Phoenix Language Center

Hello!

I have just received a job offer from the Phoenix Language Center, Kiev, but I have a few concerns about its legitimacy and working practices...does anyone have any advice to give me? Does anyone know of it or of people who have worked there?

Thank you!

Hi and welcome to Expat.com ljpg!

When are you supposed to start your new job?
I hope you will obtain the correct information on the forum ;)

Regards
Armand

You never now until you receive your first pay check.

Did you have an interview with them? If you are in Kyiv now you may ask if you can talk with current or former native English speakers/teachers or sit in class.
If they do not let you - red flag.

I know its been a few months since this was posted, but if you haven't already been to Phoenix to find out for yourself, I can share a bit.

I have worked for Phoenix, and never had a problem with them. They are fairly well established in Kyiv, have a fairly good body of students. They can be a bit demanding on their teachers (professionalism, teaching ability, how well can you sustain your classroom/how satisfied are your students with you), but at the same time will invest in you if you show willingness to learn (and learn quickly). If you are a good teacher, you will have no problem with them.

In regards to pay, while I was working for them they fell into a bit of a grey zone (you were paid as a specialist 'under the table,' a practice that almost every language school did/does-- not sure how it has changed in the last two years).

Expect mostly part-time hours, evenings (12 to 18 hours a week at $15US an hour-- enough to live on but not enough to save up). Good experience though.

ELC is another school to look into. They have been around a bit longer. Not too sure where to point you for full time teaching (Denis School maybe... everything else full time demands strong credentials and experience, and I am not sure where you are on that).

Hey ,
I worked for Phoenix in the end of 2010. It was only part time for me but I really enjoyed it.
I didn't have any problems with getting paid and got along with the other teachers.
Hope you enjoy it.

Thanks for all the advice! I have been working for them for quite a fw months and everything has been satisfactory, definitely a safe bet for anyone reading this! Sorry it took me so long.