Hello,

I have been researching for quite awhile, trying to get information about English schools in Moscow.

The problem is that everyone is quick to give stories about "their friend" who had a problem, they criticize schools, bit no one ever gives REAL first hand stories and experience.

Also, everyone criticizes the "BIG 3" language schools, but they do not offer up any advice about which schools to contact, and how they found jobs at their current schools.

I am so sick of looking that I am considering just signing a contract with LL!!!! I will have upfront accommodation and a guaranteed (although low) salary, plus support. I am really worried by all the horror stories, but they are never "personal" stories, so I do not know who to believe!

A comment like "I would stay away from them" or "They are bad news" is not constructive... Unless you give more details and advice on what new teachers should do instead ....it doesn't really help at all.

So...... If there is anyone out there willing to help me, I would very much appreciate it. I am TEFL certified, I have 1 on 1 experience and Formal classroom experience. I do not yet have my B.A. but I am working towards a degree in Linguistics and have taken many Applied Linguistics courses. I have lived in Moscow before for a semester, I have also traveled to Russia several times. I am almost fluent Russian. I know what to expect in Moscow, so I am not just a "fresh" teacher who will be shocked when I arrive and need hand-holding. I know the real-estate situation in Moscow, which is why I am so keen on finding a job with accommodation provided.

I would love to hear about your experiences. Particularly with LL.

Have any of you lived in a LL apartment? What are they like? Most importantly, what Metro stops are they at? Can you request a particular area?

Are they considerate about scheduling, or will I have to expect classes at 8:00am on one side of town and classes at 10:00pm ending on the other side of town?

I would really just appreciate some General advice from more experienced teachers. Thank you in advance for your help!

The people working for other schools don't want to give advice, because they don't want to have other teachers competing with them for the better jobs.

Wink

Seriously, just about everyone starts at one of the big 3, makes some contacts, and moves on to something better if they want to stay in Moscow.