Teaching English in Vietnamese public schools is one of the most common job opportunities for foreign teachers. If you’ve taken on this role, you likely have plenty of experiences—both rewarding and challenging—to share. With over a decade of experience teaching in Ho Chi Minh City’s primary and secondary schools, along with training and workshops, I’ve identified five of the most significant challenges EFL teachers face. Have you faced any? Let’s share!
1. Large and Mixed-Level Classes
One of the biggest challenges in Vietnamese public schools is the number of students in each class, typically around 45. You may be teaching multiple classes per day and you could interact with over 300 students daily and more than 1,000 weekly. This limits your ability to know each student personally. Students are grouped in original classes for English lessons, not in proficiency levels. Additionally, some students take extra English lessons in other English training centers, while others rely solely on public school instruction. So, you have to struggle with large and mixed-level classes every day.
How to Overcome:
- Understand Your Role: You’re a supplementary teacher (subject teacher) who helps the homeroom teacher by providing students with opportunities to practice skills in authentic English lessons, especially listening and speaking practice.
- Manage the Entire Class: Use interactive games and activities that cater to all students, not just 1 or 2 students at one time, ensuring that lower-level students have enough support.
- Take Notes: Take a photo of the classroom and take brief notes about student dynamics to aid in lesson planning and relationship-building.
2. Inconsistent Teaching Assistant (TA) Support
The support you receive from TAs can vary greatly. Some are university students eager to assist, while others are overworked local teachers with limited time or English proficiency. Some may actively engage, while others may sit in the back and grade papers.
How to Overcome It:
- Build Relationships: Treat your TA with respect and recognize their experience and position in the school. Small gestures, such as chatting before class or offering a coffee, can build rapport.
- Communicate Clearly: Set expectations before class and establish a game plan for their involvement.
- Be Independent: Aim to manage the class on your own and rely on TAs for specific planned situations.
3. Hot, Noisy, Crowded Classrooms with Limited Resources
Most Vietnamese public school classrooms have 45 students packed into tight rows, often without air conditioning. Noise from the streets, open windows, and nearby classes can add to the challenge. Resources may be limited to a whiteboard or chalkboard, with technology like projectors or smartboards being unreliable.
How to Overcome It:
- Dress Comfortably: Wear breathable, lightweight clothing that aligns with the school’s dress code.
- Use a Portable Speaker: If your voice struggles to project, consider investing in a microphone and speaker set.
- Incorporate Movement-Based Learning: Engage students through kinesthetic activities, chants, and interactive games to keep their focus amid distractions.
- Bring Backup Materials: Carry essential teaching supplies, such as whiteboard markers, flashcards, scratch paper, and Blu Tack, to ensure smooth lessons.
4. Commuting Between Multiple Schools
Many teachers must travel to multiple schools throughout the week, often spending 30–45 minutes commuting through crazy traffic in Vietnam. Driving in rush hour, dealing with sudden rainstorms, and navigating unfamiliar locations can be stressful.
How to Overcome It:
- Double-Check Locations: Vietnamese addresses can be tricky, so confirm your destination before leaving.
- Leave Early: Give yourself extra time to avoid rushing and reduce the risk of accidents.
- Use Ride Apps: Apps like Grab, Be and Xanh SM are convenient options if you’re not comfortable riding a motorbike.
- Consider Getting a Motorbike: If you stay in Vietnam long-term, renting or buying a motorbike can be a cost-effective solution. Be sure to obtain a Vietnamese motorbike license.
5. Last-Minute Lesson Plan Changes
A common frustration is arriving at class only to find that the assigned lesson has already been covered or changed, forcing you to improvise on the spot.
How to Overcome It:
- Double-Check Your Syllabus: Verify that you’ve read and checked the lesson plan correctly.
- Focus on Speaking Activities: Even if students have completed a unit, they can still benefit from additional practice through games and discussions. Listening and Speaking practice is always focused.
- Communicate Issues to Your Company: If lesson inconsistencies persist, notify your employer to resolve discrepancies with the school.
- Be Flexible: Always have a backup activity in mind, such as a vocabulary game to review, exercises in the workbook, or quick speaking drills.
Teaching in Vietnamese public schools presents unique challenges, but with the right mindset and strategies, it can be a rewarding experience. By adapting to the environment, building relationships, and staying flexible, you’ll not only survive but succeed in your role as an English teacher in Vietnam!
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