Boarding handbook 2013 2014

BOARDING HANDBOOK 2013-2014

www.regents.ac.th./bangkok

THE REGENT’S SCHOOL BANGKOK 601/99 PRACHA-UTHIT ROAD WANGTONGLANG BANGKOK 10310 TELEPHONE: +66 (0) 2 957 5777 E-MAIL: ENQUIRY@REGENTS.AC.TH WWW.REGENTS.AC.TH/BANGKOK

GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

CONTENTS The Regent’s School Bangkok................................................................................................................................ 5 Accommodation........................................................................................................................................................ 6 The Role....................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Boarding...................................................................................................................................................................... 8 The Academic Day.................................................................................................................................................... 11 Primary and Secondary School............................................................................................................................. 12 Professionalism.......................................................................................................................................................... 14 Contracts..................................................................................................................................................................... 16 Weekends/Holidays.................................................................................................................................................. 16 Pastoral care............................................................................................................................................................... 17 Health and Medical Insurance............................................................................................................................... 17 Salary and Banking................................................................................................................................................... 19 Visa Application......................................................................................................................................................... 20 Living in Thailand...................................................................................................................................................... 20 Cost of living.............................................................................................................................................................. 20 Communication......................................................................................................................................................... 21

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

WELCOME

You have taken the plunge into the depths of the Gap World. By choosing to become a member of Gap Staff at the Regent’s School, Bangkok you are embarking on a year long adventure which you will never forget! You will learn a lot, laugh a lot and make many friends that you will hopefully keep for years to come. At Regent’s, Bangkok we do not call you ‘gap students’, we value you as a members of staff, and therefore you are known as ‘Gap Staff’. You will have an important place in the School’s Community at Regent’s, Bangkok, we enjoy having you here and look forward to the close relationship we will no doubt build.

We have put this handbook together as a guide to the School, your accommodation and responsibilities, your salary, life in Thailand, as well as contact details. It also acts as a contract whereby you know what is expected of you before you even get here. We hope it is easy reading and we look forward to meeting you!

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

THE REGENT’S SCHOOL BANGKOK The Regent’s School, Bangkok is the vision and reality of its Founder and Chairman, Dr. Virachai Techavijit. He believes strongly in providing an excellent education for expat students and Thai children. Regent’s, Bangkok prides itself on its ESE (English Speaking Environment), with the students being encouraged to speak English to each other all the time. Our Boarders in particular demonstrate a fantastic approach to ESE, talking to each other in English at all times.

Dr. Virachai’s constantly growing vision has led to the development of three campuses, each with their own unique attributes. Our Campus in Bangkok has around 550 students and in the region of 60 full time boarders. Our Boarders are mostly GC (Global Connect) students, from countries such as Estonia, Romania, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Bhutan, Japan and Armenia.

Our Campus is located in the Huai Khwang district of Bangkok with excellent transport links into the City centre via the Underground (MRT) and Skytrain (BTS). Both are cheap and efficient. We have two campuses at present: the Rama 9 School Campus and the Cultural Centre Boarding Campus. Both are located on the same road about 10 minutes apart. Outside the Boarding Campus are corner shops, chemists, restaurants and a wonderful coffee shop. There are also several 7/11s and street vendors selling food and drinks. Large shopping malls, cinemas, gyms and more restaurants are all just a short taxi or underground ride away.

Our staff are mainly from the UK (around 80%) as well as from North America, New Zealand and Australia. They organise social events around the calendar which always turn out to be a great deal of fun! These include trips to Ko Samet, Pattaya and places in Bangkok.

Dr Virachai, Chairman and Founder

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

ACCOMMODATION The Gap Staff Accommodation is within the boarding house and is air conditioned. The accommodation consists of bedrooms, each shared by 2 Gap Staff with bed, wardrobe, desk etc., bathroom facilities are located on each floor and a separate student and staff social areas. Student common rooms contain a TV, DVD player, fridge, cooking facilities for snacks, crockery, utensils and a kettle. There is also a washing machine in the Boarding House which can be used for quick washes. It takes 3 x 10 baht coins, and you must supply your own washing powder and fabric softener. Please set the example and respect the area you are living in and keep it tidy and clean.

This applies to all in the Boarding House and Gap Staff Accommodation. Cleaning products should be accounted for in your weekly budget regardless of the maid service here. There are things we expect you to clean and not the maid, for example your dishes and cutlery, bathroom and kitchen surfaces.

Locally you can buy weekly shopping from a large Big C, Robinsons, Tesco Lotus and various other supermarkets.

As the accommodation is within the Boarding House, when the Boarders are in residence, the School does not permit guests to stay overnight within the boarding house. This is because all staff staying within the Boarding House must have cleared our reference checks. Visitors during the day are permitted but approval must be gained by the Head of Boarding prior to arrangements being made.

The Boarders are not present during the Christmas vacation and occasionally for other school vacations. If you would like a guest (same gender) to stay during the Christmas vacation or another vacation, please check firstly with the Head of Boarding to ensure no Boarders are present, then apply to the School Principal for permission.

We would hate for you to be disappointed by not being allowed to have a guest to visit so please do note this!

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

THE ROLE We run a 12 month Gap Staff Programme that can run from: • •

January until December August until June

The work of a member of Gap Staff is varied and interesting. Gap Staff are involved academically (providing in class support for students and teachers), in the co-curricular programme (helping to coach teams, run activities etc) and are involved in Boarding. Placement of GAP Staff is based on experience and interests. You will also play an active role in promoting the English Speaking Environment (ESE). You will be required to work at either the Primary or Secondary Campus. The work you will undertake will differ slightly in each Campus.

You will report to the Gap Staff Coordinator who will liaise with the Principal, Head of Boarding and other key members of staff as necessary. The Gap Staff Coordinator is there to support you in your role within the school.

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

BOARDING Boarding duties will be a major part of your role.

You will have duties in the Boarding House, during the week, at the weekend and at the start and ends of term.

The exact amounts of Boarding duties cannot be stated, but on average, as an example, you would normally conduct duties most days of the week and one day during the weekend. GAP Staff are usually given one full weekend off each half-term. The exact arrangements for Boarding duties are usually discussed with the Head of Boarding in response to the needs in the Boarding house during any particular year. We adjust the amount of time you are timetabled during the school day to balance the time you are on boarding duty so as not to overload you.

Boarding duty is a time when you interact with the students on a personal level. You could help them with their studies, engage in conversation, play games, i.e. monopoly, cards etc. If they are homesick or unwell, you would take particular care to show them that you understand and that you will do all you can to help them feel better.

You will also be required to supervise, or join in with them, when they are doing their evening activities each weekday evening. You are a very useful resource to these students, as you have been through the education system and you can give excellent advice.

There are usually two GAP Staff on duty together during the week in the Boarding House to assist the Boarding Staff on duty. At weekends, GAP Staff may be required to work at different times or together.

When on duty, GAP Staff are expected to seek opportunities to get involved with the Boarders. Remember, the Boarders are often shy and may be homesick, and almost all of them have English as a Second Language. You may feel shy with them at first but do make the effort to get to know them – particularly the younger ones.

Getting them to chat to you about their homes, family, country, things they like to do will build their confidence and help their English too!

The Boarding House staff would be thrilled if GAP Staff would like to organise any activities within the Boarding House for the weekends, particularly for the younger boarders in Years 6-9 e.g. Art club, Easter party, cultural fun events from a GAP’s home country, sports such as a 5-a-side football competition, table tennis competitions, any activities to promote English learning in a fun way e.g. Bingo night! Do discuss any ideas with the GAP Coordinator so it can be built into the Boarding Programme.

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

LIFE IN THE BOARDING HOUSE MONDAY-THURSDAY: DAILY ROUTINE IN THE BOARDING HOUSE

06:00

Assist Boarding Staff to wake up students! Roll call to ensure all students attend Breakfast from 06:30am onwards.

07:00

Minibus shuttles to school start.

08:20

School starts. GAP Staff on duty has time off or follows School programme.

14:30

School finishes.

14:40 - 15:40

Co-Curricular Programme.

15:40 - 16:30

Shuttle bus supervision.

17:15 - 18:00

Evening Meal.

18:00 - 20:00

Prep.

Free time for Boarders. Duty GAP staff should be available to chat to younger Boarders in English etc. Duty GAP staff should also assist where needed e.g. bedtimes etc.

20:00 - bedtime

21:00

Lights out for Year 5-7

21:30

Lights out for Years 8 and 9

22:00

Lights out for Years 10 and 11.

Years 12 & 13 may continue to work quietly at their desks.

FRIDAY – SUNDAY (WEEKENDS)

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

Life at the weekend is generally more relaxed. A range of activities are offered each weekend. Occasionally activities are compulsory. Bedtimes are approximately an hour later than before a school day.

Friday: The daily routine is similar to Monday – Thursday. However, after dinner on a Friday, there is usually a trip to the local shopping mall. This is supervised by teaching and boarding staff, including the GAP staff on duty. The responsibility of the GAP staff is to: • • • •

Act as a member of staff on the trip. Checking all Boarders are present etc.

Ensure Boarders are in groups of 3 (minimum) Escort younger boarders to preferred shops if required to do so.

Meeting Point: Every trip from school will have a designated “Meeting Point”. Staff on the trip will take it in turns to wait at the meeting point so if any boarder has a problem during a trip they will always know where to find a staff member. Duty GAP staff will also be involved with being at the meeting point.

Saturday: There is a weekend trip / activity planned for every weekend. This usually takes place on Saturday and is supervised by teaching and boarding staff including the GAP staff on duty.

GAP Staff on duty will be advised before the weekend as to who will be needed and when. Flexibility is the key here. Often one GAP will accompany a Boarders Trip and the other GAP will take over when the trip returns e.g.

(Times may vary each week).

09:00am

Breakfast. Duty GAP Staff to be present and give general assistance.

10:00am

Trip departs Boarding Campus. One Duty GAP Staff to attend.

16:30pm

Trip returns to School Campus. Different GAP Staff on Duty to assist.

17:15pm

Evening meal

17.30pm

GAP on duty to be available for swimming supervision, general activities in the Boarding House.

Sunday: Sunday is usually a quiet day. GAP Staff on duty will be advised before the weekend as to who will be needed and when. A typical Sunday looks like this: 11:00

Brunch

10:45– 17:15 Boarders free time. Boarders may wish to use Swimming Pool, Art room, Music room etc

which requires a GAP to supervise them. GAP on duty should be around to chat, play games etc.

17:15 – 18:00 Evening Meal.

18:00 – 20:00 Preparation for school.

17:30 – B/T GAP on duty to be available for swimming supervision, general activities in the Boarding House 10

GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

THE ACADEMIC DAY You will be timetabled to assist during the school day. Ultimately, the GAP Staff role is as an assistant teacher and promoter of spoken English to aid the English Speaking Environment (ESE) in the school. You will be expected to take on this role in a professional manner. Our school is a very active Round Square (RS) school and RS’ IDEALS values (www.roundsquare.org) are integrated in the main curriculum through activities and discussion. The majority of work you will be doing with the academic staff will include assisting teachers with support in lessons, supporting the ESE (English Speaking Environment), encouraging the younger ones in the swimming pool, break time and after school duties and accompanying children on excursions. You may also be given miscellaneous tasks such as helping to create displays, photocopying and helping to organise and run any sporting events such as swimming galas and sports days that need any extra help or supervision. It will be very important in your role as a member of Gap Staff that you are flexible. You may be required to: • Escort students and accompany staff out on trips or to Sporting events during the day or on a particular weekend. For example, our Gap Staff always attend the REISTA Drama Festival at our Pattaya Campus for the weekend. In the past our Gap Staff have supervised, participated and even led workshops. If you are escorting staff to Sporting events you can expect to leave school at around 09:00 or 13:45 and return around 18:00.

• Supervise and lead an after-school activity, for example, Badminton, Dance or a club that you are interested in.

• Attend and support School Events whether Cultural or Academic, in particular, Loy Krathong Performance and Musical Performances.

• Be a familiar face in the Boarding House, supporting our Boarding Students by attending functions, events and activities. For example, organising a Halloween Party.

• On weekends you will be required to do boarding duties.

You will be given non-contact periods during the week and could expect to do a maximum of 40 periods out of 50 per week (based on the Primary timetable times). This is an approximate number and will change in order to meet the needs of Boarding.

We give every member of Gap Staff one complete afternoon or morning free within the timetabled non-contacts.

We take into account the requirements made of you in Boarding and ensure that your timetables reflect this.

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

RAMA 9 PRIMARY SCHOOL The Gap staff working within the Primary School work mainly in supervising Swimming lessons, working with Early Years and Primary students who have English as an Additional Language (EAL). Gap Staff work with small groups of children under class teacher direction. You may be asked to hear children read, or to support them with a writing task. Gap staff will be given some training by the Deputy Head of Primary to help them when supporting academic lessons and the PE teacher will give support and guidance about the expectations in Swimming and PE lessons.

Gap Staff often accompany Primary children on school trips. The trip will be organised by the class teacher and the member of Gap staff will be given responsibility for a small group.

Gap Staff also undertake administrative tasks such as creating displays or making props for drama activities.

Guidance will be always be given by the teacher.

Gap staff have some input into their timetables so that they can become involved in areas of particular interest to them. If you are a good swimmer but do not enjoy art projects then you will be able to support swimming and someone else will focus on displays. If you have an interest in a particular subject such as Drama or Maths then we will try to ensure that you gain some experience of supporting in that area.

We very much appreciate the support of Gap staff in Primary and strive to make the experience as enjoyable for you as it is for us.

SECONDARY SCHOOL If you are providing in-class support you will listen to the lesson given by the teacher and then will rotate around the class, as the teacher does and help out with any questions that the students may have. Here you are a second person in the room who can understand what the teacher is saying, having read the text and can help explain in simple English to English as an Additional Language (EAL) students. Some lessons might be used for making resources or other administrative work.

Your strengths and talents will be fully utilised and you should communicate these to the Gap Staff Coordinator in order for you to have the most valuable experience. For example, if you have talent and interest in the area of the Theatre Arts then you will be assigned mostly to this department in the school, however, will also have the additional duties outlined above.

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

A TYPICAL DAY In Secondary, the day starts at 08:20 with morning registration and will end at 15:30 or 16:00 depending on after school commitments. In Primary, the day starts 08:00 and will end at 14:30 or 15:30 depending on duties and after school commitments.

You will have a full timetable that will consist of: • Around 30 lessons in the timetable per week.

• Two or Three evening duties in the boarding houses.

• One or Two after school activities per week.

Here you will run activities organised by the Activities Coordinator. This ensures there is always a responsible adult close by.

• Break time cover duties. (Up to 3 in a week) Your role here is to help promote the ESE in the school by assisting with the incentive schemes in action, mixing with the students and speaking English with them whilst they play games or hang out and by any other means that you think of – new ideas are welcome. This is an excellent opportunity for the students to try chatting informally with English speakers, something that does not happen so much in the classrooms. You are not left in charge of the playground as teachers are on duty at the same time.

• You will be posted into departments and classes depending on your interests and level of enthusiasm. There are a variety of opportunities to suit your interests. You will be expected to present yourself professionally and endeavour to do your best.

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

PROFESSIONALISM As a member of staff you are expected to behave in a professional manner at all times.

When talking to staff, parents and students you should only speak in a professional manner – if you are not sure how to react to a question from a parent or student you should pass it on to an appropriate member of staff. Do not put yourself in a position of saying or doing the wrong thing.

ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU ARE A MEMBER OF STAFF WHEN SPEAKING TO STUDENTS OF ANY AGE. DRESS CODE As is the expectation of staff and students, Gap students are expected to adhere to the Staff Dress Protocol.

Every teacher sets an example in dress, manner and personal hygiene. Our appearance should be above reproach. Below is a guide for the standard of dress we expect at The Regent’s. In general, we expect our teachers’ appearance to be modest, neat and well groomed. Whilst all school buildings, except the gymnasium, are air-conditioned, in the hot season it will be very humid so expect to make regular changes of clothing. What you need are clothes which are light, smart and easily washed and pressed. Whilst personal dress is your own prerogative, please do not be offended if the Heads of School ask you to comply with our guidelines.

This Code is provided as guidance about professional standards: FEMALES Please make sure that your neckline is high enough and your hemlines are low enough to be modest in all positions. Shoulders should be covered. Thai culture disapproves strongly of having no bra or revealing dress.

For female staff and students, bikinis are not allowed on school campus. Please ensure that you bring a one piece swimsuit with you.

Please remember that when you are on duty in the Boarding House and especially if you are accompanying Boarders’ Trips off campus that this dress code must be adhered to. The Boarders are only allowed to dress modestly when they leave school campus so it becomes very difficult if staff are not setting a good example.

Smart trousers are acceptable. Beach clothes or casual clothes are not appropriate in a teaching environment in Thailand as they are not in the UK, particularly as we base ourselves on the English educational system.

Please make sure that your neckline is high enough so as not to show cleavage and your hemlines are low enough to be modest in all positions.

Shoulders should be covered – the guidelines are • a smart, sleeveless tailored shirt or dress, which covers the shoulders is acceptable • backless attire is not acceptable • a t-shirt without sleeves is casual and not acceptable Smart tailored trousers are acceptable, either full or ¾ length.

• Hipsters, Jeans and casual trousers are not acceptable • Short skirts are not acceptable.

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

MALES Shirts should look fresh and ironed, and trousers neatly pressed. With the tropical humidity here, undershirts or vests are advised to minimise the perspiring look! A collared, preferably cotton shirts, and tie, are required during regular school hours. Visible body piercing and long hair are not acceptable for it is not possible to set a good role model to students.

MALES AND FEMALES

Footwear Flip Flops are unacceptable Tattoos should at all times be covered PE attire for males and females On days when you are teaching PE, you may come to school in suitable PE kit/track suit After school, on campus, casual wear is appropriate, provided again, that it is not revealing.

Consult the Gap Staff Coordinator if you have doubts that your attire is unsuitable.

SMOKING The Regent’s School, Bangkok has a no smoking policy throughout the school day in the “public” areas. As we are a boarding school, this effectively means there is a no smoking policy on the school premises at any time in any area where pupils might be. If you are a member of the boarding house staff, you should not smoke wherever and whenever pupils might be in your residence INTERNET USAGE The school has an Internet usage policy for during the school day which you must adhere to. Use of the Internet should at all times be appropriate and you should be aware of what other people can see you using. Networking sites such as Facebook are not to be used during the school day. Specific times can be found on the school policy.

Please do not become “a friend” of a boarder whilst you are employed as staff here.

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

CONTRACTS The Gap Staff contract is linked to the ‘GAP Staff Pledge’. A violation of any of the rules stated there will result in disciplinary action being taken. There are a number of issues of a serious nature that will result in instant dismissal.

These are listed below: • • • • • • • • •

Inappropriate relationships between Gap Staff and teaching staff Inappropriate relationships between Gap Staff and student Member of the opposite gender brought onto campus without prior permission given Possession or use of drugs Alcohol consumption in the Gap accommodation or Boarding House Theft Inappropriate internet use Entering certain areas of Pattaya or Bangkok that are deemed inappropriate Inappropriate behaviour at the discretion of the management

Gap Staff are expected to abide by these rules and work in a professional manner as expected by any person in this profession. The Board and management will not accept any breaking or bending of these rules. A “Positive Role Model” is what you are expected to be.

WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS You will certainly have some weekends off during the term, to be planned and agreed with your Boarding House Parents. You will also be able to take holidays over the Christmas period and enjoy some time off during halfterms and the Easter Break. Some boarders are unable to travel home during half-terms and the Easter break so a rota is usually the fairest way of ensuring residential boarding staff all have some time off. You may find yourself supporting one or more of the many trips that the school runs. These are usually exciting and enjoyable experiences for all who take part. Additional time off is allowed in exceptional circumstances, which must again be agreed with the Gap Staff Coordinator and the Principal.

Flights Many of the Boarders live overseas and so the GAP Staff have a really important role in assisting the Boarding Staff by meeting Boarders as they arrive in Thailand at the start of each term. Also, as Boarders go home, again, it is usually the GAP staff who assist by taking them to the airport. Training will be given for this role.

As much notice as possible will be given to GAP Staff as to when flights are arriving / departing but sometimes it is at fairly short notice. This should be taken into account when arranging weekends away or holidays during half term and end of term breaks.

As many Boarders could be leaving over a short space of time at the start/end of each term, GAP staff are requested to be flexible about their hours for that time as although 2 GAP staff may be on duty for a particular day, it may be that other GAP staff are also needed to assist in escorting the Boarders. Be prepared that some flights arrive very early in the morning and some flights depart late at night.

Public Holidays Public holidays are treated as weekend days in Boarding so we usually have the same staffing in place as for the weekends in case we run any trips that day. The Head of Boarding will communicate their needs to you in advance. Please be aware of this.

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

PASTORAL CARE Most Gap Staff enjoy their time in the Boarding House, and living in Thailand. Serious problems are uncommon.

However, life away from home can take some time to get used to so please don’t worry, talk to us.

The Gap Staff Coordinator and Boarding House staff are always ready to listen and give helpful advice and support, no matter how small or difficult the problem seems to be. Often the problem can be solved easily if you share your concerns with someone else.

HEALTH AND MEDICAL INSURANCE There is always someone on hand if you are not well or have had an accident. There are two school nurses on duty during school hours. Outside school hours, go to the Boarding Staff for help and advice. Please tell somebody if you are not feeling well. You should contact the Gap Staff Coordinator if you will be absent during the school day or are feeling ill. Please make sure you have full medical insurance from home. Please note the school’s medical insurance only covers accident related medical treatment, however additional medical insurance is available from the school’s administration office at an extra cost.

If you are taken to hospital, one of the Boarding Staff will accompany you. In Thailand it is common practice to go to a hospital when you need to see a doctor, so telling your parents you have been rushed into hospital may evoke panic if you have a minor illness or condition. You will be given medication by the doctor and will usually return to the school if it is something minor. You may have to stay overnight if your condition is more serious. If you are unable to communicate with your parents because you are too ill, we will of course, contact them.

If you are taking any medication please make this known to the Boarding Staff. We need to know if you have any allergies or medical conditions.

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

The Regent’s School, Bangkok provides medical insurance for your stay in Thailand. Please see the table opposite for details of the cover provided.

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

SALARY AND BANKING On your arrival a Thai bank account will be set up into which your salary will be paid. There are banks near to school and you should also get an ATM card. ATM machines are easily accessible in Thailand and most will also accept international cards. Check your card from your home country has a CIRRUS or PLUS symbol to ensure it will work in Thailand. Your Thai ATM card cannot be used on the internet to make purchases unless you are making a transfer through online banking. If your home ATM account doesn’t have these symbols it would be advisable to obtain one, similarly a credit card with a reasonable limit is reassuring especially for travelling in countries like Laos and Cambodia where there are no ATM’s and Vietnam where they are only found in the capitals. Thai banking does not have EFTPOS therefore cash is the easiest option.

Your remuneration for all your hard work follows the pay incentive scheme below.

1st Month 2nd Month 3rd Month 4th Month 5th Month 6th Month 7th Month 8th Month 9th Month 10th Month 11th Month 12th Month Total Average per month

Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb March April May June July

10, 000 10, 000 10, 000 11, 000 12, 000 12, 000 12, 000 12, 000 13, 000 13, 000 13, 000 16, 000 144, 000 12, 000

11,000 per month which includes 1,000 per month towards the 3,000 deposit

First pay rise

Second pay rise

Last pay including the deposit returned

The deposit taken over the first three months is used to cover any bills that may be outstanding at the end of your contract. It is also there as a retainer, or an end of season bonus. If you do not finish your contract, you will lose this deposit.

If your contract runs from January to December, you will be paid 60% of base salary during the months of July and August. The remaining 40% from each month will appear in the September salary. Furthermore, if you are on a 6 month contract you will receive the first pay rise but not the second pay rise. You will still receive the 3, 000 Baht deposit upon finishing your contract.

Full board and accommodation is provided during term time, you will need to submit requests to stay during the holiday periods, no later than 1 month in advance This all goes towards an attractive package. You should, however, be aware that some savings would be very useful if you intend to travel each holiday, and have a very enjoyable lifetime experience.

Please be advised that you should bring enough money to last you until your first pay check; this could be up to 6 weeks, depending on when you start. Contact the school for more details when you know your start date.

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

VISA APPLICATION Gap Staff are required to get a Non-Immigration Type Education Visa before coming to Thailand. This can be obtained from your relevant embassy or consulate. You will also be required to present a letter to the embassy detailing your training at the School. This will be forwarded to you with your Gap Staff Contract or soon after.

LIVING IN THAILAND Thailand is the land of smiles, characterised by the friendly nature of the Thai people. They have a very high respect for the Royal Family here and it is against the law to say anything about them that could be deemed as insulting.

You will be given more information about Thai culture when you start at the school and if you have any questions please ask. It is of great benefit to try and learn some basic Thai when you are here. It makes getting around much easier and also the local people really appreciate westerners who try and communicate with them in Thai.

COST OF LIVING The cost of living in Thailand is comparatively cheap, although this can depend on your needs. Imported goods and foods are expensive, but local products are cheap. You can live as cheaply as you wish in Thailand.

Exchange rates are constantly changing so it is best to keep up to date with the exchange rate to your local currency online. A good exchange website is www.xe.com/ucc

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GAP STAFF HANDBOOK

COMMUNICATION The School and Boarding House provide excellent communication facilities, with LAN wireless set up in the Boarding House. The wireless system enables you access to the internet if you have your own computer. The school has 3 ICT suites where you may access the internet.

Dr. Virachai Chairman School: 0066 (0)2 690 3777 ext 333 Mobile: 0066 (0)818323555 chairman@regents.ac.th Martin Kneath Principal School: 0066 (0)2 690 3777 ext 101 Home: 0066 (0)2 271 7246 Mobile: 0066 (0)832923578 Principal-bkk@regents.ac.th Skype martin-regents Khun Miki Principal’s Office Manager School: 0066 (0)2 690 3777 ext 101 Mobile: 0066 (0) 898933232 Principalpa-bkk@regents.ac.th Kirk Wadsworth Head of Boarding and Gap Coordinator Mobile: 092 275 2699 Kirk.wadsworth@regents.ac.th The School address is: The Regent’s School CC Campus 592, Pracha Uthit Road, Huai Khwang, Bangkok. 10310 THAILAND 0066 (0)2 690 3777 (Boarding house extension number) 226 (Boys) or 102 (Girls) www.regents.ac.th We look forward to welcoming you to The Regent’s School, Bangkok.

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