Teaching in Thailand With BFITS: Preparing Students for Success Through Language and Content

Bright Future International Training & Services (BFITS) has been a cornerstone in advancing English education in Thailand since its establishment in 2002. Serving over 25 private and public schools across the country, BFITS is dedicated to delivering modern and integrated educational programs that meet the diverse needs of Thai learners. 

BFITS is a Bridge Preferred Employment Partner that also provides a rewarding and dynamic teaching experience. Not only do participants have the opportunity to work in diverse cultural settings, but BFITS ensures that they receive comprehensive support, including all materials, a structured curriculum, and legal and financial stability.

The BFITS approach and requirements

BFITS integrates both English language instruction and subject-specific teaching across English, Math, and Science. This dual approach ensures that students not only develop strong English communication skills but also acquire critical knowledge in key academic areas.

By immersing students in an English-speaking environment, BFITS fosters language proficiency while enhancing content comprehension.

To join the BFITS program in Thailand, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Native English speaker: Applicants should hold a passport from one of the following countries: USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.
Bachelor’s degree: A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in any field is required.
Police clearance: Candidates must provide a local or national police clearance certificate.
Basic office/IT skills: Proficiency in basic office and IT skills is necessary, as classrooms are equipped with modern technology such as LCD projectors and Apple TVs. 
TEFL certificate: BFITS can support applicants in obtaining this credential from Bridge.

During the Bridge Career Fair, BFITS Assistant Director, Giselle Alano, emphasized that the organization welcomes teachers with diverse academic backgrounds – not just those focused on English.

Candidates with degrees in math, science, nursing, pharmacy, business, or finance are encouraged to apply, as BFITS provides training to help them transition into teaching subject-specific content.

As Giselle explained, “Many English language teachers make the mistake of only applying for English language teaching positions. That market is a bit oversaturated here in Thailand.” By expanding their focus beyond English, teachers can take advantage of high-demand roles in subjects like math and science while still benefiting from BFITS’s supportive environment and resources.

While BFITS primarily hires native English speakers for English teaching roles, Giselle explained that non-native speakers with strong academic backgrounds – especially in math or science – also have good prospects.

BFITS also places strong emphasis on the interview process. As Giselle explained during the Bridge Career Fair, “Candidates who stand out come prepared – with knowledge about our company, the position, and the country.”

She encouraged applicants to go beyond basic research by asking thoughtful questions and demonstrating a genuine interest in Thai culture and education. This proactive approach helps candidates make a lasting impression.

Take the first step toward teaching in Thailand – apply to BFITS now.

Enhancing student achievement through CLIL

One of the primary methodologies employed by BFITS is Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL). This approach intertwines language development with subject instruction, allowing students to absorb new ideas while refining their English skills. By integrating English instruction with subject-based learning, CLIL allows students to develop language proficiency while engaging with key academic concepts.

Rather than treating English as a separate subject, BFITS educators embed it into the curriculum of Mathematics and Science. This approach has multiple benefits:

Enhanced comprehension: Students learn English naturally as they engage with real-world topics, making the language more relevant and accessible.
Critical thinking development: CLIL encourages inquiry-based learning, where students analyze, question, and explore topics in English, fostering deeper understanding.
Confidence building: By using English in academic discussions, students become more fluent and comfortable expressing complex ideas in a second language.

CLIL encourages students to think critically, engage actively, and develop problem-solving skills that are essential for both academic and real-world success.

Bridge offers two professional development courses that dive into CLIL methodology. These can be taken individually or as a bundle, and will surely equip any BFITS teachers with more skills.

Master the CLIL approach and boost your bilingual teaching skills with Bridge’s specialized certification.

Comprehensive educational programs

BFITS offers a range of programs tailored to different educational levels and objectives:

English, Math, and Science: Textbooks, slides, and online platforms are supplied, but teachers are expected to create engaging lessons tailored to their students’ needs. You’ll deliver subject content to assigned classes based on a set schedule and adapt the provided resources for effective learning.
English Program (EP): Designed for elementary and secondary students, this program provides an academic environment where subjects like English grammar, vocabulary, the four language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing), Math, Science, Technology, Social Studies, and Health are taught using English as the medium of instruction. EP students typically study 15-18 hours with Native English Speaking (NES) teachers.
Intensive Communicative English Program (ICEP): Tailored for early childhood, elementary, and secondary students, ICEP focuses on developing practical English language skills. Students study English grammar, vocabulary, and the four language skills, typically spending 3-5 hours with NES teachers.
Communicative English Program (CEP): Aimed at secondary students, CEP emphasizes listening and speaking skills, with students typically studying 1-2 hours with NES teachers. 

Whether you’re teaching core academic subjects or focusing on communicative language skills, BFITS programs are designed to create immersive English learning environments.

This variety of programs offers teachers the chance to work with different age groups and skill levels, all while helping students build confidence and succeed in both academic and real-world settings. With structured support and room for creativity, educators can make a meaningful impact in the classroom.

Teaching opportunities with BFITS

BFITS provides a comprehensive teaching opportunity with multiple levels of support and privileges, whether you are an aspiring teacher or a seasoned educator. The organization offers a dedicated academic team that provides the curriculum, lesson plans, and teaching resources for all programs.

Additionally, BFITS ensures that teachers obtain legal work permits and visas, and offers on-time payment and year-round insurance, making the transition to living and working in Thailand seamless. 

Teachers have the opportunity to work in both private and public institutions, in urban centers like Bangkok and rural areas across Thailand. This diversity allows educators to immerse themselves in various cultural settings, enriching their teaching experiences and personal growth. 

Through interactive lessons, technology-enhanced learning, and student-centered teaching strategies, BFITS educators create engaging and dynamic learning environments. These methods make abstract concepts more accessible, ensuring students are both linguistically and academically prepared for future studies and careers.

Want to learn more about BFITS? Check out this interview with two BFITS managers.

A day in the life of a BFITS teacher

A typical school day with BFITS is both structured and fulfilling. Teachers generally arrive at school around 7:30 am, sometimes traveling by Skytrain, motorbike taxi, riverboat, or canal boat, and enjoy a quick breakfast at the school canteen.

Classes begin soon after, and on average, educators teach four lessons per day with time for prep in between. Usually, teachers work up to 20 hours per week. BFITS Thailand will provide all necessary curriculum and classroom materials.

Many schools provide free lunch, and the school day usually ends by 3:30 or 4:30 pm, leaving time to explore the vibrant social life and warm hospitality that Thailand is known for. “There’s so much to do – Thailand is very social, friendly, and warm,” Giselle shared.

Of course, teacher efforts are remunerated. English teacher contracts range from 6 to 12 months (which can be extended), and they earn up to 42,300 Thai Baht (roughly $1,245 USD) each month, with 500 THB per extra hour of overtime.

Although the salary is considered low by Western standards, keep in mind that the cost of living in Thailand is much lower. For example, the average cost of a meal in Thailand is $1.20. More information on the cost of living can be found in the following breakdown of common monthly expenses based on recent data from Numbeo:

Item	Average cost (THB)	Average cost (USD)
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Center	฿15,578	$435
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside Center	฿8,624	$241
Monthly Utilities (915 sq ft)	฿2,615	$73
Internet (60 Mbps or more)	฿583	$16
Meal in an Inexpensive Restaurant	฿100	$3
One-Way Local Transport Ticket	฿30	$0.84
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee	฿1,687	$47
Rice (1 lb)	฿20	$0.55
Chicken Fillets (1 lb)	฿42	$1.18
Potatoes (1 lb)	฿23	$0.64
Bananas (1 lb)	฿19	$0.54
Water (1.5 liter bottle)	฿17	$0.47
Cappuccino (regular)	฿69	$1.90
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle)	฿59	$1.65
Imported Beer (12 oz small bottle)	฿100	$2.80

Career growth and support at BFITS

BFITS also offers long-term growth opportunities for teachers interested in building a career in education.

“Every single manager in our company was a teacher first,” said Giselle, illustrating BFITS’s commitment to promoting from within.

Teachers can grow into positions such as head teacher or department head, or pursue professional development through mentorship and discounted Bridge TEFL courses. With robust support systems in place, educators are set up for success both inside and outside the classroom.

BFITS offers an incredible opportunity for teachers looking to gain international experience while making a meaningful impact in the classroom. With a range of positions available for English, Math, and Science teachers, BFITS provides a structured and supportive teaching environment where educators can develop professionally while inspiring students. Whether you’re an experienced teacher or new to the field, BFITS ensures a smooth transition into the Thai education system with comprehensive training, pre-developed lesson plans, and ongoing professional development.

Apply to teach in Thailand with BFITS here!