Is It Hard to Find a Teaching Job in Thailand? The Story of Teacher Jopay
When people think about teaching in Thailand, they often picture the lush mountains of the north, the bustling streets of Bangkok, or the laid-back beaches in the south. But behind every foreign teacher’s story is a personal journey filled with decisions, sacrifices, and the courage to adapt. For Jopay Romansanta, one of the longest-serving Filipino teachers in Nan province, that journey began over 15 years ago.
Jopay’s story answers a common question many Filipinos ask: “Is it hard to find a teaching job in Thailand?” Her answer is both honest and inspiring. It is not just about finding a job; it is about building a life.
She first arrived in Nan, a quiet northern province far removed from Thailand’s tourist trails, at a time when Filipino teachers were becoming more sought after for their English skills and work ethic. Getting the job was not a walk-in opportunity. It took perseverance, connections built over time, and the ability to prove her value in the classroom. Once she stepped into the role, she did not just teach English. She became part of the community.
As a transgender woman, Jopay has at times faced moments where she wondered if she would be treated differently. Yet she says she has never experienced outright disrespect from her students or colleagues. She believes this is because of the way she carries herself and the values she lives by. "Irerespeto ka naman kung karespe-respeto ka at nagbibigay ka din ng respeto sa iba" — people will respect you if you are respectable and give respect in return. This principle has been her guide in the classroom and in the community, helping her to earn trust and genuine friendship.
Over the years, Jopay has witnessed how the teaching landscape for foreigners in Thailand has changed. Schools now often require higher qualifications, more competition exists, and visa regulations have tightened. Yet she believes that for those willing to adapt, respect the culture, and commit to their students, opportunities are still there.
The documentary “Khun Kru: Life of a Filipino Teacher in Thailand” follows Jopay’s day-to-day life, from her early morning commute through Nan’s mountain roads to her heartfelt interactions with students who see her as more than just a teacher. It is a portrait of resilience, faith, and community, and a reminder that teaching abroad is not just a job but a calling that can transform both the teacher and the students.
So, is it hard to find a teaching job in Thailand? Jopay’s life suggests that while the first step might be challenging, the greater challenge and reward lie in staying, growing, and making a difference in a place you can eventually call home.
