Just what is it ....
In less than 3 weeks I will be a pensioner. So, what shall I do with myself? I saw an ad on Neighbourly by an outfit called English Language Partners a few weeks ago. Asking for volunteers. Teaching English to new immigrants I expect. Now, I have a post-grad diploma in education (that's a bit more than an M.A. where I come from), I spent years teaching German as a Second Language to Vietnamese Boat People, I have specialist phonetics training. I am familiar with the Berlitz method.
I've taken people with no knowledge of the language through to university entrance level ....
I thought: I'll give these guys a ring. I might be able to help, I don't need extra pay ...
... well, I have barely started to introduce myself when the woman goes "Do you have a certificate in teaching English as a Second Language?"
No, I don't. (but I probably have better experience and teaching skills than many of the people working for you -- I didn't say that, though).
She just fobbed me off: "Well in that case I cannot employ you." Click.
I wasn't actually looking for EMPLOYMENT. I was offering to volunteer. This was a real Simpsons moment for me .... doh! Ah well. Sadly, I know I'd be no good at picking up trash by the roadside, my knees would not allow me. Ho hum. At times the ignorant arrogance of some Kiwis is just mind-boggling to me.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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0% Yes
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0% No
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0% Other - I'll share below
Sweet Dreams Start with the Perfect Bedtime Drink! ?✨
Bedtime rituals are better with the perfect drink! ?✨ Do you prefer warm hot chocolate, soothing herbal tea, or refreshing water? Tell us your favourite bedtime beverage and let’s get inspired for those peaceful nights! ? #Beds4U #sleep
Paint it orange with Resene for Arthritis NZ!
Buy any orange Resene testpot 60 ml at your local Resene owned ColorShop in November and Resene will donate $1 to Arthritis NZ!
The more orange testpots you buy, the more will be donated.
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