Teaching Beyond Borders: Jay Encarnacion teaching English in Thailand

Teaching English in a foreign country might be a challenge for some, but for Filipino teacher Jay Encarnacion, it is an opportunity to share his culture, bridge language gaps, and leave a lasting impact far beyond the classroom.

He used to teach music, arts, and health to indigenous students in Bukidnon, a province in the southern Philippines. After eight years of dedicated service, he traded his familiar surroundings for a new adventure, packing his bags and heading to Thailand for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Leaving his son and family was never an easy decision for Jay, but he felt the need to take a leap of faith for a better future.

“My experience here has molded me to become more productive. It has contributed to my professional growth, personal development, and yes, even financially," Jay said.

Finding Freedom and Acceptance

Admittedly, teaching English is not Jay’s strongest suit, but with the support of his school, he found the confidence to teach the language, even though it’s not his own.

One of the most moving moments of Jay’s teaching career occurred during Wai Kru Day, also known as Teacher's Day. He vividly recalls the first time his students knelt in front of him and offered flowers.

“I cried. It touched my heart deeply. Here in Thailand, it feels like they elevate you to such a high position of honor. It made me feel like a king,” he added.

For Jay, that respect is not just a formality—it’s a reminder of the impact he’s making in his students’ lives. It also reflects the deep respect Thai society holds for teachers, a source of personal fulfillment for him.

Beyond the classroom, Thailand has been a place of acceptance for Jay, where he can fully express himself. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Jay has found a welcoming environment in Thailand, something he deeply appreciates.

"Here in Thailand, I spread my wings like a butterfly," he said.

Bridging the Language Gap

Jay teaches at a primary school in Thailand, where he has been shaping young minds for the past two years. In his time there, he has observed how the English language can intimidate Thai students, who sometimes struggle with grammar and pronunciation.

“I ask my students, 'How are you?' and they confidently say, 'I am fine, thank you.' But when I ask, 'How are you today?' they can’t answer. The word ‘today’ confuses them,” Jay explained.

To overcome these barriers, Jay incorporates videos and interactive materials into his lessons. These tools help make English less daunting and more engaging for his students.

Thailand's 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results revealed a significant drop in student performance across key subjects. The country ranked 58th in mathematics and science and 64th in reading, marking its worst results since joining the assessment in 2001.

Experts suggest that this drop, particularly in reading, aligns with a broader global trend of declining educational outcomes, largely influenced by disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the 6th National PISA Committee Meeting, Education Minister Pol Gen Permpoon Chidchob outlined a plan to enhance Thailand's PISA performance ahead of the 2025 assessment.

Key initiatives include additional exercises for students aged 15 and extensive training for teachers, with over 22,000 currently enrolled in online courses. Permpoon stressed the importance of collaboration among educational agencies to inspire students to meet international standards and improve overall educational quality.

“PISA tests are already considered to have international quality. We are all part of a mechanism to manage them systematically and appropriately in the context of Thai education to develop the quality of learning together,” said the minister.

While the challenge of bridging the language gap may seem daunting for educators, Jay remains steadfast in his commitment to help his students succeed.

"Working as a teacher requires dedication, passion, and heart," Jay shares.

"You don't just work for the salary—you mold students."

With dedicated teachers like Jay at the forefront, Thailand is steadily making strides in its quest to improve English proficiency and equip students with the skills they need for the future.