The Ida-Viru Vocational Education Center is actively looking for Estonian language teachers. The school has about 700–800 students who need intensive Estonian language instruction. This will help them study better at school.
The school director Hendrik Agur said they have already invited many teachers for job interviews. "On Tuesday, 8 teachers are coming, and more will come in the following weeks," said Agur. He added that they still need 6–7 more teachers. The teachers must be able to teach Estonian as a second language.
The teachers will receive a good salary and free accommodation. The salary is calculated based on the Ida-Viru salary coefficient. Agur said there is also a small bonus.
The school already has full-time Estonian language teachers, but they need 13 more. Teacher training lasts 8 weeks. Students study various subjects, and those who need it receive an intensive Estonian language course.
The academic director Kristi Aron said learning does not only take place in the classroom. Students also go on cultural trips to better learn Estonian language and culture. After 7 weeks, a review exam is conducted. Those who achieve a B1 level can usually continue their studies. Others continue with intensive instruction.
Last week, an Estonian language test was conducted at the school. About 500 students will now be sent for intensive study. The test showed that 65% of the students do not know Estonian well enough.
Agur said about 700–800 students do not know Estonian well enough. "We cannot teach them in Estonian if they don't understand. That's why we are making a big change. We will start teaching them Estonian," he said.
The school has a total of over 2000 students. The school has campuses in Jõhvi, Sillamäe, and Narva.