Vantaggi
Is a reasonable introduction to teaching English as a foreign language
A great 'stepping-stone', to go on to better things as a teacher
Svantaggi
You are not paid for any time you give for training
Expected to work Saturdays without pay
Part of the salary paid into bank, the rest paid in cash - this created a huge problem for me during Covid, as I was only paid 70% of my 'bank salary'.
10 month temporary contract - unemployed during the summer
No progression opportunities
Low pay - which is fine to gain experience, but one can earn double per hour as a good private teacher with experience
The franchiser and franchisee have completely different ideas on how they want to run things. For example, in my case, the franchiser (Hello Academy) is adamant that you must not speak Spanish in class and therefore don't need Spanish as an English native. However, the local franchisee was not happy that, at that time, I couldn't speak Spanish. The ensuing argument between the franchiser and franchisee meant I was 'the bad guy' caught in the middle.
If you're looking to gain teaching experience as a language teacher, it is worth it. If you are looking for a career or a happy work life - best avoid.