Having already taught in Poland for two years I decided I wanted to teach and live in Krakow so as to enjoy the lifestyle of one of Europe's most picturesque and vibrant cities. The choice of language schools in Poland's ‘capital of culture' is almost as overwhelming for teachers as it is for students themselves but I can unhesitatingly recommend York School of English to EFL teachers wishing to work in a professional environment for a well-established institute.

Founded over 15 years ago by the Director of Studies, York School is one of the city's leading English language centres and is situated in a quiet quarter just north of the centre. The school buildings themselves are more reminiscent of cosy homes rather than being a collection of soulless classrooms and are well equipped with grammar reference works, dictionaries, stereos, TVs and video or DVD players. Also popular are the Internet café and multimedia library, both of which are encouraged to be used as teaching resources making lessons more dynamic and full of variety.

Teachers are expected to plan their lessons following syllabi specifically developed by the school for up-to-date course books. Levels and ages of students are wide-ranging, from Elementary to Proficiency and Young learners to Adults respectively. In addition to the great amount of experience this spectrum of learners provides teachers, the school also has a large percentage of students who are studying for Cambridge exams or business English. On a personal level, my wish to teach high level and business English was granted and has been integral to my development as a teacher.

With a view to this professional progress, York School runs workshops several times a year focusing on methodological and practical aspects of teaching, for example, on 'Anxiety among Adult learners' or 'Teaching Cambridge Speaking exams'. Students' needs are catered for, by the running of monthly clubs (conversation, writing or pronunciation), mock exams three times a year and, if this sounds like too much work, the end-of-year picnic, held this year at the exclusive Wyziernek grill on Krakow's main square.

Socialising among the 40-strong team of native and Polish teachers and admin staff is widespread and helps to generate the warm atmosphere and sense of camaraderie that adds to the enjoyment of working at York School. Levels of co-operation between staff, no matter the department, are very good.

On the one hand, the fact that York is an independent school means that teachers have a certain level of autonomy and responsibility whilst their input with regard to school policy is much valued by management; it is a school which provides opportunities for those who wish to become more involved in the running of a language school. On the other, teachers and students alike can feel assured of the highest standards in English language teaching due to York's recognition from national and international awarding bodies.

My decision to join York School two years ago was an excellent one and I am extremely happy and, indeed, proud to have worked there as a teacher and AdoS. I have no qualms whatsoever in recommending York School of English in Krakow to teachers either embarking on the start of their EFL career or to those with more experience looking for a positive environment in which to work. Good luck!

Gavyn Upham (gavynupham@yahoo.co.uk)