In response to the damning comments by Leena on Owen Buckland I have to say that my experience has been totally the opposite. Whilst I am not stupid enough to think that Owen does everything for the benefit of Foreign Teachers and nothing for himself, having come to China to teach by invitation from The Buckland Group I am perfectly happy that their (his) word has been kept all along the line.
I have taught for a whole year in a Senior Middle School through Buckland and subsequently in Owen College at the HQ of Buckland in Yangshuo. I have always been paid the correct salary amount on time, received the travel and airfare refunds as promised, always been made welcome back at the Buckland hostel where Buckland teachers can stay for free any time they are in or passing through Yangshuo, including free meals.
This academic year I found a post direct with a university in N.E. China where on arrival I found the living conditions well below what I expected and the working schedule onerous. What can I do except leave and break my contract. Had I still been with Buckland I know for sure he would have supported me and sorted things out. As it is I can't wait to get back to being under the Buckland umbrella. So ?, he will make money from placing me in a Buckland registered school, what do I care,? that's what he is business for, but at least I shall have someone to turn to if a problem arises and I know he will assist.
I am sorry Leena that your experience was a bad one. I can only speak for myself and say not all his recruits think he's a liar and a crook, I know many like me who will speak up for him just as there are some who hold the opposite opinion.