Professional Documents
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Graduate S Guide To Teaching and Travelling Abroad
Graduate S Guide To Teaching and Travelling Abroad
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Commissioned by:
HOME 2010/11
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TEFL140 ANYWHERE !
Contents
1 2
Opportunities
TEFL Opportunities for Graduates Graduate Opportunities Worldwide Worldwide TEFL Requirements 5 7 8
Training
TEFL Training for Graduates Which TEFL Course is Right for You? Online TEFL Courses Classroom TEFL Courses Combined TEFL Courses Trinity and CELTA Courses Grammar Quiz Specialist TEFL Training 11 13 14 14 15 15 16 18
Finding Work
How to Find a TEFL Job Creating a Good TEFL CV Creating a Good TEFL Cover Letter Finding Work Yourself Finding Work With Recruitment Agencies Types of Teaching Institutions Arriving Overseas How Will TEFL Help Your Career? 21 22 24 26 28 29 31 34
Destinations
Where Can TEFL Take You? North Asia South East Asia Western Europe and the Med Central and Eastern Europe Central and South America The Middle East Africa The Indian Subcontinent TEFL Glossary A Few Last Words Some Space for Your Notes 37 38 43 47 54 57 61 65 67 70 72 73
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Opportunities
1 Opportunities
TEFL Opportunities for Graduates Graduate Opportunities Worldwide Worldwide TEFL Requirements
5 7 8
Enjoy!
Caption
1 Opportunities
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1 Opportunities
Siobhans Story
Siobhan Torrens took an i-to-i TEFL course after graduating. Her course took her all the way from Southampton to China I arrived here in China in October 2009, so Ive been here almost a couple of months now. This trip started way back in May. I was nearing the end of my dissertation which was about how to teach programming when I decided that I needed a break from computing. I love travelling so I looked at jobs where I could go abroad. I remembered thinking about teaching but I didnt want to teach in a school in England or spend a year training to find out that I didnt like it. The solution was simple - I decided to teach English as a foreign language.
Siobhan Torrens
There are hundreds of websites dedicated to TEFL jobs. Its estimated that there are over 20,000 new TEFL jobs listed each month and one of the best known sites eslcafe.com can have over 2,000 listings at any given time. As a graduate youre in a great position to find work overseas and youll find it easy to get working visas for some of the most lucrative TEFL markets in the world, such as the Middle East, Japan and South Korea. However, in some places the demand for TEFL teachers is so huge that many schools will employ teachers with no teaching qualifications or degree. This does depend on the country, the school and the individual employer you may need to be qualified or degree educated to get a working visa in some countries. Also, the question of whether you want to teach without some training needs serious consideration (see page 11) as does whether youd want to work for a school that has such low standards that theyd employ a teacher with no experience and no training.
*British Council Learning. August 2009. www.britishcouncil.org/learning-faq-the-english-language.htm
1 Opportunities
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1 Opportunities
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Rozels Story
Rozel Le Cornu is an i-to-i Teach in China intern. She headed East after graduating and had an amazing time Sometimes bubbles of joy and excitement just cannot be contained and I begin to smile, or jump up and down, or laugh or all three simultaneously! I get moments like this often here, like just now, walking back from the school canteen. I hear the cry of Rozel! followed by a small Chinese girl running towards me, arms outstretched for a hug. Then after talking to her, I continue walking to have one of my grade 3 boys literally hurtle towards me, hug me, take my hand and then spin around with the biggest smile on his cheeky face! Wow, Im going to miss this place when I head home!
Rozel Le Cornu
1 Opportunities
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Training
TEFL Training for Graduates Which TEFL Course is Right for You? Online TEFL Courses Classroom TEFL Courses Combined TEFL Courses Trinity and CELTA Courses Grammar Quiz Specialist TEFL Training
11 13 14 14 15 15 16 18
2 Training
10
2 Training
11
2 Training
Nihas Story
I graduated in 2009 but found it hard getting a job, which led me to i-to-i. I then decided to do a TEFL course to gain further teaching experience and to explore new opportunities and challenges that I might not get a chance to do normally. Im currently signed up for the China Internship and I know that it will bring me new prospects, new friends and help me to learn more about myself and other cultures. Its very exciting to know that a TEFL course can take you anywhere in the world, a chance that you might not get in other careers.
Niha Chaudry
12
TEFL Tip
As a rule of thumb, the more hours of study you do, the better your prospects of finding work overseas! 2 Training
13
Pros
l l l l Study whenever suits you Inexpensive Study from anywhere on the planet In-depth theoretical study
Cons
l l l No face-to-face contact with tutors and other TEFL students No teaching practice There are some dubious online course providers so choose carefully
Pros
l l l 2 Training l The best classroom courses are respected worldwide Meet TEFL tutors and other TEFL students Can be a fun way to learn Can include peer teaching experience
Cons
l l l l Theres no official worldwide accreditation body, so check the company thoroughly Course content can be superficial No teaching practice with real students Little attention to language and grammar analysis
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Pros
l l l l l In-depth language and grammar study Practical face to face learning Up to 140 hours of study Meet TEFL tutors and other TEFL students The best ones are respected worldwide
Cons
l l No teaching practice with real students Theres no official accreditation body, so check the company thoroughly
Pros
l l l l l High prestige Graduates can use it to teach in English speaking countries Independently audited and accepted worldwide Practical teaching content Teach real students and get feedback
Cons
l l l l l Very intensive Very expensive Can be stressful Inflexible delivery model Youll need to take a month off to study 2 Training
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I live in a big house now. Its the best house that I have ever lived in. a) subject b) object c) possessive noun I live in a big house now. Its the best house that I have ever lived in. a) adverb b) verb c) adjective I live in a big house now. Its the best house that I have ever lived in. a) preposition b) article c) adjective I live in a big house now. Its the best house that I have ever lived in. a) quantifier b) adjective c) article I live in a big house now. Its the best house that I have ever lived in. a) adjective b) verb c) article
I live in a big house now. Its the best house that I have ever lived in. a) adjective b) article c) noun I live in a big house now. Its the best house that I have ever lived in. a) present perfect b) present simple c) past simple I live in a big house now. Its the best house that I have ever lived in. a) superlative b) comparative c) relative clause I live in a big house now. Its the best house that I have ever lived in. a) passive b) conditional c) relative clause
2 Training
10 I live in a big house now. Its the best house that I have ever lived in. a) past simple b) present perfect c) past perfect
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10 out of 10 Youre a grammar genius. The world of TEFL is missing out every day youre not teaching. Get yourself a TEFL qualification, book your plane ticket and get yourself a teaching job as soon as possible.
2 Training
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Grammar Awareness
Didnt get a great score on the Grammar Quiz? This is the course for you!
Teaching One-to-One
Useful if you want to make loads of money as a private TEFL tutor!
Leighs Story
After graduating with a Bachelor of Science and spending a year as a laboratory technician, something that I had hated from day one, I decided there has to be something more. I heard about i-to-i TEFL courses by chance through a travel agent while I was looking at options for a gap year. I realised this could be a way of fulfilling my dream of travelling to Eastern Europe as well as being a viable career option! With nothing to lose and everything to gain, I threw myself at it and found that it was a lot of fun and gave me the confidence and tools to get out there and do it. I start my new TEFL job in the Ukraine in 3 weeks!
Leigh Turnbull
2 Training
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Finding Work
How to Find a TEFL Job Creating a Good TEFL CV Creating a Good TEFL Cover Letter Finding Work Yourself Finding Work With Recruitment Agencies Types of Teaching Institutions Arriving Overseas How Will TEFL Help Your Career?
21 22 24 26 28 29 31 34
3 Finding Work
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Many employers choose their staff a few months before theyre needed, so most schools advertise between April and July for jobs starting in September. So if you want to land yourself a job overseas these are usually the best times to start looking.
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TEFL Tip
Key resources
For TEFL CV tips: www.tefl.net/esl-jobs/resume-tips.htm For suggestions regarding tricky issues such a lack of experience: http://susanireland.com/resumework.htm
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KEY SKILLS
Qualified and experienced TEFL teacher Coordinator of sports and activity programs
QUALIFICATIONS
2009 2008 TEFL Certificate i-to-i Melbourne Bachelor of Arts (Major: History) Monash University Melbourne
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Jan-Jul 2009 Mar-Oct 2008 Jul-Nov 2007 TEFL Teacher, Universal English College, Kyoto Teaching Conversational English at all levels Teaching Business English to executives Organising out-of-class language activities Activities Officer, Student Activities Committee, Monash University Planned and managed sports clubs and events Designed promotional materials and checked for errors Completed records in a timely and accurate manner Freelance Tutor Tutored high school students in English and History
INTERESTS
Japanese language & culture; sport & outdoor activities
REFEREES
Professor Jane Scott History Department Monash University jane.scott@monash.edu.au (+613) 9275 2978 Mr Tim Michaels Tutor i-to-i TEFL Certificate tim_michaels_1978@hotmail.com (+613) 9352 3998
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Key resources
Useful advice for letters and CVs www.eltworld.net/blog/2009/04/6-simple-reasons-why-your-tefl-resume-sucks 3 Finding Work For more ideas and the difference between post and email etc http://jobsearch.about.com/od/jobapplications/job_applications.htm
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20 July 2009
Dear Ms Wakita This is an application for the position of English Teacher, as advertised on www.eslcafe.com. I am a qualified and experienced English teacher. I have an i-to-i TEFL Certificate, and have been working for six months as a TEFL teacher at the Universal English College, Kyoto. In addition, I have designed and organised sports and activity programs. While at university I worked for the Student Activities Committee, coordinating a number of sports clubs for students. I would be very grateful for the opportunity to discuss my application further. Please find my resume attached. Yours sincerely
J.Baldwin
Janet Baldwin
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Daniels Story
I took my TEFL course after graduating; I was stuck in a dull, well-paid job, dreaming of doing something more exciting with my life. My sister was teaching in South Korea, and a couple of months after receiving my certificate I went to visit her. I enjoyed visiting Seoul and seeing the lifestyle that my sister lived so much that I flew home to quit my job and a month later flew back to find a teaching position. I had several interviews with schools and accepted a job on New Years Eve!
testimonial
Daniel Deacon
Useful Resources
Newspapers and publications
Tuesday: TEFL Classifieds in the Guardian Education section Thursday: Jobs pages in The Independent Friday: The Times Educational Supplement
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Useful Resources
Check any of the recommended job sites on the previous page, most of the top recruitment agencies advertise on them.
3 Finding Work
Pauls Story
Tokyo, Japa n
After graduating all I had was a degree with no idea what to do next. By doing the 120hr TEFL course it not only meant I was now able to teach English with the newly learnt skill and know how but also see the world. I have been able to use my TEFL qualification and my degree to get a job in Japan. My adventure has only just begun, who knows what will happen now that the world is truly my oyster.
Paul Dixon
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Summer Programmes
Summer programmes may be affiliated with a language school, academy or even a public or private institution. Others are businesses that run only during the summer months and offer programmes both in the students home country and/or abroad. These programmes are usually set up to offer English classes in the morning and sports or social activities in the afternoon. Teachers are usually required to organise and take part in these afternoon activities. These schools can also be residential.
International Schools
International schools are usually private institutions with a mixed population of both expatriate and local children. Since these schools are usually accredited with different national and international educational organisations or government offices, they may have stricter hiring policies. In most cases, they will require a PGCE, QTS or State Board Teacher Certification for a full-time position. However, they may offer contracts for part-time work or extracurricular English classes and in countries where there is a shortage of English teachers a TEFL certificate will often be sufficient for a full-time teaching position.
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Universities
Work at a university is usually better paid but harder to come by. It is often offered on a short-term or course-by-course basis. Part of the reason for this is that most universities require higher degrees of their university lecturers. And even these higher degrees usually need to be officially translated and evaluated by a governing body before a longer term contract can be offered.
Service Schools
Service schools are for children of people in the military services (often primary and junior age). As these schools usually follow the official curriculum of whatever country they serve, teacher certification is usually required.
Expatriate Schools
Expatriate schools are schools run in a similar way to schools in the UK or the US. Like international schools, they are usually accredited with national or international educational organisations and tend to have stricter hiring policies.
Private Teaching
3 Finding Work Working for yourself can be very lucrative (as its often cash-in-hand) though it can be unreliable. Work is found through word-of-mouth, local advertisements and recommendations. It is usually easy to find work as a private teacher if you are in a place that lacks native English speakers and the demand for English is high.
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Arriving Overseas
Once all the training, job hunting and organising is done and dusted, its time to get packed, organise your going away party, jump on the plane and head overseas. These hints and tips should come in handy. What To Take With You
The general rule when packing to teach abroad is to pack what you think you need, then get rid of half of it and the chances are youll still be taking too much! The majority of things you need can generally be bought when you arrive in country, so try to avoid over packing. Do some research on the area you will be living in and make sure you only take clothes that are suitable for the climate for the time of year youll be there. A good blog to check out for travelling light is www.onebag.com. Another tip is to make sure you think about what is acceptable teaching attire. For instance, teachers in China are given a lot of respect, so make sure you cover up and stick with neat, tidy outfits and you wont go too far wrong! A handy tip for teaching abroad is to be prepared! Take a notebook full of classroom activities and games and the age groups or levels you think they are suitable for (a reputable TEFL provider should be able to provide with a few of these). Flashcards, photographs and coloured pencils are also a few things that you might find useful, and are still small enough to stash in your suitcase! One thing you might want to consider taking is a laptop, which is not only a great way for keeping in touch with friends and family from back home, but really useful for creating lesson plans and activities while youre in country.
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Visas
Asia in particular provides so many opportunities to teach abroad and certain countries such as China and South Korea are really developing now. I think theyll be crucial in terms of the world economy later on, so its exciting to think that we can get involved in that. Id really recommend this career path to graduates, as its so easy for us now to get up and go! What really appeals to me with TEFL is that youre able to live somewhere and actually meet local people and experience something a lot deeper than a tourists perception of a place.
testimonial
Kelly English
Culture Shock
Immersing yourself in a new culture and surrounding yourself with the unfamiliar can be unbelievably rewarding, but if youre not prepared it can also give you a nasty case of culture shock! Knowing what to expect when you arrive can be the best way to protect yourself. So make sure you research your country well before leaving home, whether it be learning some of the lingo to help you get by or researching your local neighbourhood. Once youre out there, make an effort to explore the area and make new friends, you never know, you might find someone else who feels the same way! If youre feeling homesick, try to take it one day at a time, things can only get better! Remember to stay in touch with people from home, take advantage of sites like Chalkboard the network for TEFLers abroad (www.tefl-chalkboard.com), and Facebook (www. facebook.com) to keep in touch with friends and family. And if youre feeling down, just remind yourself that everyones just a phone call away. Check out the following article for some more top tips: http://www.tefl-chalkboard.com/travel-guides/181-How-to-Cope-With-Culture-Shock-While-Teaching-EnglishAbroad
Where to start? There are more types of visas in the world than there are people living in China! Well, maybe not quite that many, but the visa application process can be pretty complicated if you dont know where to begin. But dont panic, your new employer should be able to guide you through the application process. Watch out! Any TEFL employer that recommends you work on a tourist visa is probably not a credible employer, as this is illegal. There are thousands of TEFL websites out there, so make sure to check on the internet for more information regarding visas and employers the last thing you want is to be banned from your dream destination due to working illegally!
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Money
While there are some initial costs that need to be taken into consideration when planning your move, the cost of living in most TEFL destinations will be a lot lower than at home. However, youll need to think about the following costs. Unless accommodation is provided by your school, youll usually have to put a deposit down, so make sure you have enough money to pay around two months rent upfront. Dont forget, youll probably need enough money to get you by until your first pay day. If you work out what you might need to pay for before your first pay check arrives, you should have no problems.
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How Will TEFL Help You When You Get Back Home?
Teaching English as a Foreign Language after graduation can improve your job prospects and give you loads of transferable skills that are in demand in the domestic jobs market. So, even if youre not thinking of teaching as a longterm career, spending time teaching overseas can be really beneficial to your future employability. Improve Your Communication Skills
When you teach overseas youll spend much of your time teaching in front of a class or preparing lessons. This will improve your communication skills and your confidence in presenting to a group, both of which are really useful in all forms of business. And because youll probably be teaching in a non-English speaking country, youll also learn to communicate effectively with people who dont speak your language - a really useful skill if youre planning on a career in multinational business.
International Networking
While youre overseas youll cross paths with people from all walks of life: from foreign tourists and backpackers to local businessmen, university professors and government officials. If you make the effort to stay in touch, theres every possibility that something may come of it. Life throws up all sorts of opportunities, its just a question of recognising them and using them to your advantage. 3 Finding Work
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A quick question! If you were an employer, whose CV would impress you more? A university graduate with a 12 months unrelated experience in a junior role in the UK or a graduate whos a fully qualified English teacher with proven presentation and communication skills and 12 months experience of living and working overseas? For most employers its a pretty obvious choice.
Destinations
Where Can TEFL Take You? North Asia South East Asia Western Europe and the Med Central and Eastern Europe Central and South America The Middle East Africa The Indian Subcontinent
37 38 43 47 54 57 61 65 67
1 Opportunities
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Asia
ica fr A
S. America
4 Destinations
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North Asia
Why Choose North Asia? Possibility of saving money in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong Good teaching packages in China (airfare, accommodation, travel bonus)
l l
l l l
Private schools & universities Enormous demand in China and South Korea Not so much in Japan (after recession and the collapse of Nova, the largest private English teaching company in Japan)
l l
Private schools: year-round Universities: Japan/South Korea/Taiwan before start of semester in Aug/Feb, China/HK before start of semester in Sep/Feb
Challenges l l l 4 Destinations l l Conservatism Sexism Stories of badly managed schools Stories of bad agents Political sensitivities
Solutions l l l l l Dont fight it - first impressions are crucial (e.g. dress, respectful manner) Status as teacher and foreigner helps Do research (e.g. teacher forums) No need for an agent, go to schools directly Avoid them
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China
Types of Work l l l l l l Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: Living expenses: Official Requirements l
Ni hao!
Huge demand Government schools and normal (teacher training universities) Private language schools (for adults, students and children) Chain private schools (English First, Shane, Wall Street etc) Lots of opportunities for TEFL certified graduates Foreign campuses
Employment visa (Z Visa). Need visa notification from an authorised Chinese employer Degree preferable Such demand that schools may not require a degree stress your experience as an alternative. Many expats find work on a tourist visa and the school arranges the employment visa while you remain in the country.
Insider Information l l
Hong Kong
Types of Work l l l
Lay ho!
Strong demand for teachers willing to sign one-year contracts Most demand at private schools with children Part-time teaching on top of a full-time job especially lucrative
Official Requirements l l l Degree Working visa Working holiday visa available for 18-30 year olds from Australia Anything to sell your expertise is useful TEFL/TESOL certificate, experience with children. 4 Destinations
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Insider Information l
Japan
Konnichi wa!
Types of Work l Demand for English teachers exists but less because of the recession, and competition for work after the collapse of Nova l Numerous private schools and chains (e.g. GEOS & ECC) l Conversation classes l Private tutoring (especially after making contact, e.g. while working at a school) l Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme (JET) when you work as an assistant in a junior or senior high school (must have degree and be under 40) Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: Living expenses: Official Requirements l l Work visa sponsored by employer Degree Enter Japan on a 90-day tourist visa and look for work. Once youve agreed your contract, your employer will arrange your work visa. We do not advise that you work until your visa is finalised, but many teachers choose to, and schools may call it training. You then need to apply to an embassy outside Japan (e.g. Seoul). You can enter Japan on a cultural visa for study, which allows you to work up to 20 hours per week.
Insider Information l l
South Korea
Types l l l l l
Annyong hashimnikka!
of Work Huge demand for a English teachers Most work opportunities are teaching young children and adolescents Private hagwons (language schools) in cities Private tutoring (especially after making contact, e.g. while working at a school) English in South Korea Program (EPIK), similar to JET, which places native speakers in schools & education offices
Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: 4 Destinations Living expenses:
Official Requirements l l l Need E-1 Visa (for large schools) or E-2 Visa (as conversation instructor) sponsored by employer Evidence of fluency in English (if youre not from an English-speaking country) Degree Most teachers recommend job hunting on the ground to find better schools and conditions.
Insider Information l
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Taiwan
Types of Work l l l l
Ni Hao!
Huge demand for teachers willing to sign one-year contracts Most work is with children in private language schools and cram schools. Seem willing to sponsor teachers Government schools often advertise Private tutoring (especially after making contact, e.g. while working at a school)
Official Requirements l l l Working & residency permit, only obtainable with a one-year contract Bachelors degree with TEFL/TESOL certificate Passports only from English-speaking countries You can enter on a 60-day Visitor Visa, and then apply with a signed contract.
Insider Information l
Key resources
China www.eslcafe.com/jobs/china www.tefljobs.cn Hong Kong www.hkjobs.com Japan www.eltnews.com www.jobsinjapan.com
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4 Destinations
Honors Story
When I first decided to teach in China, I wasnt thinking about how it would boost my future career. The idea of experiencing life in a different culture and meeting lots of new people was enough to sell a few months in the Peoples Republic to me. But in between the teaching and exploring, something rather unexpected happened: I managed to massively boost my confidence, public speaking and communication skills, not to mention just grow up a bit. And although I realised teaching wasnt the long-term career for me (Im way to impatient!), the skills I gained have stayed with me, and my time in China never fails to impress employers. They like that Ive worked (and survived) in another country, as well as the fact that its made me a more rounded and independent individual. I reckon it was certainly the deciding factor with my current employer. Honor Baldry
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l l
Many jobs in private schools (but lower pay than North Asia) Jobs available teaching all ages of students
NB Its very difficult to find work in The Philippines and the Indian Subcontinent (as most students learn English at school). Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei source teachers from Britain through official channels
Times of Year?
Year-round, especially school holidays, when many secondary and university students take extra English classes (Thailand midMar to mid-May)
Challenges l l Schools may insist on a British or American accent First impressions are very important bad for teachers to lose face
Solutions l l Sell your different accent as international Dress smartly with a professional resume and references
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Indonesia
Types of Work l l l Medium demand
Selamat siang!
Official Requirements l l l l l No degree required Tourist visa is 90 days max For longer work and stay (VITAS) permit you need sponsorship Passports only from English-speaking countries TEFL course very useful Authorities are very strict about visa regulations. However, schools like English First generally arrange VITAS for you.
Insider Information l l
Thailand
Types of Work l Strong demand, especially in cities other than Bangkok e.g. Hat Yai, Chiang Mai and Songkhla l Chain schools l Small private schools l Many opportunities with universities, teachers colleges and private business colleges l Private tutoring (especially after making contact, e.g while working at a school) l Most schools source teachers locally rather than arranging jobs in advance Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: 4 Destinations Living expenses: Official Requirements l l l Degree and TEFL certificate Teachers license, working permit, and one year working visa For work at a university/college, you need a bachelors degree in Education + Thai cultural awareness course OR any bachelors degree + Thai education exam Many EFL teachers in Thailand teach on a tourist visa but this is illegal and there is threat of a crackdown. Universities and larger language schools might apply for a work permit for teachers willing to sign one-year contracts.visa while you remain in the country.
Insider Information l l
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Vietnam
Types l l l l l
of Work Strong demand Universities Chain schools e.g. ILA Many small private schools, often specialising in business English, TOEFL etc Private tutoring (especially after making contact, e.g. while working at a school). Lucrative with children of expats from Japan, South Korea etc
Official Requirements l l Degree in any field Sponsorship from employer for work visa Tourist visas can be changed easily to work visas in-country.
Insider Information l
Key resources
Indonesia www.eslbase.com/jobs/indonesia Thailand www.esl-teachers.net www.ajarn.com Vietnam www.eslbase.com/jobs/vietnam
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4 Destinations
Gareths Story
I have no regrets about deciding to teach in Thailand at all, its the best thing I ever did!! Its 7pm on a Sunday evening in Bangkok. Ive had quite possibly the easiest week of my entire working life, Im about to pour myself a nice whiskey and coke and Im going to sit on my balcony trying my best to write something interesting that will hopefully stir up some interest in you about this amazing place. My name is Gareth, Im twenty-four years old and Im a kindergarten teacher in Bangkok. Why did I decide to leave England to teach English in a far-flung corner of the planet? Imagine the scene: recently graduated from Lancaster University; Ive studied hard my whole life; I did well in school, college and university and now I find myself sat in my second 9-5 telesales job in the space of four months selling insurance, possibly the dullest thing a person can buy. That was not where I envisaged myself when I graduated. I had two options: I could stay in the telesales job whilst looking for some dream job to come along in rainy Bolton (during an imminent recession); or I could get out there and make the most of the fact that I was still young, I had no major commitments keeping me where I was (kids, mortgage, wife etc) and there was a whole world out there that needed to be seen
Gareth Openshaw
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Why Choose Western & Mediterranean Europe? High salaries (esp. Northern Europe) Cosmopolitan lifestyle
l l
l l l l
Many chain schools (e.g. Berlitz, Wall Street, International House) Summer schools (but this is now hard to get a hold of) Universities Freelance work (esp. for companies/private tutoring), often via an agency useful to have contacts and to know the language
Times of Year?
l l l
Private schools/freelancing: year-round, but peak in most countries Sep/Oct Summer schools in Mediterranean: Jul-Aug University: depends on countrys academic year
Challenges l Very difficult for non-EU passport holders as workplaces are reluctant to sponsor them (employer must prove no EU national is suitable) Employers (esp. in Mediterranean) may offer cashin-hand with no work permit Strict requirements regarding qualifications & experience High cost of living (and housing rarely supplied)
Solutions l l l l Working holiday visas for 18-30 year-olds (from Australia, NZ, Canada) Student visas often allow part-time work Build relationships with potential employers when visiting for other purposes (e.g. during a holiday) Be very cautious of employers offering you cash-inhand you may be exploited, and if you are caught its big trouble Worth considering other options if you havent got any qualifications or experience Teachers often combine one main job with freelancing
l l l
l l
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France
Types of Work l l l
Private language schools University language centres Private tutoring (especially after making contact, e.g. while working at a school)
Official Requirements l l Degree EU nationals preferred Business qualifications and/or experience is useful
Insider Information l
Germany
Types l l l l l l
Guten Tag!
of Work Private language schools Agencies delivering corporate work University language centres Language assistants in government schools Adult education courses Private tutoring (especially after making contact, e.g. while working at a school)
Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: 4 Destinations Living expenses:
Official Requirements l l l Degree Specific requirements for different states EU nationals preferred Its easier to find work than it looks.
Insider Information l
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Greece
Types of Work l l
Geia sou!
Frontisteria (secondary cram schools) Private tutoring (especially after making contact, e.g. while working at a school)
Official Requirements l l l l Degree EU nationals or teachers from Greek background preferred Certificate of Proficiency in English Application for work permit must be in applicants country of residence (can be a slow process) Most teachers say it is better to look for work on the ground in Greece and then leave the country to apply officially.
Insider Information l
Italy
Buon Giorno!
Official Requirements l l l Degree EU nationals preferred Work permits for non-EU nationals now almost impossible Many teachers work illegally but this is very risky. 4 Destinations
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Insider Information l
Portugal
Types of Work l l
Ola!
Frontisteria (secondary cram schools) Private tutoring (especially after making contact, e.g. while working at a school)
Official Requirements l Degree Because of demand, a degree may not be necessary. When you find a teaching job you can apply for permits locally. Insider Information l
Types of Work l l l Boom for teaching adults has passed Private language schools (but most unwilling to arrange official permits and will pay you cash) Growing area: pre-school and children
Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: 4 Destinations Living expenses:
Official Requirements l l l No degree required EU nationals preferred Application for work permit must be in applicants country of residence (can be a slow process) Many teachers work illegally but this is very risky.
Insider Information l
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Spain
Buenos das!
Switzerland
Types of Work l l l Private language schools
University language centres Private tutoring (especially after making contact, e.g. while working at a school)
Official Requirements l l l Degree CELTA/TEFL + teaching experience EU nationals preferred The law is strictly enforced.
Insider Information l
Turkey
Types of Work l l l l Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: Living expenses: Official Requirements l l Degree Work permit
Merhaba!
Strong demand (especially for evening and weekend work teaching adults) Many private language schools Chain schools Colleges/universities (require MA)
Insider Information l l Schools rarely help with work permits. Many teachers are on 3-month tourist visas, which is illegal. 4 Destinations
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Key resources
France www.tefljobsinfrance.com Germany www.tesall.com/germany.html Greece www.tefl.edu.gr/faq.htm#a9 Italy jobstefl.com/esljobsitaly.asp
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l l
l l l
Many private language schools Strong demand for teachers outside the big centres (i.e. Prague and Budapest) and especially in the former USSR Business/technical English with corporate clients (through a school or as a freelancer)
Times of Year?
Challenges l l l In much of the region, standard of living is low, so youll receive low salaries Locals have high expectations of teachers and are wary of foreign hooligans Competition lots of British and American teachers, especially in Prague
Solutions l l l Supplement school salary with freelancing Be professional (in appearance and approach to teaching) Specialise (e.g. in English for Business or IT/ network with other teachers)
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Czech Republic
Types of Work l l l l l Private language schools Chain schools Freelancing with companies
Dobry den!
Lots of opportunities in provinces, but stiff competition in Prague Lots of stories of badly managed schools do some research
Official Requirements l l Any bachelors degree (but TEFL helps) Work permit Where demand is strong (e.g. small cities), a degree may not be necessary and schools will arrange paperwork.
Insider Information l
Hungary
Types of Work l l l l Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: Living expenses: Official Requirements l l
Jo napot kvanok!
Theres demand but language schools rarely provide full-time work many teachers need to work at several schools Private language schools Chain schools Freelancing with companies
Most schools say TEFL/TESOL certificate + years teaching experience Work permit Smaller schools find it difficult to get teachers. Degrees may not be necessary and schools will arrange paperwork 4 Destinations
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Insider Information l
Russia
Types of Work l l l l
Zdravstvuitye!
Private language schools Chain schools Freelancing with companies Strong demand for business English. Private schools send teachers to clients workplace
Official Requirements l l Most schools say degree + CELTA Work permit Demand for teachers is so strong that many schools will hire native speakers without qualifications. Good references are as important as qualifications.
Insider Information l l
Living expenses:
Key resources
Czech Republic www.eslbase.com/jobs/czech-republic Hungary http://www.esljobs.com/teach-english/hungary Russia www.englishfirst.com/trt/esl-jobs-in-russia.html
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l l l
l l l
Many private schools Universities & colleges (better conditions but may be strict with qualifications) Companies may employ English teachers (for Business/ Technical English) directly
Times of Year?
l l
Private schools: year-round, but especially autumn Universities: school year generally starts at the end of March
Solutions l l Latin America is for lifestyle, not making money Act sensibly
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NB once you start working at a school, its often possible to negotiate a higher salary
Brazil
Types of Work l l l
Ola!
Official Requirements l l Bachelors degree Degree There are a lot of Brazilian students studying in English-speaking countries. Ask them for recommendations and contacts.
Insider Information l
Types of Work l l l Private language schools, especially in Santiago Chain schools Government schools
Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: 4 Destinations Living expenses:
Official Requirements l l Bachelors degree Need signed contract for work visa Most teachers start teaching on a 3-month tourist visa (which is illegal but widespread) while they look for a longer-term contract which will get them a yearlong work visa.
Insider Information l
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Chile
Buenos das!
Official Requirements l l Only bachelors degree required if you undergo an interview in person If apply from offshore, you need a bachelors degree and TEFL/TESOL certificate Making contact in person is effective.
Insider Information l
Types of Work l l l l Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: Living expenses: Official Requirements l l l TEFL/TESOL certificate No degree required Need a sponsor for work visa Some private language schools will take teachers with the certificate only, while others require nothing more than native-level fluency. Schools often prefer to interview teachers in person. Many positions are never posted online. Strong demand because of NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) Private language schools Chain schools Government schools
Mexico
Buenos das!
Costa Rica
Buenos das!
Key resources
Brazil www.eslbase.com/jobs/brazil Chile www.teachingchile.com
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l l
Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Jordan have the highest demand Most jobs through colleges & universities
Times of Year?
Challenges l l Laws are strictly enforced (e.g. no pork or alcohol is allowed in Saudi) Strict social rules, especially in Saudi Arabia & Kuwait e.g. no public display of affection between a man and a woman, no discussion of family members in class, no reference to decadent behaviours in class Sexism Anti-Semitism
Solutions l l l These laws are no joke! You have to accept them before accepting a job Again, you have to accept this if you want to live there Many jobs ask for a male or a female teacher, depending on the gender of students both men and women will receive respect in a teaching context Israeli passports and teachers with Jewish sounding names may be refused a visa
l l
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Jordan
Types of Work l l
Marhaba!
Official Requirements l l Generally a degree is required Must be sponsored The law is strictly enforced.
Insider Information l
Kuwait
Types of Work l l
Salaam!
Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: 4 Destinations Living expenses:
Official Requirements l l Generally a degree is required Must be sponsored The law is strictly enforced.
Insider Information l
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Saudi Arabia
Types of Work l l l Colleges & universities Some foreign institutes
As-salam alaykum!
The demand for native-English speaking males is strong. Colleges offer high tax-free salaries, free transportation and accommodation, along with other perks You will have to organise a job before going there because there are no tourist visas for Saudi Arabia
Insider Information l
UAE
Aahlan wa sahlan!
Types of Work l l l Colleges & universities Some foreign institutes Private schools
Official Requirements l l Degree Must be sponsored The law is strictly enforced. 4 Destinations
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Insider Information l
Key resources
Jordan www.esljobs.com/teach-english/jordan/ Kuwait www.esljunction.com/TEFL/TEFL_Jobs_Kuwait. html
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Africa
Egypt, Sudan
Why Choose Africa? l l l l Volunteering is very fulfilling work teachers report Africa is life-changing You are directly helping people in difficult circumstances Sense of adventure Because of lack of resources, Africa will quickly develop a teachers skills & creativity
l l
Demand for volunteer teachers is very high Some international schools are present, but the requirements for qualifications & experience is very strict
Times of Year?
Year-round
Challenges l l l Very few well-paid teaching positions in Africa Difficult living conditions Hard to get work permits in many countries (employer needs to show no local can do the job and there are many high-level English speakers in Africa) Lack of teaching resources Security (crime and terrorism)
Solutions l l l l Do not consider Africa for making money This will be a meaningful experience just have realistic expectations Volunteering is a much easier option 4 Destinations
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l l
Learn about possible classroom activities with limited resources check out any training courses that specialise in this Act sensibly
Egypt
Types of Work l l l
Aahlan wa sahlan!
Private schools Volunteers for various international organisations Foreign institutions like the American University in Cairo and the International Language Institute Heliopolis
Official Requirements l Work permit & work visa (school arranges) before arriving Making contact in person is effective. Insider Information l
Sudan
Types of Work l
Salaam aleikum!
High demand for volunteers through various international organisations that work directly with Sudanese institutions
Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: 4 Destinations Living expenses:
Official Requirements l Work permit plus letter of recommendation Ensure you are emotionally prepared if youre volunteering as much of the population is below the poverty line. Insider Information l
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l l
Times of Year?
Year-round
Challenges l Paid jobs are scarce. There are many local English teachers English is a national language in India and many foreign teachers looking for work Low salaries Poverty & crowded conditions
Solutions l l l Have a point of difference e.g. Business English experience Low cost of living Be emotionally prepared 4 Destinations
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l l
India
l l l Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: Living expenses: Official Requirements l l Degree Work permit for paid work
Namaste!
Types of Work Strong demand for volunteers Business English Interesting work such as accent training for call centres
Insider Information l l Most teachers are volunteers and have entered on a tourist visa. Not many paid positions are advertised on the internet. You generally need to be on the ground and look for opportunities. To get a work permit you need a letter from your employer.
Nepal
Types of Work l l l Conditions Monthly salary: Hourly rate: Other benefits: Living expenses: Official Requirements l Work permit for paid work Insider Information l l
Namaste!
Strong demand for volunteers Short-term work at private schools Interesting work such as teaching at monasteries
Most teachers are volunteering and have entered on a tourist visa. Established schools may help you get a work permit.
4 Destinations
Key resources
India www.esljobs.com/teach-english/india Nepal http://www.tefl365.com/country/nepal
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Jodies Story
Im Jodie, I graduated from Birmingham Uni in July 09. Whilst recovering from hip surgery and looking for jobs I stumbled across TEFL. Never in a million years did I imagine myself teaching in Thailand, but Im going, in May for 5 months. Im super scared because I know nothing about teaching, but im also really really excited about going this is my chance to do something different and meet loads of new people and I cannot wait to meet fellow TEFLers and travellers. Im hoping to save enough to do a bit of travel afterwards as well, this is the reason for the one way ticket! I am 21, live in Kidderminster and I absolutely must have something to keep me occupied all of the time as im very easily bored. I work full time as an administrator but I fill any free time with aerobics, gym, swim, reading and music, but I am especially fond of a good old night out with friends, partial to a drop of vino and love meeting new and exciting people. Get in touch fellow TEFLers/ travellers - would love to hear about your experiences!
Jodie Taylor
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TEFL Glossary
Communicative Classroom A classroom where students often interact and speak with other students EAP English for Academic Purposes; teaching students planning to study at university ESP English for Specific Purposes; teaching students in a specialised field, e.g. engineering or health General English English with no specialised focus Ice-breaker A student-to-student speaking activity at the start of a class; also called a warmer Learners Dictionary A dictionary specially designed for learners Methodology An approach to teaching (e.g. the communicative methodology believes students should speak to each other in class) Reference Grammar A book for looking up grammar rules Teaching Practice A lesson a trainee teaches on a teacher training course Test Preparation A course for students who are going to take an important test Young Learners Teaching English to children Language Analysis Examining the structure and meaning of language Macro Skills The four primary language skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking Native-Speaker Someone who learnt a language from early childhood Non-Native Speaker Someone who learnt a language after early childhood CELTA The Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults, run by Cambridge University TEFL Certificate The entry level of qualification for the TEFL industry
TEFL Glossary
70
Chain School A school with a number of branches in different cities or countries Diploma A higher level of qualification than a certificate; only required for positions of responsibility in a school EFL English as a Foreign Language; generally used to mean English for work or study ESL English as a Second Language; generally used to mean migrant English ESOL English as a Second or Other Language (used mainly in the UK); any English teaching to non-native speakers Split Shift A work schedule with a long break in the middle (e.g. 2 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the evening) TEFL Teaching English as a Foreign Language (used mainly in the UK); generally used to mean English for work or study TESOL Teaching English as a Second or Other Language (used mainly in the US, Australia and New Zealand); any English teaching to non-native speakers Trinity CertTESOL A certificate in TESOL run by Trinity College, London
TEFL Glossary
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