So you’re not sure you like the idea of teaching English as a foreign language? Perhaps you envisage it as being slightly boring, and quite frankly, a classroom teacher in a language school is not a job you consider yourself cut out for.
If so, think again! There are many rewarding TEFL jobs, and not all of them are located in the seemingly sterile environment of the language school. Choose carefully, and you can bring your experience and personality to the role, and find a teaching job abroad that you are really suited to!
So if you are thinking of teaching English abroad, or need to earn some money whilst travelling, there are a variety of opportunities to choose from.
The Conversationalist
Not the academic type? Do you just love to talk? If you dislike the idea of a formal school, then try a language school with an alternative approach to learning English. If grappling with grammar frightens you, and endless preparation of lessons is not your cup of tea, then language schools such as Greencafe in Japan may present an attractive solution.
These English schools are simply tables in cafes, for conversation-based lessons on a one-to-one basis. These schools suit Japanese people who dislike the formality of language schools, and instead prefer to learn conversational English in a relaxed social setting. Yes that’s right… English schools will pay for you to speak English and drink coffee!
This isn’t as easy as it sounds. You’ll need a wide range of interests, and to like talking to all kinds of different people. You also need to be good at listening, enthusiastic and friendly. But if this all sounds familiar, you could fit the bill!
The Businessperson
Do you want your resume to stand out? Afraid your stint teaching English abroad will seem frivolous to future employers? Teaching business English provides the perfect opportunity to gain experience in a corporate environment, which should impress future employers. Many large, multinational companies, such as Coca Cola, employ full-time English teachers. They’re great places to work as the classes are usually small and you can expect higher pay than in language schools.
This is both a highly profitable and growing area of English teaching and a real opportunity to utilize previous business experience you may have gained. Teaching business English concentrates on formal English and teaches skills such as writing letters, answering the telephone and negotiation. You should also be prepared to explain specialized business jargon and talk about business etiquette.
You need to be flexible for this role, and find out exactly what the business requires you to teach. Dress for a corporate environment, and be confident, and professional. Above all, you will need to have a good working knowledge of grammar and the English language.
The Nursery School Teacher
So you like kids, but can’t hack the ones who are almost as big as you are? No problem. There are many nurseries abroad that will jump at the chance to employ enthusiastic, certified TEFL teachers. If you enjoy playing games, singing songs and dancing, then this is the job for you… and no English textbooks required! All you’ll need is plenty of children’s books, songs and action games to keep the little ones occupied. And, let’s not forget, plenty of energy!
The Primary/Secondary School Teacher
There are many private and state schools around the world that employ English speakers both as teaching assistants and TEFL teachers. Sometimes you will have sole responsibility for the English lessons you plan and teach, however, you will often be required to work with another teacher.
A certain degree of cultural sensitivity is helpful here, as the teacher may have fixed ideas about your role in the classroom. But with a little patience and enthusiasm it can be a rewarding partnership, and provide you with a valuable insight into the culture of the country you are working in.
There is a variety of opportunities out there, so think carefully before joining the first language school you come across. This may be the easiest option, but not necessarily the right one for you! Look at ESL forums such as Dave’s ESL Cafe and talk to different teachers before deciding.