Embarking on a journey as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) teacher is akin to setting sail on an adventure that spans continents, cultures, and classroom experiences. This voyage can be exhilarating, providing opportunities to connect with diverse individuals while unlocking a world of professional prospects. However, like any expedition, it comes with its fair share of navigational challenges and hidden treasures.
The Pros of TEFL Teaching:
1. Travel and Cultural Immersion: TEFL teaching offers the intrepid traveller within you a chance to explore the world and immerse yourself in the tapestry of local customs and traditions.
2. A World of Employment Horizons: The global demand for English teachers remains steadfast. Whether your heart yearns for the Far East, the European continent, or the vibrant landscapes of South America, there are abundant opportunities to embark on your teaching career. The digital realm has also opened doors for online teaching. During the tumultuous days of the COVID-19 pandemic, I found opportunities on online platforms like Palfish and others. The ability to teach from the comfort of my own space, be it an iPad or a mobile phone, provided me with unprecedented flexibility. However, it’s worth noting that the landscape of online teaching has shifted due to policy changes in China, which significantly reduced the number of online teaching opportunities.
3. Flexible Career: TEFL teaching is a versatile vocation. It can serve as a stepping stone to new adventures or become a lifelong journey. Whether you choose to take sabbaticals between contracts, explore different locales, or specialise in niche areas like business English, your career path is as flexible as the wind.
4. Personal Growth: Guiding non-native speakers towards English proficiency is a gratifying endeavor. Along the way, you’ll gain invaluable skills in communication, problem-solving, and adaptability. Witnessing your students’ progress is a profoundly fulfilling experience.
The Cons of TEFL Teaching:
1. Lack of Job Security: TEFL positions often come in the form of contracts, which can cast shadows of uncertainty on your job security. The level of stability can vary, especially in seasonal or fiercely competitive job markets.
2. Diverse Work Environments: TEFL roles can differ vastly in terms of work hours, compensation, and living conditions. Conducting thorough research and understanding the specific job’s role and contract is essential to a successful journey.
3. Culture Shock: Adapting to a new culture and language can be challenging. Culture shock is a real phenomenon that can impact your well-being and job satisfaction as you navigate through an unfamiliar country.
4. Lack of Benefits: TEFL positions can lack the comprehensive benefits that many home-country jobs offer, such as health insurance or retirement plans. As a TEFL teacher, you’ll need to plan for these aspects independently if they are not provided.
Certificates:
1. TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language): The TEFL certificate provides a foundational understanding of teaching English to non-native speakers. This standard certificate typically involves 120 hours of coursework.
2. CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults): If you seek a more advanced and internationally recognized qualification, the CELTA, offered by Cambridge University, can be a great option. It delves deep into practical teaching skills.
3. TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages): TESOL casts a wider net, encompassing both TEFL and TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language).
4. Online TEFL Certificates: Numerous online TEFL courses offer flexibility and cost-effectiveness. While they may not carry the same prestige as in-person certificates, they hold value, especially if you’re embarking on entry-level positions. Many employers accept these certificates.
However, if your aspirations lead you to international schools where English is taught as an additional language, a degree is typically a prerequisite. Most esteemed institutions also expect you to hold a CELTA or a recognised TEFL certificate with classroom experience placements. Additionally, international schools often prefer candidates with a minimum of a few years of teaching experience.
Volunteering as a TEFL Teacher:
As well as paid work, some may be in a position where they would and are able to volunteer. I have found this TEFL volunteering to be a pro. Volunteering as a TEFL teacher offers a myriad of opportunities to give back while gaining invaluable teaching experience. Whether you’re passionate about supporting underprivileged communities, contributing to educational initiatives, or simply spreading the gift of language, there are numerous avenues for volunteer TEFL work. I have completed volunteer English teaching in orphanages and to refugees during some of the longer holidays I have had. It was a truly rewarding experience. From teaching at local schools and orphanages to participating in community outreach programs, these experiences not only enrich the lives of those you teach but also broaden your horizons and deepen your understanding of diverse cultures. Volunteering in TEFL is a placement that allows you to make a positive impact while embarking on a journey of personal growth and cultural immersion.
In conclusion, TEFL teaching can be an enriching career choice. Weighing the pros and cons, taking your personal circumstances into account, and selecting the right TEFL certificate can greatly influence your journey’s success. Whether you are passionate about education, travel, or both, TEFL teaching promises to be a rewarding path where you can make a positive impact on the world while navigating your unique educational journey.
