TEFL Explained
Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), is a term used to describe the teaching of English to non-native speakers in a country where English is not the first language (see ESL/ESOL/EFL/ELT, which explains the differences between the many acronyms you are likely to encounter in English language teaching). It is possible for TEFL to happen within English speaking countries, in language schools for example, but teaching tends to takes place in a student’s native country. There, TEFL is used within state school systems, private language schools and even by freelance teachers. Teachers can be either native or non-native speakers.
Qualifications
There are institutions that provide TEFL certification across the globe, but there is no internationally recognised independent accrediting organisation that overlooks the issuing of these qualifications. TEFL providers tend to get their certificates accredited by organisations within their region that are able to approve teaching qualifications.
Finding Employment
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Wages Worldwide
As with all jobs a TEFL teacher’s rate of pay depends on length of service, experience and the employer. There are other more specific factors that apply to teaching abroad, such as the threat of terrorism or military action, duration of the teacher’s contract and the economic status of the country. Do not always be put off by what appears to be a low wage; it could be enough to provide a high quality of life.
The highest pay for TEFL teachers on short-term contracts is in the Middle East. Demand for English classes far exceeds the number of teachers so Taiwan, Japan and South Korea are all popular locations for travelling TEFL teachers.
Be aware that in some countries it is possible to set up private language schools without any restriction on teaching standards or staff wages. Unscrupulous businesses use these schools to exploit both teachers and students, so be careful and research any school you are considering working for.
Teaching in Europe
Since English is widely regarded as the international language of business and one of the three internal languages used by the EU there is a high demand for teachers in Europe. Positions are available in both the private and public sectors and offer a good standard of living for well qualified tutors.
Teaching in Asia
Hong Kong
As a former colony of the British Empire, the English language is still very important to people in Hong Kong and is taken very seriously. TEFL graduates will find an abundance of part-time teaching positions that pay very well.
Japan
The JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) programme offers teachers the opportunity to work as a teaching assistant in Japanese schools. It is also possible to find employment in private language schools and universities.
South Korea
There is a huge demand for TEFL teachers in South Korea. Employers are often willing to offer high rates of pay, free accommodation and even cover the costs of a round-trip airfare in order to secure the services of teachers.
It should be noted that the demand for teachers is partly due to the terrible reputation that South Korea has for exploiting foreign teachers. Be careful and find yourself a school with a good reputation.
Taiwan
Taiwan has a very well regulated and organised ELT industry with a wealth of opportunities for qualified teachers. Teachers can usually find employment in private cramming institutes or ‘bushibans’ which teach younger students for university entrance examinations. The average wage is around $2000 USD a month.
Thailand
Due to restrictions on foreigners taking up non-skilled jobs in Thailand, teaching English is often the only way to make money. Thailand does have a good range of employment opportunities and although salaries are fairly low, people are attracted by the lifestyle. Recent controversy involving foreign teachers in Bangkok has led to the Thai authorities tightening visa and work permit regulations.
