Want to Teach English as a Foreign Language? Here’s what you need to know

Thinking of learning to teach English as a foreign language? Not sure if it’s the right career for you?

Today we’ll be discussing what it means to teach English as a foreign language, how you become qualified, and what the career prospects are like in the long run. We’ll also be covering the differences between online and classroom teaching, as well as how to know if teaching English is right for you.

Training to Be an English Teacher

Unlike traditional teaching careers, there’s no one specific qualification you need to teach English as a foreign language. There are specific certifications you can do, but for many countries, there’s no legal standard for being an English teacher. If you can speak English, you can teach in English, at least in theory.

That said, it usually isn’t as simple as rocking up to a school and asking for a job. Any reputable language teaching school will still care about your professional background and qualifications. They just won’t always require a specific degree from you.

What they might ask for is some form of TEFL qualification, and this is where things get a little complicated. There are a lot of courses out there offering various certifications for teaching English as a foreign language. Some are legitimate and widely respected. Others are essentially an expensive piece of paper – or more likely a PDF.

If you’re planning to teach English as a foreign language, then we do recommend getting a certificate, but make sure to do a lot of vetting before you hand any money over. If you can find job listings specifically asking for that qualification, then that’s a good sign.

Generally speaking, if you’re looking for a qualification to help find work, then CELTA or CertTESOL (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) are likely your best bets. While they can be expensive, these structured, intensive courses represent the ideal entry point. In fact, many learning institutions specifically require you to have either a CELTA or CertTESOL before applying.

How To Teach English As a Foreign Language

Once you’re qualified, you can apply to roles online. Many international language schools are willing to help you relocate either temporarily or long-term, assuming you have the right certifications and background. As with the qualification, make sure to do extensive research before applying. This is an international market, so regulations can vary a great deal, and there certainly are scams out there.

Not that every post will require you to move. Plenty of people teach English online, choosing to remain in the UK but working as a tutor via a call and a webcam. Online teaching is a very different experience to classroom teaching as it’s generally one-to-one and has a higher proportion of adult students. The rates of pay can also be quite a bit lower as you’re in competition with people all over the world. That said, the major advantage is that you get to choose where you live.

Is TEFL Right For You?

Why teach English as a foreign language? Is it a worthwhile career move?

Teaching English as a foreign language offers an accessible entry point into international work, remote freelance, and cross-cultural education. You’ll get the chance to work on your communication skills, public speaking, and lesson planning without having to do a four-year degree.

Furthermore, it’s excellent for those looking to change careers. If you’re tired of your current path, then TEFL is a career with a relatively low bar to entry that can offer exciting and new experiences.

And, of course, the biggest appeal for many is that it’s a chance to travel the world, to see other countries and learn about other cultures, all while earning money for the privilege. It’s not for everyone, but if that kind of experience sounds like an exciting adventure to you, then you’ll have an amazing time.

There are necessary skills you’ll need to learn along the way, however. You have to be patient, adaptable, and organised. Classroom management, lesson structure, and cultural sensitivity can all present challenges for beginners. Nonetheless, with the right training and a genuine love of teaching, this can be a deeply rewarding long-term career.