General Information
Long are the days of Tunisia being soley a Francophone country. As English is required for entrance to universities as well as providing access the better jobs, Tunisians view studying English as a way to improve their lives. All this adds up to a considerable demand for native English speakers.
Teaching English
Quite unlike Europe, for those wishing to teach in a state or private school, there is not the requirement for a PGCE. You will need a TESOL qualification and you will need to check with the individual school whether they require an undergraduate degree and any teaching experience.
The major city is Tunis, where there are a considerable number of private language institutes which are worth checking out. Obviously, the biggest demand for English will be in the larger cities or in this case city. Tunisia is a small country. however, it is possible to find work in the smaller coastal towns such as Hammamet and Sousse as they draw a big tourist turnout. In the public sector one can expect large classes, with students of a varying degrees of ability within the same class.
Visas and Regulations
The Tunisian Ministry of Labour stipulates that the maximum number of foreign staff in any organisation cannot exceed fifty percent. It also insists that all foreign teachers have obtained an undergraduate degree before they can be eligible for a work permit but again you should check with the individual school. Work permits are obtained after arrival by applying for authorization. You will need copies of your diplomas, birth certificate, etc.
With all this said, once one is off the beaten track, it is not the case that visa regulations are strictly enforced. One should be mindful of what one’s tourist visa entitlements are, and consider how practical it is to renew one’s visa through cross-border trips.
Getting a Job
Before starting out, be sure to obtain a TEFL/TESOL Certificate which is required for securing a job. Visit our site for more information on certification. Once you've successfully completed your certification, finding well-paid work should not be difficult in Tunis, Hammamet and Sousse. However, it is strongly suggested that you come to Tunisia to find the right job for you. Often by email, we, ESL teachers, are given great promises before we come only to find upon arrival that they are far from true. Doing your job search on site helps distinguish fact from fiction as well as getting a feel for the country and the culture.
To start, you can locate schools in a given city, by looking at the on-line yellow pages or esl job search engines. Amideast and British Council are too good places to start. You can either send a resume and cover letter beforehand to arrange interviews or show up, visit schools and arrange interviews then. What's most important is do not accept any post without visiting the school first and talking to at least one or two of the teachers who work there.
One of the best and most realistic propositions is to build a working life based around constructing a portfolio a few hours here and a few hours there, bearing mind that revenue from ‘one to one lessons’ can double a teacher’s income, one should always be on the lookout for one to one students, whatever one’s employment or visa status. The market for those wanting private tuition or conversation practice is huge, and potentially very lucrative, therefore, not be neglected. Give yourself time to build a portfolio of work. This is best safeguard to both your income, and employment status.
For more information about getting TESOL certified, visit us here!
Monday, August 11, 2008
Thursday, August 7, 2008
TESOL Jobs in Turkey
General Information
With the rapidly expanding tourist industry, and pending membership of the EU, Turkey has seen a massive increase in the number of TESOL teaching opportunities available. There is a broad market including high schools, private high schools, universities, and private language institutes. It’s very easy to get a job; however, the art lies in finding the right job with the right of employer.
Teaching English
One can find work simply with a TESOL qualification; however, this is not sufficient to comply with the regulations required to get a work permit. In order to teach in a high school, private high school, or a university you must have a university degree and a TESOL certificate. This is so that these institutions can satisfy the requirements of the Department of Education, and employ you legally.
Because of the huge variety of standards in education you can expect a commensurately varied student body. Some will have very little experience; however, others, with more experience, will be competent in English.
Students tend to be highly motivated due to the gains to be made, both in tourism and trade, from being fluent in English. Many universities use English as the medium of instruction. For many people in Turkey, English is a must.
Visas and Regulations
Tourist visas are normally good for three months, and may be renewed by a cross-boarder trip to Cyprus or Greece. The penalty for overstaying your visa is of the order of $250.
To obtain legal employment, one’s visa must be processed in your country of origin. So even if you get a job on the spot, you will have to return home to put your papers in order. It's important to note that for universities and other large organizations, its possible to have a phone interview before even arriving to Turkey. With this method, you can have your job and paperwork arranged before you go.
Your employer must obtain permission to employ you from Ministry of Education, and the Undersecretariat for the Treasury. At this stage teachers are required to submit notarised translations of their educational certificates. Only those with an undergraduate degree and a TESOL certificate need apply. Once these have been submitted it takes about four weeks to process. After this, in your country of origin, you must submit to the Turkish Consulate your contract of employment, papers from the ministries, and a form that needs to be filled out. This usually takes about six weeks to process.
As a part of your contract you should normally expect to have any visa costs reimbursed, accommodation provided, and airfares covered. You should also beware that your allotted annual vacation should not be eroded by Islamic holidays, i.e. that Ramadan, usually three days, does not take a bite out of your vacation entitlement.
Getting a Job
The British Council in Izmir is a good contact for everybody, and issues a pamphlet ‘Information for Foreign Teachers’. Bilkent University School of English Language www.bilkent.edu.tr/busel is often on the look out for teachers. Tukeng Recruitment turkeng@anglefire.com is a recruitment agency worth checking out. As is Bosphorus Teacher Placemen bosphorus@e-kolay.net.
The advantage of showing up to find work is that you can check out your potential employers, your accommodations, class sizes, and facilities and materials. As ever, in the TESOL world, there are some schools that make a lot of promises through email but once we arrive, our expectations fall short.
Local telephone directories detail universities, schools and language institutes, etc, which are often only too willing to interview candidates. Highly-qualified, and more importantly, well-turned-out, organised and enthusiastic teachers are in short supply. If they like you they will most certainly find some teaching for you!
One of the best and most realistic propositions is to build a working life based around constructing a portfolio a few hours here and a few hours there, bearing mind that revenue from ‘one to one lessons’ can double a teacher’s income, one should always be on the lookout for one to one students, whatever one’s employment or visa status. The market for those wanting private tuition or conversation practice is huge, and potentially very lucrative, therefore, not be neglected. Give yourself time to build a portfolio of work. This is best safeguard to both your income, and employment status.
For more information about getting TESOL certified, visit us here!
With the rapidly expanding tourist industry, and pending membership of the EU, Turkey has seen a massive increase in the number of TESOL teaching opportunities available. There is a broad market including high schools, private high schools, universities, and private language institutes. It’s very easy to get a job; however, the art lies in finding the right job with the right of employer.
Teaching English
One can find work simply with a TESOL qualification; however, this is not sufficient to comply with the regulations required to get a work permit. In order to teach in a high school, private high school, or a university you must have a university degree and a TESOL certificate. This is so that these institutions can satisfy the requirements of the Department of Education, and employ you legally.
Because of the huge variety of standards in education you can expect a commensurately varied student body. Some will have very little experience; however, others, with more experience, will be competent in English.
Students tend to be highly motivated due to the gains to be made, both in tourism and trade, from being fluent in English. Many universities use English as the medium of instruction. For many people in Turkey, English is a must.
Visas and Regulations
Tourist visas are normally good for three months, and may be renewed by a cross-boarder trip to Cyprus or Greece. The penalty for overstaying your visa is of the order of $250.
To obtain legal employment, one’s visa must be processed in your country of origin. So even if you get a job on the spot, you will have to return home to put your papers in order. It's important to note that for universities and other large organizations, its possible to have a phone interview before even arriving to Turkey. With this method, you can have your job and paperwork arranged before you go.
Your employer must obtain permission to employ you from Ministry of Education, and the Undersecretariat for the Treasury. At this stage teachers are required to submit notarised translations of their educational certificates. Only those with an undergraduate degree and a TESOL certificate need apply. Once these have been submitted it takes about four weeks to process. After this, in your country of origin, you must submit to the Turkish Consulate your contract of employment, papers from the ministries, and a form that needs to be filled out. This usually takes about six weeks to process.
As a part of your contract you should normally expect to have any visa costs reimbursed, accommodation provided, and airfares covered. You should also beware that your allotted annual vacation should not be eroded by Islamic holidays, i.e. that Ramadan, usually three days, does not take a bite out of your vacation entitlement.
Getting a Job
The British Council in Izmir is a good contact for everybody, and issues a pamphlet ‘Information for Foreign Teachers’. Bilkent University School of English Language www.bilkent.edu.tr/busel is often on the look out for teachers. Tukeng Recruitment turkeng@anglefire.com is a recruitment agency worth checking out. As is Bosphorus Teacher Placemen bosphorus@e-kolay.net.
The advantage of showing up to find work is that you can check out your potential employers, your accommodations, class sizes, and facilities and materials. As ever, in the TESOL world, there are some schools that make a lot of promises through email but once we arrive, our expectations fall short.
Local telephone directories detail universities, schools and language institutes, etc, which are often only too willing to interview candidates. Highly-qualified, and more importantly, well-turned-out, organised and enthusiastic teachers are in short supply. If they like you they will most certainly find some teaching for you!
One of the best and most realistic propositions is to build a working life based around constructing a portfolio a few hours here and a few hours there, bearing mind that revenue from ‘one to one lessons’ can double a teacher’s income, one should always be on the lookout for one to one students, whatever one’s employment or visa status. The market for those wanting private tuition or conversation practice is huge, and potentially very lucrative, therefore, not be neglected. Give yourself time to build a portfolio of work. This is best safeguard to both your income, and employment status.
For more information about getting TESOL certified, visit us here!
TESOL Jobs in Egypt
General Information
Despite its francophone past, the prospects in Egypt are good for ESL teachers. There is no shortage of English in high schools, where all subjects are taught in English. Indeed, the chances of you being accosted and asked to supply English tuition to anybody from taxi drivers to business people to students is really quite high, so don’t be surprised.
Teaching English
Quite unlike Europe, for those wishing to teach in a state or private school, there is not the requirement for an undergraduate degree. There is no requirement for two years’ teaching experience either - a TESOL certificate will suffice.
There is a reasonably large number of private language institutes and opportunities to teach in high schools and universities are available to the better qualified.
Because of the huge variety of standards in education you can expect a commensurately patchy student body. Some will have very little experience whereas others will have many years experience in studying English.
Classes tend to be large, but schools are clean, and reasonably well resourced. Egyptian students are a joy to teach, and show great enthusiasm for learning English, since it is regarded as a passport to future success.
Visas and Regulations
Your visa entitlements will depend on what your country of origin has set up with Egypt, and it is a good idea to contact your local Egyptian consulate stating that you intend to teach, and asking what your visa entitlements are. Most of the organisations detailed below will be able to advise you of the current visa requirements. In most cases you will need originals of your educational certificates, a resume or CV, and you may need to have these documents translated.
If you plan to show up on a tourist visa to check things out first, it is still worth considering what you have to do to renew your visa. Is it worth it to go all the way back home, or do a regular cross border trip?
Getting a Job
Once in Egypt you can check out the English language publications Egypt Today www.egypttoday.com, the Maadi Messenger and Middle East Times, all of which carry ads for teachers. The British Council is always an excellent place to start, and carries a list of private institutes that teach English. It is also worth checking out the Egypt Yellow Pages on www.egyptyellowpages.com.eg which will detail language schools, high schools, and other educational establishments.
For many, getting a job will mean knocking on doors - again, the need for your certificates. Egyptians typically conduct a lengthy interview, perhaps over tea and backgammon, where the impression you make will counts far more than any qualifications you may have. Highly-qualified, and more importantly, well-turned-out, organised and enthusiastic teachers are in short supply. If they like you they will most certainly find some teaching for you!
One of the best and most realistic propositions is to build a working life based around constructing a portfolio a few hours here and a few hours there, bearing mind that revenue from ‘one to one lessons’ can double a teacher’s income, one should always be on the lookout for one to one students, whatever one’s employment or visa status. The market for those wanting private tuition or conversation practice is huge, and potentially very lucrative, therefore, not be neglected. Give yourself time to build a portfolio of work. This is best safeguard to both your income, and employment status.
For more information on becoming TESOL certified, visit us here!
Despite its francophone past, the prospects in Egypt are good for ESL teachers. There is no shortage of English in high schools, where all subjects are taught in English. Indeed, the chances of you being accosted and asked to supply English tuition to anybody from taxi drivers to business people to students is really quite high, so don’t be surprised.
Teaching English
Quite unlike Europe, for those wishing to teach in a state or private school, there is not the requirement for an undergraduate degree. There is no requirement for two years’ teaching experience either - a TESOL certificate will suffice.
There is a reasonably large number of private language institutes and opportunities to teach in high schools and universities are available to the better qualified.
Because of the huge variety of standards in education you can expect a commensurately patchy student body. Some will have very little experience whereas others will have many years experience in studying English.
Classes tend to be large, but schools are clean, and reasonably well resourced. Egyptian students are a joy to teach, and show great enthusiasm for learning English, since it is regarded as a passport to future success.
Visas and Regulations
Your visa entitlements will depend on what your country of origin has set up with Egypt, and it is a good idea to contact your local Egyptian consulate stating that you intend to teach, and asking what your visa entitlements are. Most of the organisations detailed below will be able to advise you of the current visa requirements. In most cases you will need originals of your educational certificates, a resume or CV, and you may need to have these documents translated.
If you plan to show up on a tourist visa to check things out first, it is still worth considering what you have to do to renew your visa. Is it worth it to go all the way back home, or do a regular cross border trip?
Getting a Job
Once in Egypt you can check out the English language publications Egypt Today www.egypttoday.com, the Maadi Messenger and Middle East Times, all of which carry ads for teachers. The British Council is always an excellent place to start, and carries a list of private institutes that teach English. It is also worth checking out the Egypt Yellow Pages on www.egyptyellowpages.com.eg which will detail language schools, high schools, and other educational establishments.
For many, getting a job will mean knocking on doors - again, the need for your certificates. Egyptians typically conduct a lengthy interview, perhaps over tea and backgammon, where the impression you make will counts far more than any qualifications you may have. Highly-qualified, and more importantly, well-turned-out, organised and enthusiastic teachers are in short supply. If they like you they will most certainly find some teaching for you!
One of the best and most realistic propositions is to build a working life based around constructing a portfolio a few hours here and a few hours there, bearing mind that revenue from ‘one to one lessons’ can double a teacher’s income, one should always be on the lookout for one to one students, whatever one’s employment or visa status. The market for those wanting private tuition or conversation practice is huge, and potentially very lucrative, therefore, not be neglected. Give yourself time to build a portfolio of work. This is best safeguard to both your income, and employment status.
For more information on becoming TESOL certified, visit us here!
TESOL Jobs in Spain
General Information
Prospects for English teachers have long been good in Spain, with language schools catering to the needs of high school, university students and business people. Spain has undergone a major transformation in economic growth since the Barcelona Olympics and continues to be Western Europe’s fastest-growing economy. This has meant that more and more employers are requiring English skills from prospective employees, and business-specific academies have sprang up to meet the needs of multi-nationals seeking to improve the language skills of their employees.
Teaching English
Anyone wishing to teach in a state or private school can expect to have a degree, a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education and a TESOL qualification though you should check with your prosepective employer first.
With language institutes expect to find yourself teaching high school or university students. Specialized business schools aim to cater to the needs of large multinational corporations and in this sector any sort of business background is an advantage. Motivation to speak English is high and is still increasing due to the added number of E.U. countries that must do business with each other.
Getting a Job
When trying to get work in advance it is useful to contact the British Council in Madrid. They will be able to advise you as to where in Spain the British Council has offices. In general they keep a list of language schools, both private and state. In addition to that the on-line Yellow Pages should be searched using the term academias de idiomas. If in the UK, then consult the Guardian on Tuesdays, and other academic press, since it is not unusual to find Spanish positions advertised in the English press.
With this said, the vast majority of positions are filled on the spot, and, as ever in Spain, right at the last minute. The corollary to this is that timing is a very important issue. Most language schools shut for the summer, so September is a really good time to arrive and look for work. In addition to that there is often a spike of recruitment activity in January, when teachers fail to return to work. Month to month September to June there are constantly opportunities coming up, but in the summer you are best off doing what everybody else does, and head down to the beach.
It is a good idea, before setting off, to contact your local Spanish Embassy to see what materials they have available. Most consulates have a one page document entitled ‘Teaching English in Spain.’, and the consulate in the UK has a list of institutes, though it may not be up-to-date. It is worth contacting the Federation Espanola de Centros de Ensenanza de Idiomas (FECEI) which is an organisation of the better, more established language schools.
There is a recruitment agency, and Irish or British nationals with an undergraduate degree and a TESOL qualification may consider contacting English Education Services, Alcala 20 2, 28014 Madrid, Tel (91532 9734).
English language newspapers included The Metropolitan in Barcelona, and In Madrid, in Madrid. Not to be ignored is the vogue for Irish pubs that seems to have swept the nation. A good place to meet expats, and to find out what is going on locally in the English language world.
Visas and Regulations
Some state schools are not prepared to go through the difficult process of hiring native English-speaking teachers from outside of Europe. However, in some cases it is easier to place teachers from the US than from other countries, such as Australia and New Zeeland. Non-EU citizens should check with the Spanish consulate in their native country to look for language exchange programs, etc. Americans may wish to contact Interexchange, www.interexchange.org, of New York, who run an exchange programme.
Most individuals working for institutes are self-employed, or ‘freelance’. Therefore, they are responsible for paying their own tax and social security. New arrivals are required to register with the police, organise a bank account into which their wages will be paid, and get a tax number from their local tax office.
For more information on getting certified, visit us here!
Prospects for English teachers have long been good in Spain, with language schools catering to the needs of high school, university students and business people. Spain has undergone a major transformation in economic growth since the Barcelona Olympics and continues to be Western Europe’s fastest-growing economy. This has meant that more and more employers are requiring English skills from prospective employees, and business-specific academies have sprang up to meet the needs of multi-nationals seeking to improve the language skills of their employees.
Teaching English
Anyone wishing to teach in a state or private school can expect to have a degree, a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education and a TESOL qualification though you should check with your prosepective employer first.
With language institutes expect to find yourself teaching high school or university students. Specialized business schools aim to cater to the needs of large multinational corporations and in this sector any sort of business background is an advantage. Motivation to speak English is high and is still increasing due to the added number of E.U. countries that must do business with each other.
Getting a Job
When trying to get work in advance it is useful to contact the British Council in Madrid. They will be able to advise you as to where in Spain the British Council has offices. In general they keep a list of language schools, both private and state. In addition to that the on-line Yellow Pages should be searched using the term academias de idiomas. If in the UK, then consult the Guardian on Tuesdays, and other academic press, since it is not unusual to find Spanish positions advertised in the English press.
With this said, the vast majority of positions are filled on the spot, and, as ever in Spain, right at the last minute. The corollary to this is that timing is a very important issue. Most language schools shut for the summer, so September is a really good time to arrive and look for work. In addition to that there is often a spike of recruitment activity in January, when teachers fail to return to work. Month to month September to June there are constantly opportunities coming up, but in the summer you are best off doing what everybody else does, and head down to the beach.
It is a good idea, before setting off, to contact your local Spanish Embassy to see what materials they have available. Most consulates have a one page document entitled ‘Teaching English in Spain.’, and the consulate in the UK has a list of institutes, though it may not be up-to-date. It is worth contacting the Federation Espanola de Centros de Ensenanza de Idiomas (FECEI) which is an organisation of the better, more established language schools.
There is a recruitment agency, and Irish or British nationals with an undergraduate degree and a TESOL qualification may consider contacting English Education Services, Alcala 20 2, 28014 Madrid, Tel (91532 9734).
English language newspapers included The Metropolitan in Barcelona, and In Madrid, in Madrid. Not to be ignored is the vogue for Irish pubs that seems to have swept the nation. A good place to meet expats, and to find out what is going on locally in the English language world.
Visas and Regulations
Some state schools are not prepared to go through the difficult process of hiring native English-speaking teachers from outside of Europe. However, in some cases it is easier to place teachers from the US than from other countries, such as Australia and New Zeeland. Non-EU citizens should check with the Spanish consulate in their native country to look for language exchange programs, etc. Americans may wish to contact Interexchange, www.interexchange.org, of New York, who run an exchange programme.
Most individuals working for institutes are self-employed, or ‘freelance’. Therefore, they are responsible for paying their own tax and social security. New arrivals are required to register with the police, organise a bank account into which their wages will be paid, and get a tax number from their local tax office.
For more information on getting certified, visit us here!
TESOL Jobs in Greece
General Information
Greece is a TESOL hotspot, with a quarter of those sitting the Cambridge First Certificate being Greek candidates. English is not so much a big business, as a myriad of small businesses, and there is an almost overwhelming number of schools. Anybody with a Cambridge Proficiency Exam can become licensed to open a school. School facilities range from the very basic to the excellent and teachers should expect a high level of professionalism.
Teaching English
Requirements vary depending on the size of the local market, but in order to qualify for a teaching post one should have at least an undergraduate degree and a TESOL certificate, but this is far from universal. In order to become a registered teacher, and work in a state school, it is necessary to have a BA in English and a TESOL certificate.
In private English language schools, you can expect to find yourself teaching all types of students, from high school pupils to those who work in occupations related to tourism. The standard can be highly variable, and the motivation - particularly amongst the high school pupils - is often less than what one would hope.
Wages tend to be on the low side, but are enough to support a comfortable standard of living. However, teaching experience is not a prerequisite for getting a job here. Greece is not the ideal destination for the career TESOL teacher, but more a place where people go to gain teaching experience and a great travel experience.
Getting a Job
When looking for a job it is a good idea to consider Greece’s tourist cycle. The best time for job hunting is in January, with a view to starting the following September. Conversely, July is a very poor time to be job hunting.
There are always plenty of positions available to teachers with a TESOL qualification and an undergraduate degree. Despite being a country where nearly everything is accomplished by word of mouth, there are a few agencies and organisations which can be contacted from abroad. These include:
Cambridge Teachers Recruitment, 17 Metron St, 142 42 Athens ph 210 258 5155, which places 75 teachers a year in schools.
Native English Teachers (NET), 72 Windsor Road, Worthing, West Sussex (01903 218 638), which places 20 candidates in private language schools a year.
On the spot a good source of local information on jobs the Pan-Hellenic Federation of Language School Owners, or PALSO, and it is worth contacting them on the spot at PASLO Headquarters, 2 Lykavitou St and Akadimias St, 106 71 Athens, ph 201 364 0792
Visas and Regulations
Most state schools are not prepared to go through the difficult process of hiring native English-speaking teachers from outside of Europe. However, in some cases it is easier to place teachers from the US than from other countries, such as Australia and New Zealand. Non-EU citizens should check with the Belgian consulate in their native country to look for language exchange programs, etc. Americans may wish to contact Interexchange www.interexchange.org, of New York, who run an exchange programme.
Becoming ‘resident’ requires jumping through a few hoops, and only those with a bachelor’s degree can consider applying. The process is made somewhat easier if the applicant also has a TESOL certificate. First, a teacher’s permit needs to be applied for. This will require original certificates of your qualifications, plus copies translated into Greek. You also need to have a medical examination. Once the teacher’s license has come through, the teacher must take it with passport and photos to the police station to apply for a residence permit, which takes about a month, and needs, with the medical, to be renewed annually.
For more information on becoming TESOL certified, visit us here!
Greece is a TESOL hotspot, with a quarter of those sitting the Cambridge First Certificate being Greek candidates. English is not so much a big business, as a myriad of small businesses, and there is an almost overwhelming number of schools. Anybody with a Cambridge Proficiency Exam can become licensed to open a school. School facilities range from the very basic to the excellent and teachers should expect a high level of professionalism.
Teaching English
Requirements vary depending on the size of the local market, but in order to qualify for a teaching post one should have at least an undergraduate degree and a TESOL certificate, but this is far from universal. In order to become a registered teacher, and work in a state school, it is necessary to have a BA in English and a TESOL certificate.
In private English language schools, you can expect to find yourself teaching all types of students, from high school pupils to those who work in occupations related to tourism. The standard can be highly variable, and the motivation - particularly amongst the high school pupils - is often less than what one would hope.
Wages tend to be on the low side, but are enough to support a comfortable standard of living. However, teaching experience is not a prerequisite for getting a job here. Greece is not the ideal destination for the career TESOL teacher, but more a place where people go to gain teaching experience and a great travel experience.
Getting a Job
When looking for a job it is a good idea to consider Greece’s tourist cycle. The best time for job hunting is in January, with a view to starting the following September. Conversely, July is a very poor time to be job hunting.
There are always plenty of positions available to teachers with a TESOL qualification and an undergraduate degree. Despite being a country where nearly everything is accomplished by word of mouth, there are a few agencies and organisations which can be contacted from abroad. These include:
Cambridge Teachers Recruitment, 17 Metron St, 142 42 Athens ph 210 258 5155, which places 75 teachers a year in schools.
Native English Teachers (NET), 72 Windsor Road, Worthing, West Sussex (01903 218 638), which places 20 candidates in private language schools a year.
On the spot a good source of local information on jobs the Pan-Hellenic Federation of Language School Owners, or PALSO, and it is worth contacting them on the spot at PASLO Headquarters, 2 Lykavitou St and Akadimias St, 106 71 Athens, ph 201 364 0792
Visas and Regulations
Most state schools are not prepared to go through the difficult process of hiring native English-speaking teachers from outside of Europe. However, in some cases it is easier to place teachers from the US than from other countries, such as Australia and New Zealand. Non-EU citizens should check with the Belgian consulate in their native country to look for language exchange programs, etc. Americans may wish to contact Interexchange www.interexchange.org, of New York, who run an exchange programme.
Becoming ‘resident’ requires jumping through a few hoops, and only those with a bachelor’s degree can consider applying. The process is made somewhat easier if the applicant also has a TESOL certificate. First, a teacher’s permit needs to be applied for. This will require original certificates of your qualifications, plus copies translated into Greek. You also need to have a medical examination. Once the teacher’s license has come through, the teacher must take it with passport and photos to the police station to apply for a residence permit, which takes about a month, and needs, with the medical, to be renewed annually.
For more information on becoming TESOL certified, visit us here!
TESOL Jobs in Morocco
General Information
Morocco is a widely diverse travel destination. Cities such as Tangier, Casablanca and Marrakech conjure up images of exotic adventures of intrigue. From the hustle and bustle of the souks to the desert calm of the Sahara to the hospitable kindness of the locals, Morocco is definitely a place to spend some time in.
Long are the days of Morocco being soley a Francophone country. Between Marrakesh, alone, having the goal of ten million tourist by 2010 as well as English being required for entrance to universities and access the better jobs. All this adds up to a considerable demand for native English speakers.
Teaching English
Quite unlike Europe, for those wishing to teach in a state or private school, there is not the requirement for a PGCE. You will need a TESOL qualification and you will need to check with the individual school whether they require an undergraduate degree and any teaching experience.
In the major cities there are a considerable number of private language institutes which are worth checking out. Obviously, the biggest demand for English will be in the larger cities however, it is possible to find work in the smaller coastal towns. In the public sector one can expect large classes, with students of a varying degrees of ability within the same class.
Teacher wages in Morocco range anywhere between 7,000 to 12,000 dirhams per month. This is approximately equivalent to 700 to 1200 euros per month. On average, however, expect 900 to 1000 euros per month. For lower wages, often housing and/or other perks are included.
Visas and Regulations
The Moroccan Ministry of Labour stipulates that the maximum number of foreign staff in any organisation cannot exceed fifty percent. It also insists that all foreign teachers have obtained an undergraduate degree before they can be eligible for a work permit but again you should check with the individual school. Work permits are obtained after arrival by applying for authorization from the Ministere de L’Emploi, Quartier des Ministeres, Rabat. You will need copies of your diplomas, birth certificate, etc.
With all this said, once one is off the beaten track, it is not the case that visa regulations are strictly enforced. One should be mindful of what one’s tourist visa entitlements are, and consider how practical it is to renew one’s visa through cross-border trips.
Getting a Job
Before starting out, be sure to obtain a TEFL/TESOL Certificate which is required for securing a job. Visit our site for more information on certification. Once you've successfully completed your certification, finding well-paid work should not be difficult in cities such as Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat and Fes. However, it is strongly suggested that you come to Morocco to find the right job for you. Often by email, we, ESL teachers, are given great promises before we come only to find upon arrival that they are far from true. Doing your job search on site helps distinguish fact from fiction as well as getting a feel for the country and the culture.
To start, you can locate schools in a given city, by looking at the on-line yellow pages or esl job search engines. You can either send a resume and cover letter beforehand to arrange interviews or show up, visit schools and arrange interviews then. What's most important is do not accept any post without visiting the school first and talking to at least one or two of the teachers who work there.
One of the best and most realistic propositions is to build a working life based around constructing a portfolio a few hours here and a few hours there, bearing mind that revenue from ‘one to one lessons’ can double a teacher’s income, one should always be on the lookout for one to one students, whatever one’s employment or visa status. The market for those wanting private tuition or conversation practice is huge, and potentially very lucrative, therefore, not be neglected. Give yourself time to build a portfolio of work. This is best safeguard to both your income, and employment status.
For more information about getting TESOL certified, visit us here!
Morocco is a widely diverse travel destination. Cities such as Tangier, Casablanca and Marrakech conjure up images of exotic adventures of intrigue. From the hustle and bustle of the souks to the desert calm of the Sahara to the hospitable kindness of the locals, Morocco is definitely a place to spend some time in.
Long are the days of Morocco being soley a Francophone country. Between Marrakesh, alone, having the goal of ten million tourist by 2010 as well as English being required for entrance to universities and access the better jobs. All this adds up to a considerable demand for native English speakers.
Teaching English
Quite unlike Europe, for those wishing to teach in a state or private school, there is not the requirement for a PGCE. You will need a TESOL qualification and you will need to check with the individual school whether they require an undergraduate degree and any teaching experience.
In the major cities there are a considerable number of private language institutes which are worth checking out. Obviously, the biggest demand for English will be in the larger cities however, it is possible to find work in the smaller coastal towns. In the public sector one can expect large classes, with students of a varying degrees of ability within the same class.
Teacher wages in Morocco range anywhere between 7,000 to 12,000 dirhams per month. This is approximately equivalent to 700 to 1200 euros per month. On average, however, expect 900 to 1000 euros per month. For lower wages, often housing and/or other perks are included.
Visas and Regulations
The Moroccan Ministry of Labour stipulates that the maximum number of foreign staff in any organisation cannot exceed fifty percent. It also insists that all foreign teachers have obtained an undergraduate degree before they can be eligible for a work permit but again you should check with the individual school. Work permits are obtained after arrival by applying for authorization from the Ministere de L’Emploi, Quartier des Ministeres, Rabat. You will need copies of your diplomas, birth certificate, etc.
With all this said, once one is off the beaten track, it is not the case that visa regulations are strictly enforced. One should be mindful of what one’s tourist visa entitlements are, and consider how practical it is to renew one’s visa through cross-border trips.
Getting a Job
Before starting out, be sure to obtain a TEFL/TESOL Certificate which is required for securing a job. Visit our site for more information on certification. Once you've successfully completed your certification, finding well-paid work should not be difficult in cities such as Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat and Fes. However, it is strongly suggested that you come to Morocco to find the right job for you. Often by email, we, ESL teachers, are given great promises before we come only to find upon arrival that they are far from true. Doing your job search on site helps distinguish fact from fiction as well as getting a feel for the country and the culture.
To start, you can locate schools in a given city, by looking at the on-line yellow pages or esl job search engines. You can either send a resume and cover letter beforehand to arrange interviews or show up, visit schools and arrange interviews then. What's most important is do not accept any post without visiting the school first and talking to at least one or two of the teachers who work there.
One of the best and most realistic propositions is to build a working life based around constructing a portfolio a few hours here and a few hours there, bearing mind that revenue from ‘one to one lessons’ can double a teacher’s income, one should always be on the lookout for one to one students, whatever one’s employment or visa status. The market for those wanting private tuition or conversation practice is huge, and potentially very lucrative, therefore, not be neglected. Give yourself time to build a portfolio of work. This is best safeguard to both your income, and employment status.
For more information about getting TESOL certified, visit us here!
TESOL Jobs in France
General Information
Finding an ESL teaching position in France is not the same as in many other countries. It requires more rigor during the job search and some significant money for the start-up. Despite France's high unemployment rate, it is however possible to secure a job but it will take a bit longer to find. The cities with the strongest demand are Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse and Nice.
Teaching English
Most likely the number one sector where you will find work is with a private English language school. With language institutes you can expect to find yourself teaching business people/ professionals in general, with yourself being referred to as a ‘trainer’ rather than a teacher. Enthusiasm for English is higher in the north of the country near Paris than in the south. However, despite the reluctance of the French to learn English they are beginning to embrace it all over the country because businesses can no longer avoid it.
Visas and Regulations
Most individuals working for institutes are self-employed, or ‘freelance’. Therefore, they are responsible for paying their own tax and social security. New arrivals are required to register with the police, organise a bank account into which their wages will be paid, and get a tax number from their local tax office.
On arrival in France, it is necessary to register as an alien resident within three months of arrival, or as soon as you get a job. This application needs to be made at the local police station where you live. A social security number will be issued to you so that your employer can start making contributions on your behalf.
For non-EU nationals it is difficult to get a work permit, and in no way follows automatically on getting a job offer. But this is not the final word. Many Americans, for example, do indeed teach in France. Often they are part of an exchange program, or they have student status.
Geting a Job
France is not the country to live and work in if you want to spontaneously show up and immediately earn cash. You need a game plan. The first component is where in France, do you want to based? If you want an ESL job, it means you must choose a city where there is a demand for English. Unfortunately, the small romantic village in the middle of the country, where most of us would love to live, has a population with an average age of 60. That means low demand for work, let alone English. You want to be based or live near a large city. Paris is ideal and offers by far the most options for jobs. However, many people don't want to live in a city so large. If you are one of these people, here is the criteria for a workable city(not village)almost anywhere in the world.
1. It has a university- University towns equate with young adults who might need English for their studies, for a semester abroad or just because they enjoy speaking with foreigners.
2. It has an economic center that depends on the international community- Cities with office parks for technology or transportation, for example, are good because it insures a base of young professionals who need English for their job.
3. It is a dynamic city- Cities that are/and promote a cosmopolitan attitude are best because ultimately our potential clients are people who are interested in foreigners or foreign things. Cities or towns where there are already a lot of foreigners and where there is constant change for improvement are ideal.
Next, arm yourself with the appropriate qualifications. As a general rule, ESL employers look for a college degree of any discipline and a TEFL/TESOL certificate. Yes while there are exceptions, lacking one or both of these items makes your task woefully more difficult. For those of you who already have qualifications for teaching in main stream education in your home country, French employers typically disregard them unless said qualifications were obtained in France. (I didn't make the rules...don't shoot the messenger)
With credentials obtained, you would next incorporate them in a C.V. written in French. In most other countries in the world, that I know of, where English is in demand, this is not neccessary... a C.V. in English would be suitable. At any rate, I suggest you have a C.V. and cover letter professionally translated if you are not fluent in French.
Lastly, get the English language school addresses for your target town and send them out. Hiring times are early September, late March/early April. Forget looking for a job in the summer, its vacation time in France.
Ironically, even though a C.V. should be written in French, it is most likely possible that the interview can or will be conducted in English. So you don't need to be a fluent French speaker to get or hold an ESL job.
For more information on getting TESOL certified, visit us here!
Finding an ESL teaching position in France is not the same as in many other countries. It requires more rigor during the job search and some significant money for the start-up. Despite France's high unemployment rate, it is however possible to secure a job but it will take a bit longer to find. The cities with the strongest demand are Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse and Nice.
Teaching English
Most likely the number one sector where you will find work is with a private English language school. With language institutes you can expect to find yourself teaching business people/ professionals in general, with yourself being referred to as a ‘trainer’ rather than a teacher. Enthusiasm for English is higher in the north of the country near Paris than in the south. However, despite the reluctance of the French to learn English they are beginning to embrace it all over the country because businesses can no longer avoid it.
Visas and Regulations
Most individuals working for institutes are self-employed, or ‘freelance’. Therefore, they are responsible for paying their own tax and social security. New arrivals are required to register with the police, organise a bank account into which their wages will be paid, and get a tax number from their local tax office.
On arrival in France, it is necessary to register as an alien resident within three months of arrival, or as soon as you get a job. This application needs to be made at the local police station where you live. A social security number will be issued to you so that your employer can start making contributions on your behalf.
For non-EU nationals it is difficult to get a work permit, and in no way follows automatically on getting a job offer. But this is not the final word. Many Americans, for example, do indeed teach in France. Often they are part of an exchange program, or they have student status.
Geting a Job
France is not the country to live and work in if you want to spontaneously show up and immediately earn cash. You need a game plan. The first component is where in France, do you want to based? If you want an ESL job, it means you must choose a city where there is a demand for English. Unfortunately, the small romantic village in the middle of the country, where most of us would love to live, has a population with an average age of 60. That means low demand for work, let alone English. You want to be based or live near a large city. Paris is ideal and offers by far the most options for jobs. However, many people don't want to live in a city so large. If you are one of these people, here is the criteria for a workable city(not village)almost anywhere in the world.
1. It has a university- University towns equate with young adults who might need English for their studies, for a semester abroad or just because they enjoy speaking with foreigners.
2. It has an economic center that depends on the international community- Cities with office parks for technology or transportation, for example, are good because it insures a base of young professionals who need English for their job.
3. It is a dynamic city- Cities that are/and promote a cosmopolitan attitude are best because ultimately our potential clients are people who are interested in foreigners or foreign things. Cities or towns where there are already a lot of foreigners and where there is constant change for improvement are ideal.
Next, arm yourself with the appropriate qualifications. As a general rule, ESL employers look for a college degree of any discipline and a TEFL/TESOL certificate. Yes while there are exceptions, lacking one or both of these items makes your task woefully more difficult. For those of you who already have qualifications for teaching in main stream education in your home country, French employers typically disregard them unless said qualifications were obtained in France. (I didn't make the rules...don't shoot the messenger)
With credentials obtained, you would next incorporate them in a C.V. written in French. In most other countries in the world, that I know of, where English is in demand, this is not neccessary... a C.V. in English would be suitable. At any rate, I suggest you have a C.V. and cover letter professionally translated if you are not fluent in French.
Lastly, get the English language school addresses for your target town and send them out. Hiring times are early September, late March/early April. Forget looking for a job in the summer, its vacation time in France.
Ironically, even though a C.V. should be written in French, it is most likely possible that the interview can or will be conducted in English. So you don't need to be a fluent French speaker to get or hold an ESL job.
For more information on getting TESOL certified, visit us here!
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