Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is an adventure that can take you around the world, connecting you with people from diverse backgrounds, and opening up a world of opportunities. However, like any job, TEFL teaching comes with its own set of pros and cons. In this post I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of TEFL teaching, as well as some of the certificates you can pursue to kickstart your career. I have taught TELF in Thailand, and I have a 120 hour TEFL certificate. I was a volunteer teacher in schools and at an orphanage in an area that was hit badly by the Tsunami. There are many volunteer opportunities as well as paid employment.
Pros of TEFL Teaching:
Travel and Cultural Immersion:
TEFL teaching offers the chance to explore new countries and cultures. You get to live like a local and immerse yourself in the traditions and customs of your host country.
Job Opportunities: The demand for English teachers worldwide is consistently high. This means that there are numerous job opportunities available, whether you want to teach in Asia, Europe, or South America. There are also opportunities for teaching online. I was teaching online with Palfish and other platforms during the Covid period. It was great as I could teach from anywhere from my iPad and even my mobile phone. However, there are not as many online opportunities as there used to be as China has introduced a ban on online English teaching.
Flexible Career: TEFL teaching can be a stepping stone or a lifelong career. It's a versatile job that allows you to take breaks between contracts, change locations, or even specialize in a specific area like business English.
Personal Growth: Teaching English to non-native speakers can be a deeply rewarding experience. You'll develop strong communication and problem-solving skills, and you'll witness your students' progress, which can be incredibly fulfilling.
Cons of TEFL Teaching:
Lack of Job Security: Many TEFL positions are contract-based, which can lead to uncertainty and instability. Job security may be a concern, especially in seasonal or highly competitive job markets.
Varied Work Conditions: TEFL jobs can vary widely in terms of work hours, pay, and living conditions. It's essential to research and carefully consider the specific job you're interested in.
Culture Shock: Adapting to a new culture and language can be challenging. Culture shock is a real phenomenon that can affect your overall well-being and job satisfaction.
Lack of Benefits: TEFL positions often don't come with the same benefits as jobs in your home country, such as health insurance or retirement plans. You'll need to plan for these aspects independently.
Certificates for TEFL Teaching:
TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language): The most common certificate for TEFL teaching, it covers the basics of teaching English to non-native speakers. A standard TEFL certification is typically 120 hours.
CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults): A more advanced and internationally recognized qualification, the CELTA is administered by Cambridge University. It's an-depth program that focuses on practical teaching skills.
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages): TESOL is a broader certification that encompasses both TEFL and TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language). It's often required for teaching in the United States.
Online TEFL Certificates: Many online TEFL courses offer flexibility and affordability. While not as highly regarded as in-person certificates, they can still be valuable, especially if you're looking for entry-level positions. There are many employers who will accept these certificates.
If you are interested in working in an international school teaching English to learners of an additional language then a degree is normally needed. Most good schools would expect you to have a CELTA or recognised TEFL where you had classroom experience placements. The good international schools would normally expect you to have a couple of years at least of teaching experience also.
In conclusion, TEFL teaching can be an exciting and enriching career choice, but it's not without its challenges. It's crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully, considering your personal circumstances and career goals. Additionally, choosing the right TEFL certificate can significantly impact your job prospects and teaching abilities, so research your options thoroughly before embarking on your TEFL journey. Whether you're passionate about education, travel, or both, TEFL teaching can be a fulfilling way to make a positive impact in the world while embarking on your own unique adventure.
Thailand - My students prepared flowers for us on Teacher Day. How sweet is that!
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