The COVID-19 pandemic has upended life as we know it. In the blink of an eye, our world around us has changed. As a result, many of us have adapted to a new way of living. For some, this has meant working from the comfort of their own homes. For others, it is meant being unemployed or furloughed.
However, some have been affected in a much more profound way. For them, the pandemic has meant losing their jobs. While it has been a tough time for everyone, those who lost their jobs struggle the most.
But there is some good news. The teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) industry has been booming despite the pandemic. In fact, many schools and universities are looking for English teachers right now.
Photo credit to Atikh Bana on Unsplash
So, if you are considering a career in teaching English abroad, now is the time to do it. Here are 5 reasons why teaching English abroad is a great career post-COVID:
It is a Rewarding Career
There is no doubt about it that teaching English can be a rewarding career. Not only do you get to help others learn a new language, but you also get to experience different cultures first-hand. What could be more rewarding than that?
It is relatively easy to get started as an English teacher. Most organizations prefer teachers with a college degree and a TEFL certification, except in some countries like China. While you may not need the experience to get started, having some classroom experience under your belt will certainly help.
There are many TEFL programs that one can choose from. So finding one that is right for you should not be too difficult. Out of the many TEFL certifications out there, we recommend getting a 120-hour certification with at least 6 hours of observed teaching practice. This will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful English teacher.
It is a Great Way to See the World
If you have ever wanted to travel the world, teaching English is a great way to do it. Not only will you live in different countries, but you will also experience different cultures and meet new people. You can live and work in exciting places like Thailand, China, Spain, or Argentina. Also, you can often work remotely, which gives you the flexibility to travel and see different places while you work.
Teaching English is a great option if you want to travel while making extra money. Since most teaching jobs last 1-2 years, you will have plenty of time to explore your new home. In addition, many teachers save enough money to travel or live comfortably for months after their contract ends. In fact, some even use teaching as a way to fund their travels.
While salaries will vary depending on the country you teach in, most teachers can expect to earn enough to cover their living expenses and sometimes save enough to travel. For example, teachers in countries like China and Thailand can save up to $500 – $1,000 per month. So, if you are looking for a way to travel the world and get paid to do it, teaching English is a great option.
It is a Challenging Career
Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) is an incredibly rewarding but challenging career. On one hand, it offers the opportunity to live and work in various countries, meet new people, and learn about other cultures. On the other hand, it can be demanding, exhausting, and frustrating at times. It requires patience, adaptability, and a sense of humor.
Nevertheless, for those who are up for the challenge, TEFL can be an exceptionally gratifying experience. With the right attitude, it can be an enriching way to see the world and make a difference in the lives of others.
There is nothing quite like the feeling of seeing your students make progress and reach their goals. However, every job has challenges, and teaching English is no different. One of the biggest challenges you will face is dealing with large class sizes. In some countries, it is not uncommon to have classes with 40 or more students. But do not let that discourage you. With patience and creativity, you can manage large class sizes effectively.
In most countries, you will get enough help and assistance from your fellow teachers and your school’s administration to make your job easier. You will also benefit from the flexible nature that the job demands. Most jobs offer 20-25 hours of work per week, leaving plenty of time to explore your new city, take classes, or learn a new language.
You Can Make a Difference
When you teach English abroad, you have the opportunity to make a real difference in someone’s life. Helping someone learn a new language opens up a whole world of possibilities for them. You are allowing them to communicate with people from all over the world and access new opportunities they would not have had before. In many cases, you will teach people eager to learn and motivated to succeed.
It is gratifying to know that you have helped someone improve their communication skills and connect with the global community. So many English teachers find that their students are some of the most grateful and appreciative people they have ever met.
So, teaching English is an excellent option if you are looking for a job that allows you to make a difference.
It is a Great Way to Meet New People
One of the best things about teaching English is that it is a great way to meet new people. When you live and work in a foreign country, you will inevitably meet many new people, both locals, and foreigners. In most cases, you will work with fellow teachers, giving you plenty of opportunities to make friends and socialize.
You will also have the opportunity to meet lots of different students from all over the world. In addition, many of your students will be eager to practice their English with you and learn more about your culture. So, if you are looking for a job that allows you to meet new people and make friends, teaching English is a great option.
Summary:
- The global demand for English teachers is higher than ever before.
- Teaching English abroad can be an excellent way to earn a good salary while living in an amazing location.
- Many countries are now offering online teaching opportunities so that you can teach from anywhere in the world.
- You can gain valuable experience and skills by teaching English abroad, which will benefit your future career.
- There are many English teaching jobs available to find the perfect position for your interests and skill set.
Teaching English abroad has always been a popular choice for professionals, students, and career changers alike. Moreover, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is an even more attractive option for those looking for a safe, secure, and rewarding job.
Conclusion: Learning English is in high demand worldwide, and plenty of English teaching opportunities will be available for qualified people. So, if you are looking for a way to travel the world and meet new people, teaching English is a great option. With so many benefits, it is no wonder that more and more people are choosing to teach English abroad. Furthermore, the CoVID-19 pandemic has created even more opportunities for those who want to work remotely. So, if you are looking for a rewarding and exciting job, teaching English is a great option.
This article was originally published in Aug-2022 and was last updated in Nov-2022.
Author: Amy Heath
