As a TEFL teacher, there are many different teaching opportunities available to you. Many TEFL teachers choose to teach English in schools, universities or language centres. In these cases, they apply directly to the employer.
However, it is also possible to get a TEFL job through a governmental programme. These programmes take a lot of the guesswork out of applying for TEFL jobs. The requirements are very clear and the application process is straightforward. Your salary and working conditions are clearly outlined for you from the start.
Once you have been accepted on a programme, you will be placed in a school. In other words, often you are not given the choice of teaching location within a certain country, though you are usually allowed to give preferences.
The major benefit of these programmes is the support you receive. You are assisted in booking flights and organising your visa. Plus, when you arrive you are met at the airport, provided with accommodation, given orientation, training and even sometimes language lessons.
Popular programmes include:
- JET (Japan)
- EPIK (South Korea)
- TaLK (South Korea)
- TAPIF (France)
- ConversaSpain (Spain)
- Teach and Learn with Georgia (Georgia)
- English Open Doors Programme (Chile)