How do I find a job teaching English in France?
To find a job teaching English in France, a top destination for ESL teachers, follow these key steps:
- Obtain Necessary Qualifications: Ensure you have a TESOL certification. A university degree is also often expected by employers in France.
- Explore Job Listings: Use specialized ESL job websites, forums, and social media groups focused on teaching English in France.
- Network: Connect with current or former ESL teachers in France for insights and job leads.
- Consider Government Programs: Look into French government-sponsored teaching assistant programs, ideal for those starting in the field.
- Prepare Your Application: Update your CV and cover letter to align with the French educational context.
- Understand Visa Requirements: Research visa and work permit processes for teaching in France.
Table of Contents
What are the basic requirements for teaching English in France?
What is the best way to apply for jobs teaching English in France?
When is the best time to apply for jobs teaching English in France?
What visa will I need to teach English in France?
How much money will I need to start teaching English in France?
What can I do to ensure I find a good job teaching English in France?
Can I earn extra money working as a private English tutor in France?
What are the basic requirements for teaching English in France?
In France, the fundamental requirements for teaching English include a TESOL certification, which is a standard expectation among employers. This certification is crucial in what is a very competitive job market. Besides TESOL certification, having a university degree, particularly in Education or English, can significantly enhance job prospects. Additionally, proficiency in English is essential, and while not always required, having a basic understanding of French is beneficial for communication and integration purposes. These qualifications collectively form the baseline for candidates looking to teach English in France, and not having them, especially the TESOL certification, can be a considerable disadvantage in the job search.
What is the best way to apply for jobs teaching English in France?
The optimal strategy for applying for jobs teaching English in France involves two primary approaches. Firstly, consider applying for the government-run TAPIF (Teaching Assistant Program in France). This program arranges everything for successful applicants, including placement and logistics, without the need for them to be in France. It is a structured route that provides an excellent entry point into teaching in France.
Secondly, for those seeking employment outside of government programs, many independent schools and language institutes in France prefer to conduct face-to-face interviews. Therefore, arriving in France and directly visiting potential employers can be a highly effective method. This approach requires initiative and readiness to engage with schools and language centers in person. Despite being potentially daunting, this method often yields quick results due to the high demand for English teachers, especially in urban and touristic areas.
When is the best time to apply for jobs teaching English in France?
For those seeking to work as private English tutors in France, the job market is flexible, allowing you to start at almost any time of the year. However, for full-time positions in language schools, the optimal times to apply are specific. The prime window for these applications is from late August to early October. During this period, schools are actively looking to fill vacancies left by teachers at the end of the previous academic year. Another opportune time is in January, when a smaller number of positions typically open up. These two periods align with the French academic calendar and represent the times when schools are most likely to be seeking new teaching staff.
What visa will I need to teach English in France?
To teach English in France, the visa requirements differ based on your nationality. EU citizens have the advantage as they do not require a visa to live and work in France. For non-EU citizens, obtaining an official work permit can be challenging. Working on a tourist visa is technically illegal and it is not recommended due to legal risks. There are several legal alternatives for non-EU citizens:
- Student Visa: Enrolling in a government-approved French language course can make you eligible for a student visa. This visa allows you to work as a teacher for up to 20 hours per week.
- Working Holiday Visa: Available for citizens of Canada, Australia, and New Zealand aged between 18-30 years. This one-year visa permits a certain level of employment but comes with specific restrictions, so it is crucial to consult a French embassy or consulate for details.
How much money will I need to start teaching English in France?
For many teachers, it is necessary to travel to France without having a job in place. Although this is a common approach to finding a good job and most teachers have little trouble sorting something out quite quickly, you will need to have sufficient funds to see you through to your first paycheck. In most cases, a budget of $2000 to $3000 US dollars would be advisable.
What can I do to ensure I find a good job teaching English in France?
To give yourself the best chance of landing a good teaching job in France you should contact as many potential employers as you can find in your chosen area, regardless of whether they are actually advertising vacant positions or not. You should be able to find all the possible options via the local Yellow Pages, an online search, or by speaking to teachers in the area. The best approach is to actually visit them all in person rather than by email as this gives you a chance to make a good first impression and to sell yourself. Having a copy of your CV/resume and cover letter in French that you can leave behind with each employer can also be beneficial.
Can I earn extra money working as a private English tutor in France?
Yes, working as a private English tutor in France can be a viable way to earn extra money, especially for first-time teachers or those with part-time positions in language schools. The demand for private English tutors is notably high in major cities. To promote your tutoring services, you can use various methods:
- Notice Boards: Post your services in community centers, libraries, or universities.
- Local Newspapers: Advertise in local newspapers which often have sections for services.
- Word of Mouth: Utilize your network and get referrals from students or other contacts.
Building a regular client base for private tutoring may take some time, but even a few extra hours of tutoring per week can substantially augment your overall income. This supplementary work offers both financial benefits and the opportunity to deepen your teaching experience.
