How do I become an ESL teacher in the UK?
To become an ESL teacher in the UK, several key steps are involved. Firstly, obtaining a TESOL or equivalent qualification is essential, as it is a standard requirement for most ESL teaching positions. Additionally, if you are not a UK citizen, you will need to consider visa regulations and work permits, as these are crucial for legally working in the country. It is also advisable to research the job market for ESL teachers in the UK, as opportunities can differ across various regions, with cities like London often having a higher demand.
Table of Contents
What are the difficulties of teaching English in the UK?
How can I get a work permit to teach English in the UK?
Can I get a working holiday visa and teach English in the UK?
Can I earn a comfortable living teaching English in the UK?
What should I do if I can't find a job teaching English in the UK?
What are the difficulties of teaching English in the UK?
Teaching English in the UK presents specific challenges. One primary difficulty is the intense competition for positions, especially in areas with high immigration and significant refugee populations. These regions often have a greater demand for English language teachers to assist newcomers. However, most of these teaching roles are quickly filled by local educators, including newly graduated TESOL trainees and experienced teachers returning from abroad. Another significant challenge for foreign teachers is navigating the UK's work permit and visa system, which can be a complex and daunting process. While there are sometimes alternative routes to securing employment, understanding and complying with legal work requirements remains a major hurdle for non-UK teachers aspiring to work in the country.
How can I get a work permit to teach English in the UK?
One way that some foreign nationals gain access to the job market in the UK is via marriage to a local citizen or if your partner is posted to the UK through their job. If this applies to you, you should find you are eligible to apply for ESL teaching jobs providing you have the qualifications and experience that the job is asking for. It is common for the employer to ask for a degree and a TESOL certification. Previous classroom experience is also likely to be required.
Can I get a working holiday visa and teach English in the UK?
A working holiday visa is a possible option if you want to head to the UK and teach ESL. Some English speaking countries have reciprocal arrangements that allow citizens to spend one or two years in each other's countries, although certain restrictions often apply. Applications for this type of visa usually need to be made from your home country before you leave. In many cases these schemes are restricted to people aged from 18 to 30/35, and you might well be limited to the amount of time you can spend with one employer. Proof of sufficient finances is also a common requirement. Citizens of Australia and New Zealand are likely to have the best chance of landing a working holiday visa to the UK, but it is worth checking with your nearest embassy to find out the current options no matter where you are from.
Can I earn a comfortable living teaching English in the UK?
As mentioned, the demand for TESOL qualified teachers is relatively high in the UK. However, the competition for each vacant position is equally high which is not great news for foreign nationals. Many of the available jobs are also part-time and the salaries can be relatively low, which can make it difficult to support a comfortable lifestyle without taking on some other work. The cost of living is also high in the UK, which also has an impact on the quality of life you can expect. Positions in private schools are often an exception to the rule, however, these are not easy to find and you would certainly require a high level of qualifications and experience to be considered.
What should I do if I can't find a job teaching English in the UK?
If you find that your options for teaching English in the UK are limited, do not despair as there are plenty of other great teaching locations worldwide where jobs are much easier to find. The bottom line is that the vast majority of ESL teachers work in countries where English is not the official language. If you find the idea of teaching in a country where you are not familiar with the language daunting, there really is no need as you will learn all the skills and techniques necessary to be a successful ESL teacher anywhere in the world during your TESOL course training.
