Can I teach English abroad in my gap year?
Yes, teaching English abroad is a viable and rewarding option for those considering a gap year. Whether you have just finished high school or university, or you are seeking a break from your regular work routine, a gap year presents an excellent opportunity to explore new cultures while gaining valuable experience. Teaching English during this period doesn't typically require prior teaching experience. Pursuing a TESOL certification, which can be completed in a relatively short time, often suffices to secure a teaching position abroad. Courses like the 120-hour TEFL certification are specifically designed to prepare you for teaching English in foreign countries. This experience not only enriches your gap year but also provides practical skills and cultural insights that can be invaluable for your future career or educational endeavors.
Table of Contents
Why should you teach English abroad during your gap year?
How should I prepare for my gap year?
How do I find a suitable TESOL job?
What about teaching English online?
What are the benefits of teaching English abroad in your gap year?
Why should you teach English abroad during your gap year?
Teaching English abroad during a gap year is a multifaceted experience that goes beyond simply earning money while traveling. Key reasons why it is a rewarding choice include:
- Financial Independence: It provides an opportunity to earn while exploring different parts of the world.
- Cultural Immersion: Teaching abroad offers a unique experience far deeper than that of a conventional tourist, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in local cultures.
- Global Connections: You will meet a diverse range of people from all over the world, enriching your global perspective and social network.
- Flexibility: TESOL jobs typically offer the flexibility to move between locations, giving you the freedom to explore various regions.
- Skill Development: This experience hones a wide array of transferable skills, including communication, interpersonal skills, and adaptability, which are valuable in numerous professions.
- Potential Career Pathway: For some, teaching English abroad opens the door to a long-term career in education or related fields.
Teaching English during a gap year is more than a stop-gap; it is an enriching journey that offers professional and personal growth.
Also read: Can I teach English abroad without a degree?
How should I prepare for my gap year?
Your first significant step before embarking on this journey should be to complete a reputable TESOL certification course. This will equip you with the necessary skills to handle the initial few weeks in the classroom. A TESOL certificate, valid for life, opens the door to quality teaching jobs in virtually any country. These courses can be completed online, in a classroom setting, or through a blend of both, often while you are still studying or working, ensuring no lost time or money.
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Once you have earned your TESOL certification, you can begin scouting for potential jobs. It is crucial to do your own research as different countries have varying rules regarding work permits or visas. Also, bear in mind that some countries or employers prefer hiring native English speakers. However, you needn't speak any language other than English, as your TESOL course will train you to employ the immersion method of teaching, which exclusively involves English.
Also read: Where can I teach English abroad as a non-native speaker?
How do I find a suitable TESOL job?
First, determine your desired work and living location(s), and then begin scouring job boards for opportunities in these areas. The process typically involves submitting a CV, cover letter, and application form. After applying, await the employers' responses, which might be followed by an online interview and possibly a demo lesson or video introduction. If successful, you will receive a contract to sign, and then it's time to arrange your travels.
Most TESOL job contracts span 12 months, providing a rich immersion in the local culture. For a shorter stay or frequent moves, consider summer schools or camps, with contracts ranging from four to twelve weeks.
Also read: Can I teach English abroad in the summer?
What about teaching English online?
Teaching English online is another popular option that offers the flexibility to work from anywhere with a strong internet connection, unrestricted by a fixed schedule.
Also read: What is the best platform to teach English online?
What are the benefits of teaching English abroad in your gap year?
Teaching English during a gap year is, at its core, an adventure. It allows you to explore captivating countries, meet remarkable people, and create a trove of unforgettable memories. Moreover, international work and travel experiences are appealing to potential employers, reflecting your independence, adaptability, responsibility, and organization. Some people enjoy teaching English so much that it becomes their long-term career.
