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English as a foreign language teacher : Salary and conditions

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Case studies

  • For teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) full time in a UK commercial language school, typical starting salaries are £13,000 - £18,000, and for senior posts and experienced teachers, £18,000 - £30,000. However, UK-based teachers are often paid an hourly or weekly rate and employed on a monthly basis and much of the work is seasonal, with peaks over the summer.
  • Salaries overseas vary considerably, depending on the nature of the post and its location, but are generally lower in more popular destinations. Well-qualified teachers are always in demand.
  • Jobs in the European Union (EU) , teaching English to professionals, can be well paid.
  • Some TEFL work is done on a voluntary basis, sometimes in exchange for board and lodging.
  • Some contracts include return flights, accommodation and extra bonuses.
  • The majority of EFL teachers work overseas, many on fixed-term contracts of between nine months and two years. Some obtain permanent employment, but most work for several employers on a succession of limited contracts. Many teachers work overseas for the academic year (September to June) and then teach English in the UK peak season in July and August. Summer courses usually provide free or subsidised board and lodging. Check contracts closely for details of holiday and sickness pay (EFL-LAW.com  is a useful resource).
  • Working hours vary considerably between employers and may include evening and weekend work. Teaching in private schools may take place after normal schools hours to widen access.
  • Teachers are based in a classroom for most of the time but may also be expected to take part in social activities, sometimes in the evenings and at weekends, especially on summer courses for teenagers.
  • Self-employment and freelance work are commonly possible. Many teachers supplement their salary by offering one-to-one tuition after school hours. Some schools do not allow this, so check before you commit yourself. In addition, a lot of short-term contracts are available and part-time and part-year work is also possible. 
  • Women are well represented, although some countries may have a preference for men or married couples for religious or cultural reasons. In some Middle Eastern countries, single-sex teaching settings are common.
  • There is a high demand for qualified EFL teachers to work in the UK, but competition is keen for permanent or long-term posts.
 
AGCAS
Written by AGCAS editors
Date: 
August 2010
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