Latest news: Rise in TEFL students

TEFL course provider i-to-i has published a free eBook to help graduates learn about the opportunities to teach English as a foreign language. 10/09/2012

The Graduate's Guide to Teaching and Travelling Abroad was produced as a result of a high increase in the number of graduates and students enrolling on i-to-i's TEFL courses.

The rise could be due to graduates trying to escape the high unemployment levels in the UK. A study by the Higher Education Careers Services Unit (HECSU) showed that 8.5% of the class of 2011 were out of work six months after graduating.

Graduate Rachel Marriott decided to get TEFL certified after she found her 2:1 degree wasn't enough to secure her a job she was passionate about. She now teaches English in Asan, South Korea.

'Teaching overseas is a great opportunity to travel, make lifelong friends and do something that can really change a child's life, no matter whether it’s a Korean student or an African orphan,' she explains.

'Being a TEFL teacher is a rewarding job and something I never thought I would be so passionate about.'

With over 2 billion people learning English worldwide, the demand for native English speakers like Rachel to teach English overseas is huge. This is particularly true in countries such as China, South Korea and Thailand.

It's a tempting option for graduates as there is no need for teaching experience or the ability to speak another language. All it takes is a TEFL course to get started. It is also a fantastic way to gain work experience and fund travels abroad.

For more information about teaching overseas contact one of i-to-i's advisers on 0113 205 4623 or visit i-to-i TEFL - Teach English Abroad.