Teaching English as a foreign language gives young South Africans a passport to the world. Packing up and moving across the globe can be daunting, but the experience sparks a sense of adventure and can drive personal growth. To help potential teachers find their best-suited destination, The TEFL Academy, South Africa’s leading course provider of teaching English as a foreign language, has launched the world’s first Factbook, a comprehensive guide for teaching abroad.
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‘We want to equip young professionals with all the information they need before setting off,’ says Rhyan O’Sullivan, Managing Director of The TEFL Academy. Profiling over 100 countries, the Factbook covers all the key facts that TEFL teachers need to know before they decide where they want to teach. This includes average pay, cost of living, types of learners, working environment and weather conditions. The guide also outlines the average price of a beer and what local foods to try.
These there the top five countries that South African TEFL teachers choose:
1. China
China’s cultural and historical landscape is vast to say the least, and there’s tons to discover. From the ultra-modern cities of Beijing and Shanghai to the striking hills of Guilin, Chinese students are interested in learning English for business, academic purposes and general conversation. China boasts some of the highest-paying teaching positions internationally, averaging between R18,000 and R40,000.
2. Vietnam
From the rice field terraces to the breathtaking coastlines, Vietnam is for teachers seeking inspiration and exceptional beauty. The country’s growing tourism industry has encouraged locals to learn business English to keep up with the growing economy. The cost of living is relatively cheap, so the teaching salaries accommodate travelling around the country and a comfortable lifestyle.
3. South Korea
As one of the most exciting countries in Asia, South Korea offers bustling cities, peaceful mountains and national parks. Historical sites, such as palaces and museums, live alongside contemporary attractions such as massive shopping malls and busy restaurants. Teachers looking to save money or pay back student loans should consider taking up positions on this island nation – most schools will reimburse flights and offer accommodation, paid holidays and an annual bonus.
4. Thailand
The land of sunshine and smiles boasts both a warm climate and friendly locals. Thailand is an excellent place for newly qualified teachers to learn and hone their teaching skills due to the slower pace of life. It also has many places to explore, including the nightlife of Bangkok, the beaches of Phuket and the floating markets of Hua Hin.
5. Spain
Home to Pablo Picasso and Flamenco dancers, the country has a passionate and vibrant soul. The demand for English in Spain is high, with a variety of opportunities to choose from. With superb beaches such as Malaga and Huelva and the distinctive architecture of Barcelona, teachers can explore the country while working in summer camps, as language assistants and through private school teaching. Thailand is also suitable for travellers who want to teach but do not have a university degree, and teachers looking for a shorter time abroad.
Offering accessible, flexible and cost-effective ways to get TEFL-qualified, The TEFL Academy is internationally accredited and regulated. Compiled by a team of researchers and consulting authoritative sources in each country, The World TEFL Factbook can be used by teachers and interested parties, and is available to download from the TEFL Academy’s website.
Featured image: Kati Auld, Thailand
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