TEACHING ENGLISH
Teaching jobs abroad are rarely well-paid, although some private American schools can pay competitive salaries. Volunteering as a teacher is also a popular option; programs often provide a daily stipend to help with living expenses. In almost all cases, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree to be a full-fledged teacher, although college undergraduates can get summer positions tutoring.
Many schools require teachers to have a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate. This does not necessarily exclude you from finding a teach ing job, but certified teachers often find higher paying jobs. Native English speakers working in private schools are most often hired for immersion class-rooms where only English is spoken. Those volunteering or teaching in public schools, or poorer areas, are more likely to be working in both English and the local language. Placement agencies or university fellowship programs are the best resources for finding teaching jobs in Europe. The alternative is to make contacts directly with schools or just to try your luck once you get there. The fol lowing organizations specialize in placing teachers in Europe.
Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship, U.S. Student Programs Division, Institute of International Education, 809 United Nations Plaza, New York, NY 10017-3580 (®212- 984-5330; www.fulbrightexchanges.org). Competitive program sends college graduates to teach in Switzerland.
International Schools Services (ISS), 15 Roszel Rd., Box 5910, Princeton, NJ 08543 (s609-452-0990; www.iss.edu). Hires teachers for more than 200 schools worldwide. Teaching experience recommended. 2-year commitment expected.
Office of Overseas Schools, US Department of State, Rm. H328, SA-1, Washington, DC 20522 (®202-261-8200; www.state.goV/m/a/os/c6776.htm). Maintains a list of schools and agencies that arrange placement for Americans to teach abroad.
Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), TEFL Professional Network Ltd., 72 Pentyla Baglan Rd., Port Talbot SA12 8AD, UK (www.tefl.com). Maintains the most extensive database of openings throughout Europe. Offers job training and certification.
