If you're thinking of teaching English in Spain, read these articles first, adventure later.
This may be a discouraging but realistic perspective on TEFL/TESOL English teaching in Spain.
Teaching English in Spain can be hazardous to your health. If you’re expecting open arms and a fabulous lifestyle on the Mediterranean or la mesita, then think again. Although Spain has one of the least foreign language speaking populations in the EU (only the UK, Ireland and Greece are further behind) and according to the EU, only 18% of Spaniards speak English with a “conversational ability”, there remain plenty of barriers to cross; teachers from non-EU countries are often said to be among the most effective teachers but find it nearly impossible to find work in a language school, making teachers from the UK in high demand, despite qualifications (of course many of them are excellent teachers). The English teaching market won’t find itself saturated any time soon and Spain will likely remain behind due to this lack of opportunity.
This may be a discouraging but realistic perspective on TEFL/TESOL English teaching in Spain, but this series of articles will be specifically targeted to the non-EU expat heading out for an English teaching position in Spain. Through the cynicism and resentment (having been an English teacher in Spain), I’ll try to provide what help, lessons learnt and resources found as I’ve managed to collect during my time teaching to ensure your experience, or at least your decision whether or not to teach in Spain, is easier.
Then again, if you’re just out for the adventure of *wow* teaching English in Spain *how romantic*, move along, and get with the adventuring already!
See the following articles in our series of five to teach english in Spain. Non-EU teachers, pay attention to The To Do List for Teaching in Spain, Teach Private Classes and Teaching in the Black.
