For those passionate about teaching English and enamored by Spain's rich culture, vibrant cities, and picturesque coastlines, securing a position in Spain can be a dream come true. To increase your chances of finding a teaching job in this sought-after destination, consider these steps:
- Earn a TEFL Certification: Ensure you are equipped with the right qualifications.
- Visit Spain: Being on the ground can open up more opportunities and show commitment.
- Stay Updated on Hiring Seasons: Align your job hunt with peak hiring times.
- Target Major Cities: Places like Madrid and Barcelona often have a higher demand for teachers.
- Network: Leverage connections, both personal and professional.
- Get a Local Contact Number: Makes it easier for potential employers to reach you.
- Keep an Updated Resume: Highlight relevant experience and qualifications.
- Utilize Local TEFL Resources: From job boards to local agencies, exhaust all avenues.
Embarking on this journey not only offers a chance to teach but also to immerse oneself in Spain's rich tapestry of history, language, and culture.
Table of Contents
What are the basic requirements for teaching English in Spain?
What is the best way to apply for jobs teaching English in Spain?
When is the best time to apply for jobs teaching English in Spain?
Where are the best places to apply for jobs teaching English in Spain?
What visa will I need to teach English in Spain?
How much money will I need to start teaching English in Spain?
What can I do to ensure I find a good job teaching English in Spain?
What are the basic requirements for teaching English in Spain?
If you are serious about living and working as an ESL teacher in Spain, the first thing you will need to do is complete a TEFL certification course. Without a TEFL certificate you will find it difficult to secure a well paid teaching job anywhere in the country.
What is the best way to apply for jobs teaching English in Spain?
Thanks to a government recruitment program it is possible for a relatively small number of teachers to secure a job in Spain from within their own country. However, the vast majority of teaching jobs are filled locally by interviewing face-to-face. For the best chance of success you should simply jump on a plane to your city of choice and immediately start applying for vacant positions. The thought of heading overseas without a job waiting for you might be a little scary, but don't be put off as the high demand for teachers means you are virtually guaranteed a position if you are well prepared and determined to succeed.
When is the best time to apply for jobs teaching English in Spain?
For aspiring ESL teachers aiming for Spain, timing is essential. The prime hiring window starts in mid-September, aligning with the onset of the new academic year. During this period, numerous positions emerge, catering to the influx of students. Following this, a secondary recruitment phase kicks off in early January, continuing throughout the month. By aligning your application process with these periods, you increase the likelihood of securing a desirable teaching position in Spain's thriving ESL market.
Where are the best places to apply for jobs teaching English in Spain?
For ESL teachers eyeing Spain, it is important to know the hotspots. While Spain boasts a sprawling landscape, the bulk of English teaching opportunities are concentrated in a select few urban hubs. Madrid tops the list, with its peak recruitment in early October. Following closely are vibrant cities like Barcelona, Bilbao, Seville, and Valencia all of which present substantial job markets for aspiring English educators. Targeting these cities can maximize your chances of landing a coveted teaching position in Spain.
What visa will I need to teach English in Spain?
Spain, being a part of the EU, offers a straightforward process for EU citizens: no visa or work permit is required. For those outside the EU, navigating the work visa maze can be daunting. Many choose the simpler route of working on a tourist visa, albeit unofficially. While this method is widespread, it is important to note that it is not officially sanctioned. A more legitimate route for non-EU nationals is a student visa. By enrolling in a government-recognized program, often a Spanish language course, this visa permits teaching English part-time, up to 20 hours a week.
How much money will I need to start teaching English in Spain?
To embark on a teaching journey in Spain, it is crucial to be financially prepared before arriving. Typically, job seekers find positions after they have landed in Spain, necessitating a financial cushion to support themselves until they secure employment. On average, it takes about two to six weeks to secure a job. Therefore, you should budget for approximately four to six weeks of living costs, which translates to an estimated range of $2,000 to $3,000 US. Having this reserve ensures a smoother transition into your new teaching career in Spain.
What can I do to ensure I find a good job teaching English in Spain?
Although few employers in Spain advertise and recruit from abroad, it is still worth checking online ESL job forums before you leave. Even if you cannot secure a job, you might be able to line up some interviews in advance. Once you arrive in Spain it is time to get busy contacting as many schools as possible in your chosen area. The Madrid Blue Pages is a useful reference guide for finding contact information, as are the Yellow Pages, English and Spanish language newspapers, and online searches. To enhance your chances of securing an interview, it is important that you send a professional looking CV/resume and cover letter to potential employers. It might also be an advantage if you have them translated into Spanish. Another good idea is to buy a phone or SIM card on arrival so you can provide a local contact number. Finally, always make sure you present yourself in a smart and professional manner when meeting employers, as anything less is guaranteed to ruin your chances of landing a dream job teaching English in Spain.
