Are you looking for a rewarding adventure that combines exploring new cultures, teaching English as a foreign language, and having the opportunity to travel throughout Europe? Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) in Europe is an incredible experience that will provide you with the chance to discover new cultures and make a real difference in the lives of your students. Let’s explore TEFL in Europe through five countries: Spain, Italy, Germany, Romania and Poland. We’ll teach you all bout the teaching requirements, living conditions, and culture of each country as well as get tips for teaching English to foreign students. Time to learn all about one of your next TEFL destinations!
Spain
Spain is a vibrant country in Southern Europe, with beautiful cities, incredible beaches and a culture that is steeped in history. Teaching English in Spain is a great way to experience the country‘s culture while making an important contribution to the lives of your students.
Teaching Requirements
To teach English in Spain, you must be a native English speaker and have a TEFL certification. You don‘t need to speak Spanish as many of your students will already be proficient in the language, however it is recommended that you learn some basic Spanish phrases so you can communicate with your students.
Living Conditions
The cost of living in Spain is generally lower than in other European countries and you can find affordable accommodation in most cities. Public transportation is also very affordable and the country has an excellent public transportation system, so you can easily get from beach to beach!
Culture
The Spanish culture is known for its warmth and hospitality. Spaniards are very friendly and welcoming, and you‘ll find that people are always willing to help you if you need it. Spaniards also have a strong sense of community and many people like to spend time together in cafes and bars, enjoying the country‘s rich cuisine and having lively conversations. Secure your chance to experience true Spanish culture on our TEFL immersion program, where you will live with a host family and teach English in a local school.
Fun Fact: The world’s oldest restaurant, Botin, is located in Madrid, Spain.
Italy
Italy is located in Southern Europe and is home to some of the world‘s most iconic cities, including Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan. Teaching English in Italy is a great way to experience the country‘s famous culture while making a meaningful contribution to the lives of your students.
Teaching Requirements
To teach English in Italy, you must be a native English speaker and have a TEFL certification. You don‘t need to speak Italian as many of your students will already be proficient in the language, however it is recommended that you learn some basic Italian phrases so you can communicate with your students and locals. One word we recommend you to learn is “Enough” so that you can shout it to the waiter after you’ve stuffed your mouth with pasta! Italy offers a great escape for TEFL teachers in Europe.
Living Conditions
The cost of living in Italy is generally higher than in other European countries, however you can still find affordable accommodation in most cities. The country also has an excellent public transportation system, so you can easily get around. While the cost of living may be higher, the quality of life and everyday scenery will truly captivate you and make your heart skip a beat.
Culture
The Italian culture is known for its passion and hospitality. Italians are very friendly and welcoming, and you‘ll find that people are always willing to help you if you need it. Italians also have a strong sense of family, so you can expect to be invited to many family gatherings during your TEFL experience. Not to mention the tasty pasta, mouth-watering wine and mind-boggling Opera singers!
Fun Fact: Italy is home to the world‘s oldest university, the University of Bologna, which was founded in 1088.
Germany
Germany is located in Central Europe and is famous for its culture and history. Teaching English in Germany is a great way to experience the country‘s famous culture while making a meaningful contribution to the lives of your students. How would you like to spend your summer teaching English at a summer camp through games, sports, theatre and fun activities? Check out our Paid TEFL Internship in Germany.
Teaching Requirements
To teach English in Germany, you must be a native English speaker and have a TEFL certification. You don‘t need to speak German as many of your students will already be proficient in the language, however it is recommended that you learn some basic German phrases so you can communicate with your students.
Living Conditions
The cost of living in Germany is generally higher than in other European countries, however you can still find affordable accommodation in most cities. The country also has an excellent public transportation system, so you can easily get around.
Culture
The German culture is known for its efficiency and punctuality. Germans are very friendly and welcoming, and you‘ll find that people are always willing to help you if you need it. Germans also have a strong sense of community and many people like to spend time together in cafes and bars, enjoying traditional German cuisine.
Fun Fact: Germany is home to the world’s biggest beer festival, Oktoberfest, which is held annually in Munich.
Romania
Romania is located in Eastern Europe and is known for its beautiful mountains and vibrant cities. Teaching English in Romania is a great way to experience the country‘s unique culture while making a meaningful contribution to the lives of your students.
Teaching Requirements
To teach English in Romania, you must be a native English speaker and have a TEFL certification. You don‘t need to speak Romanian as many of your students will already be proficient in the language, however it is recommended that you learn some basic Romanian phrases so you can communicate with your students.
Living Conditions
The cost of living in Romania is generally lower than in other European countries and you can find affordable accommodation in most cities. Public transportation is also very affordable and the country has an excellent public transportation system, so you can easily get around.
Culture
The Romanian culture is known for its hospitality and warmth. Romanians are very friendly and welcoming, and you‘ll find that people are always willing to help you if you need it. Romanians also have a strong sense of family, so you can expect to be invited to many family gatherings during your TEFL experience.
Fun Fact: Romania is home to the world’s largest building, Palace of Parliament in Bucharest.
Poland
Poland is located in Central Europe and is known for its vibrant cities and beautiful countryside. Teaching English in Poland is a great way to experience the country‘s unique culture while making a meaningful contribution to the lives of your students. You could TEFL in Europe for 6-10 months with a Premier TEFL Internship!
Teaching Requirements
To teach English in Poland, you must be a native English speaker and have a TEFL certification. You don‘t need to speak Polish as many of your students will already be proficient in the language, however it is recommended that you learn some basic Polish phrases so you can communicate with your students.
Living Conditions
The cost of living in Poland is generally lower than in other European countries and you can find affordable accommodation in most cities. Public transportation is also very affordable and the country has an excellent public transportation system, so you can easily get around.
Culture
The Polish culture is known for its hospitality and warmth. Poles are very friendly and welcoming, and you‘ll find that people are always willing to help you if you need it. Poles also have a strong sense of community and many people like to spend time together in cafes and bars, enjoying traditional Polish cuisine.
Fun Fact: Poland is home to the world’s oldest zoo, the Warsaw Zoo, which was founded in 1876.
Teaching English as a foreign language in Europe is a great way to experience the culture and make a meaningful contribution to the lives of your students. This article has provided an overview of TEFL in Europe featuring five countries: Spain, Italy, Germany, Romania and Poland. We have discussed the teaching requirements, living conditions, and culture of each country as well as provided tips for teaching English to foreign students. We have also shared some fun facts about each country that will make your TEFL experience in Europe even more enjoyable. If you‘re interested in teaching English in Europe, check out Premier TEFL‘s Internship programs in Spain, Poland, Romania and Germany.
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