If you’re dreaming of teaching English abroad but aren’t sure where to begin, you’re not alone. With so many options – courses, jobs, locations – it can feel overwhelming trying to figure out the right first step. That’s where a TEFL internship comes in. They’re designed specifically for beginners, offering a structured and supported way to dive into the world of teaching while exploring a new country.
At Premier TEFL, we’ve seen thousands of aspiring teachers take their first steps into the TEFL world through internships, and time and time again, we hear the same thing: “I’m so glad I did this first.” Here’s why a TEFL internship is the best way to kickstart your teaching career abroad.
Gain Real Teaching Experience – With Support
Let’s face it: your first time in the classroom can be nerve-wracking. A TEFL internship offers a structured, supportive environment where you can put your new skills into practice with guidance. You’ll often have mentors, training sessions, and peer support to help build your confidence as a teacher.
Rather than being thrown into a full-time job with little preparation, internships are designed to ease you in gradually, making your transition smoother and less stressful.
Travel Without the Stress
When moving abroad, there are so many unknowns – visas, accommodation, job security, cultural differences. A TEFL internship takes away a lot of that uncertainty.
They usually come with a package that includes:
– Pre-arranged accommodation
– Assistance with visas and paperwork
– Orientation on arrival
– A teaching placement at a reputable school
– Ongoing support throughout your stay
This structure means you can focus on soaking up the experience, not stressing about logistics.
Live Abroad Like a Local
Tourist experiences are great, but internships offer something deeper. Living and working in a community, rather than passing through, gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the culture, learn the language, and make real connections.
Whether you’re placed in a bustling Thai city or a quiet Spanish village, you’ll see a side of life most travellers never do.
Stand Out to Future Employers
A TEFL internship on your CV shows more than just experience – it shows commitment, adaptability, and initiative. Employers love to see that you’ve already taught in a classroom and lived in a different culture. It demonstrates that you’ve gone beyond theory and gained hands-on knowledge.
This can give you a huge edge when applying for paid teaching roles later on, whether abroad or online.
Figure Out Your Teaching Style
Not everyone wants to teach children. Not everyone enjoys grammar-heavy lessons. An internship is your chance to explore different classroom styles, age groups, and teaching approaches – while still in a learning environment.
This helps you discover what kind of TEFL work suits you best and shapes your future career path with clarity.
Make Lifelong Friends (and Memories)
TEFL internships are often done in groups, so you’ll meet other like-minded travellers from around the world. Many people form close friendships, travel together on weekends, and support each other throughout the experience.
The memories you make during your TEFL internship – your first class, your first temple visit, your first karaoke night – are the ones you’ll treasure forever.
Get Paid or Receive Perks
While internships aren’t always high-paying, many include perks like free accommodation, meals, stipends, or bonuses. Some placements offer a generous allowance that allows you to live comfortably and even save while teaching.
And once you’ve completed your TEFL internship, some schools are eager to hire their interns for longer contracts – with better pay and benefits. You can also make lifelong connections with schools and other TEFL teachers that will aid you in your future TEFL career.
If you’re new to TEFL and want to hit the ground running, an internship is one of the smartest ways to start. It bridges the gap between training and teaching, offers a safety net, and opens doors you didn’t even know existed.
At the Premier TEFL, we offer internship programmes in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, Spain, Germany, and more. Whether you’re drawn to beach life, bustling cities, or cultural immersion, there’s a destination that’s perfect for you.
So if you’re sitting on the fence, wondering when and how to start – consider this your sign. Take the leap with an internship, and let the adventure begin.
Want to learn more about our TEFL internships? Get in touch and we’ll help you find the perfect match for your goals and experience level.
Read a review from one of our previous Vietnam interns!
