TEFL EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS IN IRELAND

The CELT plus minimum level 7 qualification entitles you to teach in a recognised English language school in Ireland. Abroad the stipulations vary from country to country and from school to school, e.g. in Greece a university degree is stipulated, but in other countries a good TEFL cert alone suffices, with the right personality and work ethic. There are many people on the job market with qualifications ranging from introductory 20 hour certificates to masters degrees.

If you would be prepared to teach and accommodate a student in your own home there are many opportunities for this kind of work. The CELT is not required for this teaching, nor is a degree.

Many schools abroad state the CELTA (Cambridge TEFL) or equivalent as their certification requirement. The CELT is certainly equivalent, being recognised by the British Council and other national bodies. However, remember that schools are looking for teachers with good personality, clear voice, reliability and simply good teaching skills!

The extent of the demand In late September and to a lesser extent in early January there is usually a strong demand from overseas for the winter terms (in the southern hemisphere the terms may be different).

 In Ireland the demand is highest in July and early August, when there is often a shortage of supply.

In winter, however, it is not easy to secure full-time tefl work, and during the economic downturn this may be more noticeable, but the silver lining is that now more than ever people realise how important it is to learn English. Cuts in the number of resource teachers of EFL/ESOL in state schools do not help, but the demand for home or school-based grinds may consequently rise.  

Go to www.tefl.com, www.tefl.net and see the current situation.

Regarding jobs in Ireland the advice is always the same: send a well-presented CV and follow up politely and often. Be prepared to work part-time and awkward hours if and when called. Ignore statements about school groups employing trainees from their own TEFL courses – schools want the best teachers they can get.

Advice

Check out prospective employers abroad – some schools pay badly and/or late.

When you do take up a job, if the school generally keeps its part of the contract please honour yours also.

Take an interest in the people of the country. Study their culture and what you can of their language before going there. It will certainly help!

Information taken from Language College Ireland