Teach English abroad and saving money as a students

Being a student can be immensely rewarding, learning new things every day as well as opening up future possibilities as knowledge grows. However, one major challenge for many students these days, besides keeping up to date with the latest technology shifts, is how to study and pay for life’s necessities at the same time.

Therefore, considering the benefits of getting a job that provides a sense of financial security, while still having the time and energy to learn new topics, is a wonderful way to achieve that balance. For instance, the job of a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) teacher is one that really can give all of the advantages of a fast-paced and creative workspace, with the flexibility to still study at the same time.

So, read on below to find out more about how to become a TEFL teacher, as well as some useful tips on getting started in this exciting and varied vocation. Also, some common questions shall be addressed, alongside some responses that might just make making the right decision on where and how to teach TEFL that bit easier.

What is TEFL?

In its simplest form, TEFL is the teaching of English as a second or foreign language. For many global citizens, English is necessary for work, study or recreational purposes.

Hence, having the chance to study with a professional and energetic TEFL teacher is one that most English language learners are keen to snap up. Indeed, a typical TEFL lesson could focus on a core component of grammar, such as the past perfect tense.

By contrast, other sessions may focus on improving conversational fluency and coherence, or even writing job application letters to prospective employers in English. All of these skills and many more are currently in demand across the planet, placing a high value on a TEFL teacher who is willing to work hard to help others.

What does a TEFL teacher need to get started?

In most cases, countries who have TEFL learners do actually require a genuine TEFL certification as part of their visa application process. Therefore, it is prudent to consider several of the benefits of taking such a course before setting out on this career path.

For one thing, these courses are often much more affordable than one might suppose. For example, there are an array of special deals from The TEFL Org right now, that highlight the relatively low economic impact of getting a high-quality training course today.

Another upside of taking these courses is the sheer wealth of knowledge that the course instructors possess. These teachers have been working with TEFL for decades, and know the subject like the back of their hand. This information can be passed on and shared easily with new TEFL teachers, who will obviously want to make the most of such a wonderful opportunity to pick the brains of established TEFL pros.

Beyond that, the programs are the ideal way to make connections with other new TEFL teachers, collaborating on class projects together, as well as working on ensuring that all get through the more challenging aspects of the subject. Not only that, but many TEFL teachers actually stay in contact long after the course is finished, meaning there is the chance to make friends who are in the same boat for the months and years to come.

What is the next step after getting a TEFL certification?

For each teacher, the process of matching skills will be different for each new TEFL teacher. For example, some may prefer to work with kindergarten students, and indeed thrive in the energy and interactive setting of such a learning arena.

On the other hand, others could fancy their chances of working in a primary school environment, where the learners are a bit older and more independent, and are usually able to pay attention to presentation material for slightly longer than their younger peers. This age is also typically a good hybrid of games and activities that blend learning targets in a less explicit way, while still guiding students towards the expectations that they will have at older learning levels.

For those who are more at ease with older students, secondary school might just fulfil those needs. At this age level, lessons can be more directly shown and explained, and more mature discussion topics brought to the table in many cases. For instance, a group of 13 year olds may find it easier to talk about subjects as diverse as money, social media, or even the best age to retire than those at a lower age bracket.

Last but not least, there are TEFL teachers who could favour the classes that are designed for adult learners, such as Business English courses within a company. These programs often require little to no classroom management, and there is no parent’s evening to deal with either.

On the flip side, adult learners sometimes find it a bit more challenging to learn some of the finer nuances of the English language, so a patient approach is still required to ensure steady and sustainable learning growth. This is especially true with older learners, who are often busy with their lives outside of studying, having to handle the responsibilities that come with their families and friends beyond work.

Why can becoming a TEFL teacher help to actually save money?

To begin with, most countries actually pay their TEFL teachers to work with their students, so the financial gain from doing this kind of work is immediately evident. This is why it is vital to do effective research before starting, as some nations such as India frequently only have volunteer positions available for new TEFL teachers.

Furthermore, the time spent lesson planning, teaching, assessing and reviewing student work is time not spent splashing the cash elsewhere, and this can also lead to having more money in the bank for day trips or weekend getaways. In this way, becoming a TEFL teacher could provide the motivation necessary to save enough money to really enjoy the travel experiences that life has to offer.

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