For many, there is a belief that a university degree is the only way to get ahead on the career ladder. While it is undoubtedly true that academic qualifications are taken into consideration by an employer, there are other factors that go into the final hiring decision.
Among these is a willingness to think outside the box, and come up with creative solutions to existing problems. In fact, there is no better way to showcase this talent than by considering working overseas.
Taking a position abroad directly demonstrates the capacity to live and grow in another culture, taking their values and beliefs into consideration when making the move. Indeed, one wonderful position to think about when considering a move to foreign shores is that of a TEFL (or Teaching English as a Foreign Language) teacher.
Helping others to learn the challenges of English is a rewarding and fulfilling vocation, full of surprises and healthy workplace challenges. Below is a guide to just some of the places where TEFL can be taught without a formal university education, alongside some essential tips for getting started in this job.
Japan
The Land of the Rising Sun is one of the most attractive options for teaching TEFL right now. Here, a university degree is not mandatory, although the online resource catalogue for working abroad does encourage a prospective TEFL tutor to go ahead and get an authentic TEFL certification under their belts first.
For one thing, a reliable TEFL course will equip the new TEFL educator with all the information they need to handle the opening weeks and months of their new career path. On top of that, they will also get to meet and study with others in the same position, making the transition that touch more seamless.
Beyond that, the TEFL programs are led by trustworthy and experienced guides, who have a wealth of TEFL teaching experience to draw upon. Last but by no means least, having a TEFL certification means that Japanese recruiters are much more likely to place that application at the top of their list.
For those who love big city life, Tokyo is the place to be. With the very latest cutting edge technology in action, there truly is nothing like the frenetic and fast pace of Tokyo to savour.
On the other hand, for the TEFL educator who prefers a more sedate pace of living, a smaller town or city such as Nagasaki could be just the ticket. Despite the fact that places such as these do not have quite the hustle and bustle of the capital city, there is still lots to do, and it is relatively easy to take a step back and retreat into nature.
Greece
Located at the junction of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Greece is a literal hotbed of cultures all in one place. From historical icons to modern day festivals, the Greek lifestyle has something for every taste.
In the capital city of Athens, there is a burgeoning TEFL scene, not just limited to the traditional classroom. To be more precise, there is a vast range of TEFL opportunities in a field as diverse as being a tour guide.
A TEFL tour guide can draw on their knowledge of the English language to bring the story of the Parthenon to life, or ease foreign tourists through the folklore of the Greek gods as they meander through the city’s streets. What is more, though these tours are often offered for free upfront, a lot of visitors will often pay a healthy tip at the end for a tour well done.
Another bonus of becoming a TEFL tour guide is that partnerships can be struck with local restaurants and cafes along the way. These food and drink establishments will often be more than glad to reach an agreement with a guide, offering them a percentage or a commission for making their place a stop along the way.
Saudi Arabia
Situated in the heart of the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has some options for those with a TEFL qualification as opposed to a formal university degree. These include working at some private academies, universities, or other learning institutions, from the capital of Riyadh all the way to coastal cities such as Jeddah.
From modern malls, even to the odd theme park, Saudi Arabians have slowly moved towards many of the amenities of 21st century life. For example, it is now possible to watch some of the world’s elite sporting events across the nation, from golf to tennis. These massive events bring a host of sporting stars to the country, and help to provide a healthy distraction from the hard work of being a TEFL teacher.
Additionally, another perk of working in Saudi Arabia is the relatively high pay that can be on offer to the right candidate. Many employers offer accommodation and bills included as part of the employment package, meaning that more of the earnings end up in the TEFL tutor’s back pocket come pay day.
Brazil
As the largest nation on the entire continent of South America, Brazil has long been a magnet for foreign visitors keen to know more about the country. There is truly something for every taste here, from a booming film industry to a thriving party atmosphere, especially during the carnival season.
For a TEFL teacher, there are opportunities galore too. There are of course many schools and other educational facilities that really need a willing and enthusiastic TEFL tutor to help them.
As well as that, there is a growing business English demand, especially in larger cities such as Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. These frequently take place inside the offices of multinational companies seeking to ensure their staff develop their English for professional purposes.
Furthermore, a whole host of smaller startups are also seeing the positive impact of training up their employees in English. So, TEFL teachers are now in demand more than ever across the whole of Brazil, even without a university qualification beforehand, though a TEFL certification is obviously preferred.
References:
- https://www.tefl.org/teach-english-abroad/teach-english-in-japan/jet/
- https://rethemnos.gr/lady-of-the-angels-old-town-rethymno/
- https://rethemnos.gr/event/10o-english-on-the-spot-festival-sto-rethymno/
- https://www.theguardian.com/film/2022/nov/03/no-fun-rides-but-plenty-of-spirit-studio-ghibli-offers-anime-fans-a-new-walk-in-the-park
- https://www.cnbc.com/2022/11/03/godzilla-day-toho-to-release-new-japanese-film-next-year.html
