A TEFL gap year
Posted by Kiva Richard - 09:17 on 12 June 2012
Do not despair if you have been unsuccessful in securing a place at university this time round. If you are planning on reapplying, a year can seem like a long wait. It is important you use this time wisely and a year out teaching English abroad, could be just what you need to give you new skills, new experiences and a new perspective on life itself.
What is TEFL?
TEFL refers to teaching English as a foreign language and usually this involves you travelling abroad to teach students to whom English is not their native language. As a native English speaker, skills you don’t know you already have are in great demand all over the world. TEFL teaching is an incredibly popular career path, particularly among young people setting off on their gap year. If you like the idea of getting paid to see the world, TEFL is for you. Many of us are captivated with the idea of travelling the globe but lack some of the financial resources to do so. TEFL is your ticket to the exotic and unknown and there is no better way to experience a country than through the eyes of a TEFL teacher.
Where can I go?
There are some countries such as South Korea and Japan where it is virtually impossible to secure a TEFL job without a degree. However, there are many places around the world where you can find work without one, including most of Europe and even places such as Ecuador and Peru. If you are looking for short term contracts, TEFL summer camps are a popular option and run throughout Europe. Places you thought you might never get the chance to visit are now opening up their doors to you. Although a classroom assistant job does not pay particular well, in many poorer countries you will be able to live well by local standards on a TEFL salary. On top of this, accommodation is often arranged or paid for by your school which will save you more money. TEFL Scotland graduates will be able to search and apply for TEFL Jobs through our TEFL Jobs Centre. This is constantly being updated with exciting new positions so make sure you sign up to our TEFL Jobs Newsletter so that you never miss out on any new vacancies.
How do I get qualified?
In order to teach English abroad you will need to get an official TEFL Scotland certificate. There are myths that you can gain a TEFL job without any TEFL qualifications however you will need to ask yourself if you’d want to. One of TEFL Scotland’s recommended TEFL courses will train you in the skills you need to teach English as a foreign language and provide you with confidence that will be invaluable if you have never taught before. Our official TEFL Scotland certificates are recognised all over the world and will allow you to secure a reputable and well paid TEFL Job. You can get certified within a few weeks with one of our classroom TEFL courses or online TEFL courses. If you live in Scotland you may also be eligible for ILA Scotland funding which will cover £200 off the price of your course. More information: ILA Scotland funding
Taking a year out to travel abroad and teaching English as a foreign language will change your life. Start your journey now with TEFL Scotland.
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