Teaching English in Nepal
Finding Work
Looking for work can be difficult in Nepal. However, if you have a TEFL certificate, it makes things a lot easier. There are many private schools and a demand for English tutoring. However, do not expect to be paid much, often work in Nepal is voluntary. If you are looking to find paid work teaching in Nepal, try to sort a job out before you head out there, otherwise you may find that you will only be offered voluntary work if searching upon arrival.
The Teaching
Teaching is a much respected job in Nepal. The people believe that knowledge is something that cannot be bought. Since knowledge cannot be traded for money, being a teacher is seen to be a work of respect and independence. Teaching as a profession is therefore quite low paid work.
There is a high demand for English teachers in the country. English has recently become a second language in Nepal and its younger generation are hoped to succeed in international competition in the future. A lot of teaching tends to be conversational English as local teachers are trained to teach other subjects such as grammar and theory. Class sizes are from 22-50 students aged between 6-14 years.
Occasionally there are unique opportunities to teach in a monastery for Buddhist monks. They can be in groups from between 9-17 years.
You will find that teaching English can have a broader demand, not only in schools. Business English is also sought after. Businesses are always looking for fluent English speakers with accents. These jobs are well paid. If you are TEFL trained then that is the only qualification you will need.
Living
Being a popular location for mountaineers and tourist, Nepal caters well for foreigners. Places of tourist interest have good connections for transport. It is advised to go by air. There is a network of roads throughout the country but the roads are poorly managed and can be dangerous.
In Kathmandu there are plenty of internet cafes around while in smaller, isolated towns and villages you may not be so lucky!
If you are living in Kathmandu and you enjoy your nightlife, some of the main attractions in the city are its famous casinos. They remain open all day and night. The staff all speak English fluently, among other languages. There you can find plenty of drinks and snacks.
Cost Guide
Renting an apartment – 25,000 NPR – 40,000 NPR
Meal in a restaurant – 1000 NPR
Beer in a bar – 200 NPR
Shampoo – 300 NPR
Litre of Milk – 40 NPR
Bag of rice – 100 NPR
Cigarettes – 200 NPR
