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✎ EN Teaching English in Spain

Discussion in 'Spain' started by CarmenR, Mar 31, 2011.

  1. CarmenR

    CarmenR New Member

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    My daughter will graduate from a University in the USA in May, with a degree in Social Work. She would like to spend a year teaching English in Spain (Madrid, preferrably near Tres Cantos).

    We are seeking advice about how to prepare herself to be marketable in such a teaching position in Madrid and how make contacts to find a job.
     
  2. texkourgan

    texkourgan Addicted member
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    You & your daughter should look at the EasyExpat guide to Madrid that offers advice on moving to Spain & thriving: http://www.easyexpat.com/en/madrid.htm

    Some general advice about teaching English:
    "As in many countries expats reside in, teaching English is a common position. Most language schools now demand all applicants have TEFL course certificates, a college degree, and adequate visa clearance and registration.

    Working for a Language School
    The easiest way to get started teaching English is to find a school. The best situations are companies that pay for health insurance and aid in getting visa paperwork completed.

    Applicants usually submit their resume and application, and if the school approves, the applicant will be asked for an interview. The interview can consist of a sample lesson (about 20 minutes) or a grammar test. Some schools will throw teachers right in for a 90 minute class where the school observes and either offers the job, or does not.

    It is common for new teachers to only receive a few classes at first, usually morning classes. Many teachers work at two schools.

    Private Lessons
    Offering private lessons is usually more profitable per hour, but means a lot of hard work to find your own customers. The best way to get private students is to post advertisements in business newspapers, on bulletin boards, or post in the classified section. It is also helpful to have Spanish language skills so you are able to work with beginner students. And while private students offer immediate money in your pocket, it can be hard to establish a reliable clientele.

    Private lessons in technical and business English at private companies is the most lucrative strain of teaching. These jobs are hard to come by, and without experience, it is unlikely you will be able to gain a contract. It is also necessary to have all your paperwork in order for these positions. "

    Here is a very helpful article: http://www.transitionsabroad.com/listin ... pain.shtml

    Best of luck
     
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  3. CarmenR

    CarmenR New Member

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    Thank you. This is all VERY helpful information, as is the web link you included.

    She and I have looked at a school here in the US that says they can prepare her and get her TESL certification through an on-line program. It's very expensive. It seems you are commending that she instead get her certification in Spain. Do you know how we would even start to look for such a program in Madrid?

    Are you also saying that the job search needs to happen in person in Spain? Is there a way to begin searching here through the internet, to at least have a list of schools to contact when we go and visit in May/June?
     
  4. texkourgan

    texkourgan Addicted member
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    Glad I could help!

    TESL courses do tend to be pricy. It is an investment as with these accreditation you may be able to get better jobs at a higher salary. Some schools are not picky however and may not even require it. Really depends on what schools she is looking at & what she is looking to do long term.

    Many people do apply upon arriving, but your can check with schools in Madrid & find out their procedure. Here is a list: http://www.intercambio-es.com/madrid_schools.php. Is she planning on relocating long-term, or just looking for a program to go over for a few months? Some programs include time abroad receiving a TEFL certificate. Here is more info about that & personal stories @ transistions abroad: http://www.transitionsabroad.com/listin ... pain.shtml

    Best of luck!
     
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