When venturing into the TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) field for the first time, there are multiple pathways to explore. One option involves engaging in workplace internships, providing an opportunity to test the teaching environment. This can include roles such as an ETA (English Teaching Assistant) or conducting small classes for children under supervision.
On the other hand, if you're feeling prepared to dive headfirst into the world of TEFL work, you may opt to start your career immediately, whether in-person or online. This involves leveraging your TEFL certification and immersing yourself in teaching experiences.
When considering the choice between TEFL jobs and internships, it's crucial to understand the key differences. Let's dissect these options to empower you in making an informed decision.
Support
Depending on your location and the type of internship you choose, you'll receive significant support. The agency responsible for your placement manages your payments and assists with visa matters, accommodation, and orientation in your new teaching destination.
This support is particularly valuable as you navigate the TEFL working landscape for the first time. Networking opportunities are also part of the support package, with reputable agencies fostering connections with prominent schools, education ministries, and other institutions.
When it comes to a TEFL job, the institution you work for should offer support, but ultimately, you're in control. Negotiating your salary and adapting to your new environment are your responsibilities. While employers can assist with visa applications, the rest is up to you.
This can be a significant challenge initially, but it's also an incredible experience that builds the confidence to explore the world.
Salary
No real contest here: A TEFL job is likely to offer higher earnings compared to an internship. Internships involve arrangements between an agency and an employer, often resulting in a commission to the agency, potentially leading to lower pay for you.
Some internships may even have fees, either upfront or deducted from your earnings. Agencies justify these fees by providing infrastructure and support or offering unique opportunities.
In contrast, TEFL jobs typically avoid such complications. If you find yourself in a pay-to-work situation, it's advisable to exit immediately. TEFL jobs usually have a straightforward payment structure, with the employer paying the employee directly, without involving an intermediary like an agency.
Training
If you're a new teacher, you likely recently completed your TEFL qualification, but your learning journey doesn't stop there.
Internship costs usually cover some training, including on-the-job sessions beneficial for newcomers. This may involve extra teacher and language training or attendance at seminars. We'll discuss networking and making friends shortly, but for now, understand that training is an excellent way to connect with others facing similar situations.
TEFL jobs continue to offer training and developmental opportunities, although the frequency may vary due to busy schedules. Training accessibility depends on your location and employer preferences; some prioritize experiential learning, while others emphasize continuous improvement. Negotiating training opportunities with employers is also possible when securing a TEFL job.
Location
Internships and TEFL jobs provide different opportunities for those looking to work abroad. Internships typically offer placements within a specific region, while TEFL jobs are often with specific schools in particular locations. If you have a specific city in mind, you can apply directly for positions there and turn your dreams into reality, provided you meet visa requirements and have a job offer.
TEFL internships are commonly offered by private agencies with agreements in popular destinations. When applying, you may be assigned a city or town to work in, rather than choosing one yourself. This is important to consider if you have a specific location in mind. Internships may involve working in a group of schools, requiring you to adapt to different locations. However, this can be beneficial for gaining diverse experience across a region.
Online TEFL jobs offer the flexibility to work from home or adopt a digital nomad lifestyle. This allows you to explore the world while working for a single online employer, a choice not available with internships. Whether you prefer the stability of a fixed location or the flexibility of remote work, both options cater to different preferences and career goals.
Making new friends
If you're a sociable and easy-going person, making friends comes naturally. However, forming connections becomes even easier during internships.
Internships typically involve groups of individuals with similar career interests but diverse backgrounds. Networking is essential, but it's also a lot of fun. Similar to college or university, being together with a new group can lead to lasting friendships and valuable networking opportunities in the future. You never know when someone might have a job tip for you.
Embarking on a TEFL journey can be intimidating, but having a group of like-minded individuals to share the adventure with provides undeniable comfort. While exciting, taking on a new challenge can be daunting, even for the most adventurous types. Having companions along for the ride can make the experience more enjoyable.
While you can also make friends when you land a TEFL job, being the only English speaker at a school or company can be a lonely experience. Going solo can bring out the best in some people, and as mentioned in the "support" section, these experiences can be transformative.
The pros and cons of both
So, we’ve discussed several factors that work in favor, or against, both internships and TEFL jobs. Let’s summarise, just to make it extra clear what you might be getting into!
- TEFL job pros and cons
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-Higher Earnings in TEFL Jobs: With a TEFL job, you have the advantage of earning your salary, which is likely to surpass the compensation offered in internships.
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-Independent Start in TEFL Jobs: Commencing a TEFL job comes with less support and supervision compared to internships. This independence, however, proves beneficial as it allows TEFL teachers to gain real, unfiltered experience, boosting their confidence in the classroom.
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-Flexibility of Location in TEFL Jobs: Meeting the visa requirements of a specific country opens doors to various locations for TEFL jobs. Unlike internships, you are not confined to one place. If an opportunity doesn't align with your preferences, you have the freedom to move on, putting you in control of your journey.
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-Daunting Yet Rewarding: While the prospect of starting a TEFL career can be daunting, having a support program can make a significant difference. There's no shame in seeking backing, especially when embarking on a new career path that can be intimidating even when it's the right choice.
- Internship pros and cons
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-An internship, ideally a good one, should equip you with the essential skills needed to become a teacher. Testing the waters before fully committing is a wise approach. Numerous excellent internship programs not only provide monetary compensation but also help you acclimate to the teaching role, explore diverse regions, and instill the confidence necessary for securing a TEFL job in the future.
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-Internships offer a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who may become lifelong friends or valuable contacts around the globe. You never know who might offer valuable job tips or recommendations about different parts of the world in the future.
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-On-site training during an internship is immensely valuable. With the support of an organization, you can make mistakes, learn from them, and acquire new skills without the full accountability of being a fully-fledged teacher.
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-However, it's important to note that internships may not provide the same income as a TEFL job. Additionally, not everyone can afford to dedicate up to a year to a low-wage position. Moreover, many internships involve fees at a time when you're looking to earn money rather than spend it.
Internships with Global TEFL
Argentina
Argentina is a twirling tango of chic city living and rugged natural beauty. For the urbanite, there is a chattering café culture, deference to food and fashion, and an all-consuming passion for football! For the nature lover, Argentina is Patagonia, with its pristine glaciers, and the Andes, where snow-swept mountains form the backbone of the country. This is the gateway to Antarctica, the birthplace of Maradona, and the home of the Gaucho, Argentina is calling!
Find out more about our Argentina internship
China
Have you always dreamt of exploring China beyond guidebooks and tourist attractions? Operating since 2005, with more than 3,700 alumni, Teach & Travel China is the country’s number one TEFL and teaching internship program. It continues to draw hundreds of aspiring teachers every year for the experience of a lifetime.
Find out more about our China internship
Colombia
Quickly becoming one of the most sought-after destinations for TEFL teachers, Colombia has every South American wonder imaginable. From beautiful coastlines skirted by the Caribbean Sea to hillsides full of some of the best coffee plantations in the world, teaching English in Colombia is a truly life-changing experience! As the largest economy in South America, Colombia is both modern and traditional, perfect for those who want to experience the authentic South American lifestyle in well-developed cities and towns. Are you ready for one of South America’s most spectacular destinations?
Find out more about our Colombia internship
Thailand
India is a developing economy in Asia with close relationships to Western countries. Many companies and factories in India work tightly with Western business partners. Therefore, the need for business English teachers is very high in India. Due to English being an official language in India, children begin to learn the language at an early age giving lots of opportunities to teach young learners as well. As you can see, you will have little trouble finding a suitable teaching position in India.
Find out more about our Thailand internship
Global TEFL Jobs Center
Whether you’re looking for an internship or a permanent job, The global TEFL Jobs Center is the place to be.
Constantly updated with new job and internship opportunities, our easy-to-use jobs center is a one-stop-shop for all the brightest and best new roles. When you complete a course through Global TEFL, you’ll have lifetime access to our jobs center, and we know it works - more than 80% of our graduates find teaching jobs abroad within eight weeks of finishing a course.
