English as an international language has spread its wings far and wide and the world is witnessing its tremendous growth in political, cultural, economic and scientific arenas. English is no longer restricted within the walls of the English speaking nations but its influence has spilled over to the non-English speaking parts of the world. Although the job scenario has been bleak in Europe, still it has become a promising destination for those aspiring ESL/EFL teachers with plenty of TEFL employment opportunities. With the demand of ESL teachers soaring across the globe have opened doors of opportunities in the field of TEFL. Europe tops the list of native speakers of English eyeing English teaching jobs abroad as Europe offers rich history, fascinating local culture, delectable cuisine and breathtaking destinations.
Europe has a lot to offer to those with a passion for teaching and a love for travelling. Fresh graduates or students on a gap year can look forward to a great experience soaking up a new culture while they indulge in TEFL. Teaching English abroad gives the opportunity of a working holiday for career changers in their 30s, 40s and even 50s who are planning to travel abroad and looking for work at the same time. The ESL teachers will get to teach both children as well as adult learners in a variety of settings like commercial language schools, schools and institutions of further education and those from a corporate background can get jobs as business English teachers working with different types of companies across the continent. They can also opt for freelance or part time teaching work.
TESOL jobs are aplenty in Europe but EU countries prefer TEFL certified ESL/EFL teachers with a Bachelor's degree. Those who are willing to tap the teaching jobs scattered around Europe can easily pursue in class TEFL programs as well as online and distance TEFL courses from the comforts of their homes. But along with an international certification and fluency in English one also needs dedication and enthusiasm to manage learners of a foreign language. TEFL course gives a broad overview to the aspiring and professional teachers of the principal approaches to teaching and learning English. It provides necessary tools to apply different teaching methods to meet individual student's needs.
TEFL aspirants looking for jobs in Europe must make a concrete plan before they embark on their European sojourn. Although there is an increasing demand for English teachers, there are certain rules and regulations imposed by European Union member countries which non-EU nationals have to follow. Apart from TEFL certification, the ESL/EFL teachers planning to work legally in European nations have to apply for work and residence permits. Unlike Western Europe, employment opportunities for ESL/EFL teachers are easier in Eastern Europe where the cost of living is much lower than the other parts of the continent.