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Teaching English in Native English Speaking Countries

© Jonathan Griffiths

Most TEFL qualified teachers travel overseas to teach English in non-native speaking countries. However, there are plenty of opportunities for qualified teachers to teach non-native speakers in native English speaking countries. This week, I will explore such opportunities.

Many TEFL jobs in native speaking countries demand higher qualifications than those in non-native countries. A bachelor's degree and CELTA certificate (or equivalent) are usually a minimum requirement. Many positions may also demand at least 2 years experience, a DELTA (or equivalent), and even a Master's in TESOL. However, pay is abviously much higher than for most jobs in non-native countries. Also, you can enjoy the benefits of working with those from a different culture whilst living in a culture similar to your own.

A good place to begin getting a sense for what kinds of jobs are out there is at Dave's Esl Cafe International Job Board. The popularity of this board is attested to by the huge number of job postings it receives. Be quick though, each job receives hundreds of hits daily! Whilst most of the jobs listed are in non-native speaking countries, there are several in English speaking countries. Just click on the job to find out more information.

Dave's Esl Cafe Job Information is another useful starting place. Here you can find out about the EFL environment in various countries. There are postings about culture, employers, finding an apartment, and so on. Be aware, however, that the information at this link is unedited and may or may not be accurate.

TEFL.com has a huge database system that uploads jobs in real-time. You have to sign up with them (which is free) in order to apply for jobs. However, once you have your online resume at TEFL.com, it can be sent to any e.mail address in the world! TEFL.com also has a huge database of TEFL jobs across the world, a teacher training center, and a career center.

Most of the TEFL jobs in the USA are in big cities (where the majority of immigrants live). A good place to get a feel for the TEFL field in the USA is at TESOL. Dave's ESL Cafe has a section that includes links to help you find jobs in the USA. It might also be worth clicking on the job links section on ESL in the USA's site.

If you are interested in working in Canada, check out International Language Schools of Canada's site which lists all employment opportunities at ILSC schools across Canada. Another possibility is TESL Canada's Opportunities Page.

The copyright of the article Teaching English in Native English Speaking Countries in Working Abroad is owned by Jonathan Griffiths. Permission to republish Teaching English in Native English Speaking Countries in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.