If you’re a regular reader of my blog, you may remember that last year, I volunteered teaching ESL for 2 weeks in Guatemala. I also wanted to make a career switch to ESL teaching. However, it didn’t happen.
A few people reached-out to me with questions on how to find an ESL teaching job as a non-native English speaker. My first language is French. I was born and raised in France before coming to Canada in 2006.
ESL Teacher vs. Certified Teacher
There is often confusion between the 2.
A certified teacher is typically qualified to teach a specific subject or grade level within the formal education system. They may teach subjects other than English, depending on their specialization.
Certified teachers have obtained a teaching license or certification from an accredited institution or governmental body. This license usually requires completing a specific education program, including coursework, supervised teaching experience, and passing exams.
Certified teachers primarily work in formal educational institutions such as public or private schools. They are responsible for delivering curriculum-based instruction, assessing student learning, and supporting overall educational development.
An ESL teacher specializes in teaching English specifically to non-native speakers. Their primary goal is to help students improve their English language skills, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
ESL teachers often hold certifications such as TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). These certifications focus on teaching English as a second language and typically involve training in language acquisition theories, teaching methodologies, and practical teaching experience.
ESL teachers may work in various settings, including language schools, community centers, or as private tutors. They often teach students of different ages and proficiency levels, from beginners to advanced learners.
This is what this post will discuss: ESL teaching.
What’s the Obsession with Native-Speakerism About?
It seems like everywhere you look, a “native English speaker” is a requirement to find a ESL teaching job. This requirement isn’t necessarily to guarantee a higher quality of teaching -it actually doesn’t- , but it’s primarily for visa purposes.
A lot of countries will only issue a work-visa to teach English to passport holders of the following countries: USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
If, like me, you have a passport from one of the above countries, and are ESL yourself, you won’t have any difficulties getting interviews and finding a job. I was fretting a lot about finding an ESL teaching job as a non-native speaker, but it was a non-issue.
If you’re not in that category, keep reading.
Be Flexible in Terms of Location
Consider various locations and types of ESL teaching positions, such as teaching children or kindergarteners, or specific proficiency levels. Being flexible can increase your chances of finding a suitable job.
If you have a European passport, the European Union is your oyster. That’s 27 countries to choose from. Let’s make that 26 if we remove Ireland.
Most of Central and South American countries don’t require a specific citizenship to teach ESL. Same in Mexico, Cambodia, India, Thailand and China. Although China normally requires a passport from one of the seven countries listed above, you can circumvent this. The demand for ESL teaching is extremely high and there aren’t enough candidates.
Consider Online Teaching
Explore online platforms that offer opportunities for ESL teachers. Many online teaching platforms value diversity and may provide a more accessible entry point for non-native speakers.
Obtain a TEFL, TESOL or CELTA certification
Consider obtaining internationally recognized English teaching certifications such as TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults).
These certifications can validate your language proficiency and teaching abilities, and greatly increase your chances of finding a job. Most of them offer a practicum, which can give you some real classroom experience.
Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter
As a non-native speaker, you’ll probably have to put in a bit more work in your resume and cover letter.
Customize your resume/CV and cover letter to emphasize your strengths and suitability for ESL teaching roles. Focus on how your unique background and experiences can benefit students.
Education: Emphasize any relevant degrees or diplomas in education or linguistics.
Teaching Experience: Showcase any teaching experience you have, whether formal or informal. Highlight your achievements and the positive outcomes of your teaching.
Seek Further Qualifications
Most job postings require a Bachelor’s degree. As a non-native speaker, you may need a Master’s or a PhD if your Bachelor’s isn’t in ESL or Education. It may increase your chances. I have an MBA and I felt it opened more doors.
Prepare for Interviews
During interviews, emphasize your teaching philosophy, classroom management skills, and cultural sensitivity. These are common interview questions.
Be prepared to address any concerns about your non-native speaker status by demonstrating your language proficiency and teaching abilities. There are some strengths to being a non-native English speaker teaching English. You understand firsthand the challenges learners face because you’ve been through them yourself.
Master the Language
Continuously improve your own English language skills. This not only boosts your confidence but also enhances your credibility as a teacher. Engage in regular practice, read extensively, and stay updated with language trends and nuances.
Stay Persistent and Positive
Finding the right ESL teaching job may take time and effort. Stay persistent in your job search and maintain a positive attitude.
Finding an ESL teaching job as a non-native speaker requires confidence in your abilities, and a proactive approach to showcasing your qualifications and strengths.
By leveraging your unique cultural perspective and teaching expertise, you can successfully embark on a fulfilling career in ESL education.
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