TEFL Travel Guide: Spain

Spain has become one of the top destinations for teaching English as a Foreign Language. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a growing demand for English-speaking professionals, Spain offers a fantastic opportunity for both new and experienced teachers. This blog will explore the requirements, expected salary, where to find work, and what life is like for EFL teachers living in Spain.

Requirements 

Before you can start teaching English in Spain, there are a few requirements that you must meet. While the specific requirements can vary depending on the type of job and the institution, there are some general expectations:

• TEFL Certification. One of the most important qualifications is a TEFL certification, preferably of 120-Hours or above. While there may be some employers who will hire without a formal certification, it is highly recommended and, in many cases, necessary to land a good job at a reputable company. 

• Bachelor's Degree. Many employers in Spain require you to have a bachelor’s degree in any field. A university degree in English or education may be an additional bonus. 

• Native or Near-Native English Fluency. To teach English in Spain, it’s expected that you have native or near-native fluency in the language. This is important because you will be expected to model proper pronunciation, grammar, and conversation skills for your students. Being a native speaker is not always an official requirement, but it’s certainly an advantage.

• Work Visa. If you are from outside the EU, you will need a work visa to teach in Spain. Many employers help with the visa application process, but it is important to have the necessary documentation before you arrive in the country. For EU citizens, no work visa is required.

• Criminal Background Check. Most schools and language centres in Spain will ask for a clean criminal background check as part of the hiring process. This is to ensure the safety and well-being of the students.

Expected Salary 

Salaries for EFL teachers in Spain can vary depending on the location, type of school, and experience level. 

Teachers working at private language schools or academies can expect to earn between €1,100 and €1,500 per month, depending on experience, location, and hours worked. Salaries in Madrid and Barcelona tend to be on the higher end of the scale, while smaller cities may offer lower wages. 

Teaching English in public schools through a programme like the **Auxiliares de Conversación** offers a monthly stipend of approximately €700 to €1,000. While the pay isn’t as high, the job often provides benefits like a longer holiday period, which can be attractive to those looking for time off during the summer or winter months. 

Many EFL teachers supplement their income by offering private English lessons. The rate for private tutoring can range from €15 to €30 per hour, depending on your qualifications, location, and demand. Private tutoring is a great way to increase your earnings while giving you more flexibility in your schedule.

Finding Work

Finding a job teaching English in Spain can be done through a variety of channels. 

• Language Schools and Academies. The majority of EFL teaching jobs in Spain are offered through private language schools or academies. Popular schools like International House, The Language House, and British Council frequently hire teachers. You can visit their websites to find job openings or send an unsolicited application with your CV.

• Online Job Boards. Several online job boards specialize in EFL teaching opportunities. Websites like eslbase, GaijinPot, and BCN Languages regularly post listings for teaching jobs across Spain. Some websites even allow you to filter by region, type of school, and salary.

• The Auxiliares de Conversación Programme. The Spanish government runs a programme called Auxiliares de Conversación, which hires native English speakers to assist Spanish teachers in public schools. While the pay is modest, this program is a great way to gain experience while working within the public school system. You can apply through the Spanish Ministry of Education’s website.

Life in Spain

Living in Spain as an EFL teacher is an enriching experience, both personally and professionally. Spain is known for its welcoming culture, great food, and vibrant social life. 

The cost of living in Spain is generally lower than in other European countries, but it varies depending on the city. Madrid and Barcelona are the most expensive cities, while smaller towns like Valencia or Seville offer a more affordable lifestyle. On average, rent in a city like Madrid can cost between €500 and €700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, though prices can be lower in other regions.

One of the best aspects of teaching in Spain is the work-life balance. Spanish culture places a high value on enjoying life, so teachers can expect long weekends, ample holidays, and time to explore the country. The workday often includes a long lunch break, which is a unique feature of Spanish life. While teaching hours may be irregular, especially if you're working at private language schools, there is plenty of time to travel, relax, and enjoy the sunny weather.

Spain is famous for its rich culture, festivals, and lively social scene. Whether you’re enjoying tapas with friends, participating in a local fiesta, or relaxing on the Mediterranean beaches, there’s always something to do. Major cities like Madrid and Barcelona are full of expats, which makes it easy to connect with other teachers from around the world.

With its geographic location, Spain offers easy access to other European countries, and its efficient public transportation system makes traveling around the country simple and affordable. For avid travelers, it serves as the perfect base to explore Europe and experience the continent’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and cuisines.

The healthcare system in Spain is highly regarded. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive free or low-cost medical treatment, while non-EU citizens may need to arrange private health insurance. Many employers offer health benefits, so it’s a good idea to check with your school to see what’s included.

Spain enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. If you’re a fan of sunshine, Spain is the place to be, especially in regions like Andalusia, where summer temperatures can soar. The lifestyle is laid-back, and locals often take time to relax and enjoy the moment. The combination of good weather, a relaxed lifestyle, and delicious food makes Spain an ideal place to live for many teachers.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language in Spain offers an exciting and rewarding opportunity to experience the culture, explore new regions, and meet people from all over the world. Teaching English in Spain can be a life-changing experience - whether you’re seeking to enhance your teaching career or just want to immerse yourself in Spanish culture, teaching in Spain is an opportunity worth exploring!