Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is one of the most popular countries for EFL teaching in the Eastern European region. Demand for English language tuition is constantly high throughout the country, particularly in the capital city, Prague, while salaries are also generally good in relation to the cost of living. If you possess an internationally recognised TEFL qualification, you should have little trouble finding a teaching position that will allow you to live a comfortable lifestyle in the Czech Republic.

How to Find a TEFL Job in the Czech Republic

It is certainly possible to secure a teaching position in the Czech Republic from outside of the country as many employers do advertise their vacant positions online. However, if you want a wider choice of positions or want to work in a certain area, then it is a good idea to search for jobs from within the country. The most effective approach is to simply contact as many schools as you can find in your chosen area by visiting them in person. It is important that you are professional in attitude and appearance at all times and that you possess an up-to-date CV/resume which you can leave with potential employers. It is worth noting that a TEFL certificate will be a minimum requirement for most teaching jobs in the Czech Republic.

Questions to Ask Employers

If you are offered a teaching position that you are interested in, you should make sure that you are clear on a few important issues before you accept the job or sign a contract. Firstly, you should make sure that you have precise details regarding your pay scale, the amount of hours you will be expected to work, as well as any benefits you are entitled to such as travel expenses, health care or housing support. It is also a good idea to know what equipment and materials you will have access to when planning and carrying out your lessons. Finally, you should also enquire about the need for work permits or visas and whether the employer will help with the organisation and expense of any official paperwork you may require.

Job Expectations in the Czech Republic

Prague is a very popular city for English language teachers so you may find that the competition is quite fierce for the more prestigious jobs. Due to this competition, you might need to start out with a part time position or find work as a private tutor until you have some local experience to put on your CV/resume. You may also find that schools will only offer you a limited schedule at first so they can assess your teaching ability and commitment to the job. However, as long as you prove that you are professional and productive in the classroom, you should find that your hours, pay and overall working conditions will improve quite quickly.

While Prague offers plenty of job opportunities for qualified EFL teachers, you will also find some job prospects in the country’s many smaller towns. Often these positions will pay smaller salaries; however, the cost of living and the competition for jobs will be significantly less. The main benefit of working in these areas is the slower pace of life and the more traditional lifestyle and culture that you will find away from the big cities.