Poland

The demand for TEFL qualified teachers has been steadily growing in Poland for many years and the country now has one of the biggest markets for English language teachers in the region. Job opportunities can be found in many different areas including state-run schools, colleges and universities, as well as private corporations and language schools. Salaries are generally good in comparison to the cost of living so you should find that you can afford a comfortable lifestyle whilst living and working in Poland.

How to Find a TEFL Job in Poland

It is possible to secure a teaching position in Poland from outside of the country as many employers do advertise their vacant positions online. However, you will have a much wider choice of jobs if you start your search from within the country. The most effective method is to simply make contact with as many potential employers as you can find, even if they are not actually advertising any vacant positions. In order to find potential employers you can make use of a wide variety of sources including local newspapers, telephone and business directories, language teaching websites and online school directories.

Once you have compiled a list of potential employers you should contact their human resources department or even the school director by telephone or in person. You should also back up this initial contact by sending them an up-to-date CV/resume which includes a recent photograph. Hopefully this approach will result in a positive outcome, however, even if the schools you contact are not looking for anyone at the time, you should stay in touch with them because situations can change quite quickly in the language school environment.

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 Poland

When looking for TEFL jobs in Poland you will find that most of the better paid jobs will require an internationally recognised TEFL certificate and a university degree. You will also find that most schools will supply you with a very specific curriculum for the entire school year, although you are normally given some freedom to alter this to suit the needs of your students.