Finding work FAQs
When is the best time for me to look for work?
This varies from country to country. Generally speaking in Europe the academic year runs from October to the end of June. The recruitment is done locally so you need to be there and actively looking mid-September. The second best time is after the Christmas holidays. In other parts of the world starting dates vary: January in Japan, March in South America. Our graduates find work at all times of the year.
What if I'm a non-native?
Some schools will have policies whereby they will only hire native speakers due to client requirements but good English and a Trinity Cert. TESOL or Cambridge CELTA will usually be more important. Typically there is more demand for a non-native speaker in their country of origin. Germans are used to being taught English by German natives, for example. An advantage for non-native speakers is that they can offer another "useful" language. A French graduate from Oxford TEFL, for example, was employed by a language school because of her ability to teach both English and French.
What if I don't have a degree?
A few countries, notably Japan, will only employ teachers with a university degree. In most parts of the world your Trinity Cert. TESOL or Cambridge CELTA is sufficient.
What if I’m a more "mature" teacher?
Much depends on the background you have come from. You may have been in another industry for many years and some employers and students will like that you can show transferable skills.
What if I don’t speak the local language?
Occasionally, some schools like the teacher to know the basics of the local language when teaching kids classes (for discipline purposes) and / or low levels. This is not going to be a problem in the majority of countries as the whole point of the TESOL is that you give your lessons only in English. On the other hand you will be expected to make efforts to learn the language of the country where you work!
What if I’m a non-EU teacher?
In Europe you will have extra challenges to overcome when seeking work, as it is not easy for non-EU citizens to get a work permit. You will have to be very proactive and put more effort into searching for a TEFL job than EU citizens. However, many of our non-EU graduates are successful in finding work.
Can I use the TESOL Certificate to teach in the USA or UK?
Yes, the Trinity Cert TESOL is not just for those who want to travel and experience other parts of the world; it is highly practical for use at home. Many people do the course as a way to travel for a short period, but then find that it is equally useful when they return home, either permanently, or just for a short stop off. Just about every college and university in major cities in both the UK and the USA has an ESL programme, due to the enormous demand for English from the immigrant population. Even for those who return home after a period of TEFLing abroad to start a new career path, the Trinity TESOL course can be used to gain university credits towards masters degree programmes.