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TEFL

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) typically refers to teaching English to non-native speakers in countries where English is not the primary language. When referring to teaching English to non-native speakers within the UK, the term TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is often used.  

TEFL can help fund travel, serve as a meaningful summer job, or be part of a gap year experience, whether in the UK or abroad. For those considering a future in classroom teaching, it also provides valuable hands-on experience. Beyond short-term opportunities, TEFL can also evolve into a fulfilling, long-term career in education.  There are opportunities to teach across a wide range of age groups and educational settings, including primary and secondary schools, colleges, universities, and adult education. You can also specialise in specific areas, such as teaching business English. To learn more about the day to duties of a TEFL teacher visit the English as a foreign language teacher (Prospects) and TEFL/TESL teacher (TARGETjobs) job profiles. 

If you are considering teaching abroad, it's important to be aware that qualification requirements vary by country. The country profiles on Prospects include a 'Teaching' section that outlines the minimum qualifications needed for each destination. For advice on TEFL courses read Teaching English abroad and How to choose a TEFL course and find work after qualifying. For further support in selecting the right course or pathway, see the ‘Further study and professional development’ section below.  

The following recording from a recent alumni event may be of interest: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).  

Skills employers look for

Every employer is different so there are no definitive lists here. These are meant as a guide and should be considered in addition to thoroughly reviewing the person specification, job description and job advert for each role you’re interested in before applying. 

  • Collaboration and Teamwork: You will be working in interdisciplinary teams and could work with others to contribute to departmental projects. Collaboration is key, both within and across institutions. 
  • Communication: Strong written and verbal communication is essential not only for teaching but also for collaborating with colleagues, and communicating with students and stakeholders.
  • Interpersonal and Networking: Building relationships with colleagues, peers, students, and external partners is vital for career development.
  • Organisation and Time Management: Balancing multiple responsibilities such as teaching, planning, administration, and student supervision requires excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage time efficiently.
  • Passion for your subject: A deep and evolving understanding of your discipline is essential. This includes staying up to date with current research, trends, and developments in your field.
  • Research: It is very likely you will want to develop interesting and engaging lesson plans for your students for which research skills are required.   

To learn more about the skills required as a TEFL teacher and the day-to-day duties you can expect, visit English as a foreign language teacher job profile | Prospects.ac.uk 

In order to develop these skills, remember Career Zone also offers a range of Personal and Professional Development sessions which are available to book on Handshake and run at least once per term.  Please also read through the sections about Gaining Experience and Further Study and Professional Development to discover how you can develop your skills through experience and by gaining further knowledge or qualifications.   

Gaining Experience

While some short-term TEFL positions may be open to those with little or no experience, it is recommended to gain some teaching-related experience before applying for roles or committing to a TEFL qualification. 

  • Teaching or tutoring experience – work experience or shadowing in an international school or a college that teaches English as a second language, however any experience related to teaching or tutoring is likely to be beneficial. For ideas on how to find this experience visit our Teaching in Early Years, Schools and FE page (add hyperlink). 
  • British Council English Language Assistant roles - this programme offers paid teaching placements abroad, providing the perfect opportunity to travel, teach and gain invaluable experiences along the way. 
  • Volunteering in the UK - at community centres, libraries, or immigrant/refugee services. Signpost to Student Action for Refugees (STAR) e.g. English conversation clubs. 
  • Volunteering internationally – especially in education or community development. Visit Volunteering abroad for further information. 

Aspiring Teachers The University’s Aspiring Teachers programme offers a range of opportunities to help you gain valuable teaching and education experience - helping you build your skills, boost your confidence, and enhance your CV. These opportunities include: 

  • Action Tutoring’s Volunteer Placement Opportunities
  • Aspiring Teachers at the RAMMuseum
  • Axiom Maths Circle Mentor
  • CoachBright Volunteer Coaches
  • Enrichment Programme Volunteers at St James Secondary
  • Exeter Student Ambassador Scheme
  • Learning for Teaching Module
  • Paid Teaching Internships
  • Peer Mentor Scheme
  • The Brilliant Club 

Finding advertised graduate roles, placements and internships

Competition can be strong, especially for entry-level positions. Use the following resources to find advertised vacancies and research employers.  

 It is important to research each employer to help you decide whether they are a right fit for you.   

For general information about finding graduate opportunities, please visit our Graduate Jobs page. Y

Graduate schemes  

  • JET Programme (Japanese Exchange and Teaching) is an initiative that aims to enrich Japan’s foreign language education and promote internationalisation by inviting people from around the world to be employed by local governments and related organisations in Japan. 

Further sources of support 

If you are an international student, visit our international webpages for help finding opportunities both in the UK and globally. 

To find opportunities outside the UK use GoinGlobal.

Further study and professional development

TEFL qualifications  

While not all TEFL positions require a formal qualification, having one can significantly increase your chances of securing a well-paid role with a reputable employer. Before enrolling in a course, it’s important to research the specific requirements of the country where you’d like to teach. The country profiles on Prospects are a useful starting point. It’s also worth thinking about your long-term goals: are you aiming to build a career in TEFL, or are you looking for a short-term opportunity during a gap year or summer break? Your goals will help guide how much time and money you invest in training. 

For guidance on how to choose which TEFL qualification is right for you visit How to choose a TEFL course and find work after qualifying. 

Further qualifications 

Once you have completed your TEFL qualification and want to progress in your career, you may consider completing further qualifications. The most common are:  

You can also go on to study for an MA in subjects such as Teaching English as a Foreign Language or Applied Linguistics.  

Information and links from professional bodies 

If you have studied a related degree, check if your course is accredited by one of the professional bodies. Being a member of a professional body is voluntary; however, it can be valuable for developing networks, continuing your professional development, and generally keeping up to date with what's happening in the sector.  

Advice 

If you are considering postgraduate or doctoral level study before entering your chosen sector, please visit our Postgraduate Study page for more information about choosing further study.