Resource Information

There are literally hundreds of jobs right here in Toronto and thousands of jobs abroad. The internet is a great place to start your search, but be careful, always keep your eyes open and if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Here is some information on where you might want to be and why:

Careers in Canada

Canada is the natural choice for most of our TESL students looking for a career as an ESL teacher. There are hundreds of ESL schools right here in Canada, from east to west, that teach English as a second language. Most schools are in a constant struggle to find qualified teachers. Most reputable schools in Canada now belong to the Canadian Association of Private Language Schools (CAPLS). Any school that belongs to CAPLS is at least three years old and must abide by the association's code of ethics, which makes CAPLS schools a safer bet. CLC is the other association of language schools and are a good starting point. Check out both associations and get their school lists. Both CAPLS and CLC schools are required to hire only qualified teachers for their courses. The IHT TESL Program is recognized by both associations. Salaries in Canada range anywhere from about $12.00 to over $20.00 an hour, depending on your experience and position at the school. Typical work week is between 20 to 40 hours. Busy seasons in Canada generally starts in April and runs well into September for some schools. Schools will take on permanent and temporary teachers, and if you are a good teacher they will keep you around after busy season is over. In general ESL teachers are in great demand, and if you are personable and can make a class interesting you will always have a well paying job in a good school.

Teach Overseas

Korea, Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong are the biggest employers of ESL teachers in Asia and in the world. Canadian teachers are well treated in all of these countries. The salaries are quite high and most ESL teachers use their savings to pay off loans and make much more money than they would in Canada or the US. Travel expenses are generally covered by the employer, as is medical and accommodation fees. Teachers traveling and returning from Asia should remember and realize that the salaries back home are not nearly as high as in Asia and adjust their expectations accordingly. China, Indonesia and Thailand are all fast growing ESL markets and like the other Asian countries are amazing places to travel and learn about the culture and their people. Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, U.A.E., Egypt, Lebanon, Israel and Turkey are all countries that offer good wages and great employers, but you should do your research and learn as much about the culture and people as you can before you take a job in any middle eastern country.

Adventure

If making money is not your top priority, Latin America and Africa are amazing destinations for traveling and offer everything from big city partying to rainforest exploration. All in all, getting a TESL degree is like having a passport to travel the world without having to worry about money. You will always find a job in almost any country in the world and always be welcomed in whatever setting you prefer.