Finding Your Path: Teaching English Abroad to Adults

The decision to make a major life change—like moving abroad—often comes from a crossroads. Perhaps a living situation isn’t working, or a deep-seated desire for adventure finally bubbles to the surface. For many, this moment of reconsideration becomes the catalyst for exploring the world of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL).

If you find yourself at this juncture, know that you’re not alone. The path of teaching English overseas is well-trodden and full of possibilities, especially for those with experience.

Leveraging Your Experience

A significant background in teaching, particularly online and with adults, is a tremendous asset. Schools and language institutes worldwide highly value educators who understand the nuances of adult learning—managing classroom dynamics, focusing on professional or conversational goals, and tailoring lessons to real-world application.

This experience sets you apart and can open doors to more specialized and often better-compensated roles than typical entry-level positions.

Focusing on the Adult Learner Market

The good news is that the demand for adult English instruction is robust. Many professionals seek to improve their English for career advancement, while others learn for travel or personal enrichment.

Key sectors to target include:

• Corporate Language Training: Companies often hire teachers for in-house programs.
• Private Language Academies: Many schools have separate departments or entire branches dedicated to adult students.
• University and College Programs: Positions teaching English for Academic Purposes (EAP) or general skills to university students.
• Online Teaching Companies: Your existing skills here can sometimes be transferred to a company based in your target country, offering a local salary and benefits.

Where to Look for Opportunities

Your job search should be strategic. Casting a wide net is good, but targeting the right platforms yields better results.

Start with specialized job boards:

• TEFL.com: A premier site with global listings, often featuring adult-teaching roles.
• Dave’s ESL Cafe: A longstanding hub with comprehensive job boards for major regions.
• LinkedIn: Optimize your profile and use its job search with keywords like “Business English Trainer” or “Adult ESL Teacher.”

Don’t overlook direct applications: Research and identify reputable private language chains (like British Council, Wall Street English, or local top-tier academies) and apply directly through their career portals.

Understanding Compensation Packages

The question of flights and accommodation is crucial. Packages vary dramatically by country and employer.

• South Korea: Public school programs (like EPIK) and some hagwons (private academies) often include airfare and housing. However, many adult-focused hagwons may offer a higher salary instead, requiring you to arrange your own housing.
• Vietnam: It’s less common for adult teaching jobs to include housing or flights. The standard is a competitive local salary that allows you to comfortably cover living expenses and save. Signing bonuses or flight reimbursement are possible perks.
• Indonesia: Similar to Vietnam, packages typically focus on salary. Some international schools or university positions might offer housing allowances.

Pro Tip: A higher salary without provided housing often gives you more freedom and can be financially equivalent or better once you’re settled.

Taking the Next Step

Begin by updating your CV to highlight your seven years of experience, specifically your success with adult learners. Prepare a professional teaching philosophy statement. Then, start engaging with the job boards and setting up alerts.

Remember, your expertise is your ticket. This isn’t about starting over; it’s about transporting your valuable skills to a new and exciting context. The world of adult ESL is waiting for dedicated teachers ready to make the leap.