Teach English in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic stands at the heart of Central Europe as a gateway between western and eastern European ideals and culture. A glance into this unique part of the world captures the tightly fitted red-roofed houses that rise from the cobblestone streets winding into alleyways, hidden passageways, unlikely architectural surprises and trendy restaurants and bars.

In current years, the Czech Republic has developed into an important location for business, investment and tourism. English teachers at public schools, language academies and private tutors have grown in demand in the capital city of Prague and smaller rural towns.

In order to teach English in the Czech Republic, most teachers will require a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field. Many private language schools require TEFL or CELTA certification. The average salary for teaching in the Czech Republic is $600 - $1,000 per month.

Public Schools:

Two semester schools run September-June. Although some openings may be found at the half-term (January/February). Qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in English or a related field. Additional qualification (RSA TEFL certification) is necessary for applicants who are graduates of a non-related subject. Previous teaching experience preferred. Most of the teaching positions at public schools are in smaller towns of Czech Republic. The possibility of obtaining a teaching post in Prague is somewhat limited.

Private Language Academies/Schools:

There are many opportunities for teachers at private language schools throughout the Czech Republic, and these positions are some of the easiest to land. These schools are generally after-schools hours as additional language tutoring for students. They hire year round and offer convenient hours. There are plenty of these schools throughout the country!

Private Tutoring:

You can also advertise through newspapers, local cafes, and online websites such as Learn English Prague, to find jobs as a private tutor for children, adults, or through companies looking to train their workers. For this type of job, though, it will be helpful to know some Czech to arrange things with your potential clients.

Where and When to Look for Jobs:

Although there are many teaching opportunities in the capital city, Prague is a popular destination for English teachers worldwide which causes heavy competition in applying for jobs. Other cities throughout the Czech Republic are in need of English teachers and would offer an in-depth experience of the culture and Czech countryside with easy access to the city. Most jobs can be found using online resources. The most popular teaching destinations in the Czech Republic are: Prague, Liberec, Hradec Kralove, South Moravia: Brno, South Bohemian Region: Ceske Bud Jovice, and Olomouc.

Qualifications:

Qualifications to teach at Public Schools in the Czech Republic include a Bachelor's degree in English or a related field. Additional qualification (RSA TEFL certification) is necessary for applicants who are graduates of a non-related subject. Previous teaching experience preferred.

Qualifications to teach at Private Language Schools are TEFL/CELTA/DELTA/TESOL certification (accepting on-site courses), time flexibility and a willingness to teach in different places within the Czech Republic. Additionally, some schools require EU citizenship or a Czech business license, see the individual school website for details.

Salary & Cost of Living:

Salary for teachers in the Czech Republic varies from $600-$1000 per month working an average of 25 hours a week. Private tutors can make between $12-$25 depending on the institution and qualifications. A teacher with a TEFL certificate, university degree, and previous teaching experience, for example, will receive a starting salary higher than someone who has just finished training.

Accommodation, which is generally scarce, will be arranged for by the school. It should be reasonably priced or free of charge. The housing depends on the local possibilities and is usually quite simple and suitable for one person, for example a small furnished flat, a room with toilet and bath facilities in a dormitory or accommodation with a Czech family.

Although costs can be comparable to other parts of the EU, the Czech Republic's refusal to adopt the Euro and use the Czech Koruna helps western travelers enjoy a higher exchange rate. Here are some basic costs that you can expect to find in Prague:

• Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre - $613.42
• Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre - $421.73
• Basic Utilities -$178.91
• Transportation Monthly Pass - $28.12
• Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant - $5.11
• Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle) - $0.7

Classroom & Work Culture:

• Student-teacher relations: This is somewhat dependent on the policies of the particular schools, with some encouraging more disciplinary actions and other less. Ultimately, there is a clear and definite difference in levels of power and authority between teachers and students.
• Dress code: Men and women usually wear business casual clothing to teach students.
• Greetings: Greetings are usually reserved and colleagues meet with a simple handshake.

Relocating to a different country can be scary and stressful but in the end, it will be an immensely rewarding experience. The Czech Republic is a growing and evolving country, and with the various opportunities for work, you are sure to find one that speaks to you!

Contributed by Danielle Stevens