Do You Need a Degree to Teach English in Spain?
If English is your native language and you’re ready for a new experience, you might consider becoming an English teacher abroad. This could be the perfect opportunity to make money and travel while you share your native language with others. But what if you have no official teaching credentials or experience? Could you still teach English in Spain?
At RVF International, we offer native speakers the opportunity to teach English abroad in Spain! And the great news is, no, you do not need a teaching degree or a certification in English! One of the requirements for our program is that you have a Bachelor’s or Associate’s Diploma, but it does not need to be related to teaching in any way. If you do wish to strengthen your skills while in Spain, we can help you get TEFL/TESOL certified and even give you a discount on the programs, opening more opportunities for you in the future.
What Your Role Will Be in the Classroom
It’s important to understand what your role in the classroom would be. Our program participants, known at the schools as language assistants, teach in the classrooms of Spanish elementary, middle, and high schools. As a language assistant, you will act as an aid to the main teacher. You’ll be a linguistic model for the students. Since you are a native speaker, listening to and interacting with you will help the students perfect their pronunciation. At the same time, you can give insight into your own culture. Your goal is ultimately to engage the students and make the English teaching more interactive and immersive. As a native speaker, you are already an expert in your own language, and we’ll provide you the opportunity to share this expertise. This job is very rewarding, as the students are very eager to communicate with someone who is a native speaker. At the same time, you’ll get the chance to learn Spanish and explore beautiful Spain and its rich culture.
What Other Qualifications Will I Need?
While a degree may not be strictly necessary to teach English in Spain, there are several other qualifications that you’ll likely need. First and foremost is the TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. This globally recognized qualification equips you with the skills and knowledge to effectively instruct non-native English speakers. It covers areas such as lesson planning, classroom management, and teaching grammar.
In addition to this, you’ll also need a work or student visa to legally teach in Spain. The type of visa required can depend on various factors, including your nationality and the length of your stay. You should check with the Spanish embassy in your home country for the most accurate information.
Different teaching programs and schools in Spain may have their own unique requirements. For instance, the government-run language assistant program, NALCAP, mandates that applicants hold at least a 2-year associate’s degree in any field. Conversely, private language schools often look for candidates who possess a bachelor’s degree. They may also prefer candidates with prior teaching experience or those who have lived in an English-speaking country for a significant period.
Proficiency in Spanish can be a huge asset. While it’s not always required, having a basic understanding of the local language can make your transition easier and improve your overall teaching experience.
Can a Teaching Degree Still Help?
A teaching degree isn’t strictly necessary for teaching English in Spain, but it can certainly give you an edge. Having a teaching degree not only demonstrates your passion for education but also signifies your professional training in the field. Plus, it may open doors to higher-paying jobs and more prestigious schools. However, if you don’t have a teaching degree, don’t worry. As long as you have a university degree in any subject and a TEFL certification, you can still pursue English teaching jobs in Spain and have great success.
Insights into Other Preferences
When hiring teachers, programs in Spain consider a variety of factors. While academic qualifications are important, they’re not the only thing that matters.
Being a native English speaker is highly attractive to employers. This is because it ensures a high level of English proficiency and a natural, fluent accent — both of which are crucial when teaching English as a foreign language. Clean criminal records are also a must. You can expect most schools to request a background check as part of the application process.
Previous teaching experience is another significant advantage. If you’ve taught before, whether in your home country or abroad, you’ll likely be viewed as a more attractive candidate. Experience shows that you’re familiar with a classroom environment and have developed effective teaching strategies. Many employers value cultural adaptability and open-mindedness. They appreciate teachers who are willing to embrace Spanish culture and immerse themselves in the local community.
Additionally, some employers may prefer candidates with a basic understanding of Spanish. While you’ll be teaching in English, knowing Spanish can help you communicate more effectively with staff, parents, and even students.
Advice for Aspiring Teachers With or Without a Degree
Regardless of whether you have a degree, the key to successfully landing a teaching job in Spain is preparation. Research the various teaching programs and schools in Spain to understand their specific requirements. Consider gaining some teaching experience before heading to Spain. This could be through volunteering, tutoring, or even online teaching. Not only will this bolster your resume, but it will also give you practical skills and confidence in the classroom. With the right qualifications and preparation, you can still achieve your dream of teaching abroad!
Contact RVF International to Start Your Teaching Abroad Journey
We are an international exchange and education company, and we want to bridge the gap between travelers, teachers, adventurers, students, dreamers, explorers, and their destinations. If you want to teach in Spain, you are in the right place! What are you waiting for? Contact our team today, and we’ll help you fulfill your dream of teaching English overseas in Spain!