Are you considering teaching English in Spain? It can be an amazing experience, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in a foreign culture while earning money and making lifelong connections. But it’s not for everyone – there are many factors to consider before taking the plunge.

In this article, we’ll take an insider’s look at what it’s like to teach English in Spain. We’ll explore the benefits of living and working abroad, as well as some potential drawbacks. We’ll discuss salaries and qualifications needed to get started so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not teaching English in Spain is right for you.

What Is It Like To Live In Spain?

Spain is a beautiful and vibrant country, offering an exciting and unique culture. Before considering relocating there to teach English, it can be helpful to understand what life in Spain is like on a day-to-day basis. Let’s take a closer look.

Culture & Cuisine

The Spanish are known for their love of food, and the culture reflects this enthusiasm. From tapas to paella to sangria, the cuisine of Spain is varied and delicious. The Spanish enjoy savoring their meals with friends, taking time to relax while sharing stories and laughter over dinner.

This relaxed attitude towards dining extends throughout the day; breakfast is rarely rushed in the morning, lunchtime often lasts two hours or more in the afternoon, and dinner typically takes place around 9 or 10 pm. 

Work & Fun

People in Spain generally work fewer hours than those in other parts of Europe — the typical workweek is around 35 hours instead of 40. The Spanish also enjoy plenty of leisure time; they take pride in spending time with family and friends outside of work, whether that means swimming at the beach on the weekend or taking a long stroll through town after dinner. They tend to prioritize relaxation over productivity, which means there will be plenty of opportunities for fun when living in Spain! 

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Spain is relatively low compared to other countries. Rent and utilities are generally less expensive than in the United States, Canada, or the UK. In fact, the cost of living in Spain is, on average, 30.8% lower than in the United States.

Groceries and dining out can also be budget-friendly if you know where to look; there are plenty of affordable restaurants serving traditional Spanish dishes all over the country.

Qualifications & Salaries for Teaching English in Spain

In order to teach English as a foreign language in Spain, you’ll need to have a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of teaching experience. Most employers also require that you hold a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification, though some may offer on-the-job training in lieu of the certificate. At RVF International, you don’t need any experience or qualifications to get started – just a college degree!

Benefits Of Living And Working Abroad

There are so many benefits to living and working abroad in Spain. You’ll have the chance to learn a new language, immerse yourself in a foreign culture, make lifelong connections with locals, and explore some of the most stunning parts of Europe. Plus, you’ll get paid while experiencing all this! Let’s dive a little more into each benefit.

Increased Professional Development

One of the most significant benefits of working and living abroad is the chance to gain valuable professional skills, such as learning a new language or developing global problem-solving abilities. You’ll also have the opportunity to network with professionals from around the world, which can be extremely helpful for career advancement.

Improved Cultural Understanding

Working abroad provides an opportunity to experience a different culture firsthand, which can help broaden your perspective and open you up to new ways of thinking. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of other cultures and people groups, helping you develop empathy and build stronger relationships with those from different backgrounds.

Language Skills & Immersion

Living in a new country also provides an opportunity to learn and become fluent in a foreign language. You’ll be immersed in the culture, which will help you pick up the language more quickly than if you were just visiting for a short period of time.

Unique Travel Opportunities

Spain is home to a wide range of cultural and historical sites, from its picturesque seaside villages to the bustling city of Barcelona. And with its central location in Europe, Spain makes an ideal jumping-off point for exploring other countries in the region. With so many unique travel opportunities available, living in Spain is sure to be an adventure!

Making Lifelong Connections

Finally, living abroad can help you make lifelong connections with people from all over the world. You’ll build strong relationships and create memories that will stay with you long after your time in Spain is finished.

Drawbacks Of Living And Working Abroad

As with any adventure, there are potential drawbacks to living and working abroad. Here are some of the common challenges you may encounter:

Culture Shock

Moving to a new culture can be overwhelming at times. You might need time to adjust to different customs, languages, food, and social norms—something that may not have been easy if you were just visiting for a short period of time.

Harder To Establish Credit

When you move abroad, it can be difficult to establish credit in your new country. This can make it harder to open a bank account or get a loan if you ever need one. While there are a few banks that offer internationally accepted credit cards, they typically come with high interest rates.

Separation From Family & Friends

When living abroad, you will be separated from your family and friends back home. This can make it difficult to stay connected, especially if you’re in a different time zone or have limited access to technology. It also means that you’ll miss out on important life events such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays.

Missing Home Comforts

Lastly, living abroad means you’ll have to get used to a new lifestyle and potentially different standards of comfort. For example, if you’re used to having access to all the latest technology and amenities, you may find it difficult to adjust to life in a country with fewer resources.

Potential For Homesickness

Living abroad can be a lonely and isolating experience at times. You may miss your family and friends back home, and it can be difficult to stay connected with them when you’re in different time zones. The language barrier can also make it difficult to make local connections, which can add to the feeling of loneliness.

What To Know Before Applying To Teach English In Spain

Applying to teach English in Spain can be an exciting endeavor for language lovers and those eager to spend time living in a foreign country. Before applying, it is important to become familiar with the basics of teaching in Spain. It is helpful to begin by understanding what qualifications are necessary to qualify for a position, such as TEFL certification or native English fluency. Additionally, potential teachers should investigate where they will likely find positions; larger cities with pockets of international communities may be more likely to offer openings than small rural towns with fewer cultural exchanges.

Next, applicants should research the application process, including what documents are included in applications, such as CVs, letters of recommendation, and copies of diplomas or certificates. Beyond the required paperwork, teachers may wish to prepare other materials that make their applications stand out, such as samples of lesson plans or portfolios demonstrating past teaching experience.

Finally, while teachers cannot always predict what kind of schools they will work at until they arrive in Spain, prospective educators should get an idea of different types of teaching environments available in the country by looking at historical data and speaking with former participants. Additionally, it is important to understand the salary structure and any additional expenses associated with teaching, such as housing or visa fees, BEFORE accepting a job offer. Knowing these details ahead of time can help candidates feel certain that they are making the right decision before investing their time and effort into applying for jobs abroad.

If this sounds overwhelming, RVF International is here to help! Our team is dedicated to easing the process of teaching English abroad, and we’re here to provide support throughout your application.

When Is Teaching English Abroad a Good Idea?

Is teaching English abroad worth it? That depends on your personal goals and circumstances. Before packing your bags and jetting off to teach abroad, take some time to reflect on your motivations and expectations. Teaching English overseas isn’t just about escaping your current situation or taking an extended vacation. It’s a serious commitment that requires dedication, cultural sensitivity, and a genuine interest in education.

Let’s explore some scenarios where teaching English abroad might be an excellent choice for you:

You Need a Career Change

If you’re feeling stuck in your current job and craving a fresh start, teaching English abroad could be the perfect opportunity. It’s a chance to break free from the monotony of your daily routine and immerse yourself in a new culture. As home to many English teachers abroad, we’ve found that this experience can reignite your passion for learning and open doors to exciting career paths you might never have considered before.

Teaching abroad allows you to develop valuable skills like classroom management, cross-cultural communication, and adaptability. These skills are highly transferable and can boost your resume, making you a more attractive candidate in various industries when you return home.

You’re Fresh Out of College But Not Sure Which Way to Go

Just graduated and feeling uncertain about your future? Teaching English abroad can be an excellent way to gain real-world experience while figuring out your long-term goals. It’s a chance to explore a new country, learn a second language, and develop important life skills. Many RVF International program attendees have started their teaching careers this way, using their time abroad to reflect on their passions and interests. The experience of living in a foreign country and working with diverse students can help clarify your career aspirations and personal values.

You’re Fresh Out of College, and You Know Teaching English Is Right for You

If you’ve already decided that teaching is your calling, starting your career abroad can be an incredible opportunity. It’s a chance to gain valuable classroom experience, develop your teaching style, and build confidence in your abilities. Teaching abroad allows you to hone your skills in a supportive environment while experiencing the joys and challenges of living in a different culture. This experience can make you a more well-rounded and competitive candidate when applying for teaching positions back home or pursuing further education.

You Know It’s More Than Just a Vacation

Sure, you’ll be teaching English in one of Spain’s fabulous locations, but this program isn’t a glorified vacation. It’s a serious commitment that requires hard work, patience, and dedication. If you’re approaching this opportunity with the right mindset – ready to embrace challenges, learn from your students, and contribute meaningfully to your host community – then it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. We’ve seen many English teachers thrive when they approach their time abroad as a chance for personal and professional growth. It takes focus and commitment if you want to make a difference in your students’ lives, challenge yourself, and gain a new perspective on the world.

Conclusion: Is Teaching In Spain Worth It?

Simply put: Yes! Teaching English in Spain can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only will it provide you with the opportunity to live abroad and immerse yourself in Spanish culture, but it also offers a range of benefits for your professional development. With RVF International’s support, finding a job teaching English in Spain is easier than ever before – so don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!

Be sure to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve your teaching dreams in Spain!