Looking Overseas for English Teaching Opportunities

State and federal budgets are tightening in the United States, and unfortunately, that means that teaching positions are on the chopping block. But teaching, generally, is more than just a job or even a career. For most educators, teaching is a calling - and one they can't ignore while still managing to live a satisfied life. But in the face of budget cuts and increasingly crowded classrooms, what it is a new or displaced teacher to do?


One alternative that many educational professionals are turning to as a means of satisfying their need to educate and inform while still gaining some income is to teach English overseas. According to About.com, English is the third most spoken language in the world. That means that people in non-English speaking countries are at an extreme disadvantage for global employment opportunities without the benefit of learning to speak English. The increasing popularity of the language combined with the numerous job opportunities introduced by the internet means that many countries want their citizens to have ample opportunity to study a language that is almost universally understood—and they are willing to spend money in order to make sure this happens.


When you look overseas for English teaching opportunities, you will find many agencies willing to represent you and place you in a viable location. It's important that you vet your agency before signing on with them. Look for testimonials from other teachers who have worked through them and make sure they have a program in place that assists you in adjusting to the new culture and teaches you how to best educate your new pupils in the language. You also want to make sure they have plenty of support resources for you once you leave.


It's important to remember that agencies don't always handle everything you need when you go abroad to teach English. One thing that you need to consider providing for yourself is travel health insurance. Your domestic health insurance coverage may not extend to cover you when you travel abroad. In addition, you may want the option of being able to have medical travel reimbursed so you can be treated in your home country.

While teaching English abroad isn't exactly a dangerous job, you can become ill or have an accident, no matter how careful you are. Travel health insurance along with an agency that has helpful resources to transplanted teachers are both vital tools on this adventure.