How to become a TEFL teacher | i-to-i TEFL

TEFL Teachers Finding Love!

Posted on February 1, 2025February 3, 2025 by Jon

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Whether you’ve got a romantic day with your significant other planned or are going to paint the town red with a group of friends, Valentine’s Day reminds us to think about the people, who are important to us in life.

When you’re teaching English abroad, you’re going to meet a lot of different people from all over the world and Cupid has the habit of striking when you least expect it.

For TEFL teachers, romance whilst travelling can be confusing, as sometimes there are fears that this falls into the “holiday romance” stereotype or fears over how long-distance relationships allegedly just don’t last.

But do TEFL teachers find love when abroad? And is it a love that lasts?

Meet Stef and Neil

We’ve asked around and love as a TEFL teacher is indeed in the air.

Meet Stef McLoughlin from Malta, who has been a TEFL teacher doing various jobs since 2004. She’s worked as a Director of Studies at a large chain school and is currently a freelance TEFL teacher with her own home tuition brand: Schwa Home Tuition focusing on one to one classes and small groups.

We interviewed Stef to find out how she met her significant other, Neil, while working abroad.

Where were you when you met your significant other?

I’d worked on and off in the UK from the age of 18, teaching mainly on residential courses. I met Neil while working on a short contract close to Tunbridge Wells, not the most exotic TEFL location!

We worked in a beautiful manor house in Bedgebury pinetum. We still go there for walks from time to time.

Why were you both there?

I was working at the time, teaching on residential courses. Neil was at the same school working as the Social Programme Co-ordinator.

How did you meet?

We met when I first arrived and Neil introduced himself. He then asked me out, however, I didn’t realise it was a date and I took a friend along. We got close very quickly, especially as we were working at a residential school in the middle of nowhere with nowhere to go.

When did you know it was long-term?

I was in Tunbridge Wells for a month before going back to Malta. Neil got a flight to come see me a week after I had left. We were long distance for six months where I’d pop up to London for weekends and Neil would visit me in Malta. After six months, Neil gave up his job in Tunbridge Wells and moved to Malta to be with me. We lived in Malta for two years working in language schools. We’ve now been together for 9 years and we’ve been married for two.

Where do you both live now?

How did you decide to live there?

We now live in Brighton. We decided to move to Brighton as I wanted to do a master’s degree in TESOL at the University of Brighton. We were only meant to be here for a year, but we’ve been here for almost seven years. Neil’s from Liverpool and as I’m from Malta, Brighton is kind of an in-between place (people always laugh at this).

We absolutely love Brighton, it’s vibrant, exciting and most importantly it’s by the sea!

What advice would you give to those, who think they have found romance abroad, but are worried it’s a holiday romance only?

Don’t let anyone tell you it’s not the real thing or that it can’t work out because it’s a holiday romance, only you can know that. If it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be. The world is so small, flights make everywhere so accessible, just get on that plane to go visit your significant other!

Thanks so much to Stef for sharing her TEFL love story with us.

It’s amazing how the UK is one of the most likely places to find love, even Tinder has confirmed this.

But there are plenty of more far-flung places, where romance is in the air this Valentine’s Day. If you enjoy travelling and want to combine this with a teaching career or are just looking to teach to fund a trip abroad, then one of our TEFL courses could be what you’ve been looking for.

Or if you have a TEFL love story you’d like to share, comment below or share on our social channels.

References:

http://www.statisticbrain.com/long-distance-relationship-statistics/

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-3690325/Looking-holiday-romance-Tinder-reveals-15-cities-tourists-love-local-number-one-surprise-you.html

Teaching English abroad: What to expect from your first year

Posted on January 14, 2025January 14, 2025 by Fiona Lampard

Stepping into your first year of teaching English abroad is a thrilling yet nerve-wracking experience. Whether you’re heading to the lively streets of Tokyo, the sun-drenched beaches of Costa Rica, or the historic cities of Italy, your journey as a TEFL teacher will be one of personal growth, professional development, and cultural discovery.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you might encounter during your first year as a TEFL Teacher and how to tackle any challenges head-on.

1. Embracing cultural differences

One of the most enriching aspects of teaching abroad is the opportunity to immerse yourself in a different culture. From the food to the festivals, every day presents a chance to learn something new. However, cultural differences can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you encounter customs or traditions that are completely unfamiliar.

For example, in Japan, teachers are highly respected, and it’s customary to bow to your colleagues and students. Meanwhile, in Latin American countries, the emphasis might be on building warm, personal relationships with your students and their families. These cultural nuances can take some getting used to.

Tips for success:

Take time to observe and understand the local way of life. Join in community events, try the traditional dishes, and learn about local history.
Make an effort to learn key phrases in the local language. Even a simple greeting in the native tongue can break the ice and show respect.
Approach cultural differences with an open mind and a sense of humour. If you accidentally offend someone, apologise and use it as a learning experience.

2. Finding your groove in the classroom

Your first year in the TEFL classroom may bring moments of uncertainty. Whether you’re teaching young learners or adults, you’ll encounter students with a range of abilities, learning styles, and personalities. For instance, in some countries, students may be shy and hesitant to speak up, while in others, they might be lively and full of questions.

Classroom management can also be a hurdle. You might find yourself juggling lesson plans, managing behaviour, and adapting to different teaching resources. In South Korea, for example, some schools have cutting-edge technology like smartboards, while others rely on traditional chalkboards.

Tips for success:

Start by establishing clear expectations and routines. Consistency will help you build trust and create a positive learning environment.
Use a variety of teaching techniques to keep lessons engaging. Incorporate games, group activities, and visual aids to cater to different learning preferences.
Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback from your students or colleagues. This can help you refine your teaching approach and build confidence.

3. Dealing with homesickness

It’s natural to miss home, especially during special occasions like birthdays or holidays. You might find yourself craving familiar foods, missing family traditions, or simply wishing for a chat with your closest friends. Homesickness can feel isolating, but it’s something that most expats experience.

If you’re teaching in a country with a completely different holiday calendar, like China, where Chinese New Year is a major celebration, you might also feel out of sync with the festive season back home.

Tips for success:

Schedule regular video calls with loved ones to stay connected. Share your experiences and listen to what’s happening back home.
Create a sense of home in your new environment by decorating your living space with photos, your favourite items, or even cooking comfort food from your home country.
Build a local support network by joining expat groups or participating in community activities. Having friends who understand your experience can make a world of difference.

4. Adjusting to the workplace culture

Workplace expectations can vary widely across countries. In some places, such as Thailand, schools might have a more relaxed atmosphere, while in others, like Germany, punctuality and formality are highly valued. Understanding these differences is key to thriving in your new role.

For instance, in South Korea, it’s common for teachers to participate in after-school activities or social events with colleagues, which are seen as opportunities to build camaraderie. In contrast, teachers in Spain may enjoy long lunch breaks and a more flexible schedule.

Tips for success:

Pay close attention to how your colleagues interact and follow their lead. This will help you adapt to the school’s work culture.
Communicate openly with your employer about any uncertainties. They’ll appreciate your willingness to learn and adapt.
Keep a positive attitude and show genuine enthusiasm for your role. This will help you build strong relationships with both colleagues and students.

5. Overcoming unexpected challenges

No matter how well you prepare, surprises are bound to pop up. From navigating public transportation to dealing with last-minute schedule changes, your problem-solving skills will be put to the test in your first year as a TEFL Teacher. For instance, you might find yourself standing in front of a class with a lesson plan that suddenly feels inadequate or trying to navigate a foreign city’s complex subway system.

Tips for success:

Stay calm and approach each challenge as an opportunity to grow. Remember, every TEFL teacher has been in your shoes at some point.
Seek advice from fellow teachers or locals. They can offer practical tips and reassurance.
Celebrate your small wins, whether it’s successfully teaching a tricky grammar point or mastering the art of ordering food in a new language.

6. Exploring your new surroundings

Your first year of teaching English abroad isn’t just about work; it’s also about exploring and embracing your new home. Take advantage of your weekends and holidays to discover what makes your host country unique. Whether it’s hiking through lush jungles in Vietnam, sipping coffee at a Parisian café, or visiting ancient temples in Cambodia, the possibilities are endless.

Tips for success:

Plan short trips to nearby towns or landmarks to break up your routine and experience the diversity of your host country.
Try local foods and learn the stories behind them. Food is often a gateway to understanding a culture more deeply.
Document your adventures through photos, journaling, or blogging. Not only will this help you reflect on your journey, but it’ll also create lasting memories.

Ready to begin your TEFL adventure?

Your first year of teaching English abroad will undoubtedly be a life-changing experience. From personal growth to professional development, the rewards of stepping into the world of English language teaching jobs abroad are immense. While there may be challenges along the way, each one is an opportunity to learn, grow, and create unforgettable memories.

If you haven’t yet earned your TEFL qualification, now is the perfect time to take the leap. Our accredited online TEFL courses are designed to equip you with the skills and confidence you need to land teaching jobs abroad and excel in your first year. Don’t wait—start your journey today and unlock a world of exciting teaching abroad positions!

How to decide where to start TEFLing

Posted on February 18, 2020April 22, 2021 by Victoria Taylor

One of the best things about teaching English abroad is that there are so many destination options! With a high demand for TEFL teachers all over the world, the list of where you could teach is endless. So, how do you decide where to start TEFLing? Start by asking yourself these questions…

Top 10 Homesickness Tips When Teaching Abroad

Posted on December 14, 2016July 15, 2019 by catherinegreenwood

Teaching abroad is an amazing experience and brings many unforgettable memories and adventures with it.

Destinations like Thailand, China, and Vietnam have great wonders and new cultures to explore and discover first hand.

Why do we feel homesick?

Yet no matter how adventurous you are and how many new friends you make, homesickness when teaching abroad can hit any of us. Just to be clear that’s absolutely okay.

It doesn’t mean you’re not as adventurous as you thought or that you’re not having a good time, it just means that you’re human and are reflecting on how your new experiences compare to the old ones.

The longing for home can be triggered by something small like a conversation that reminds you of a similar one you’ve had before with friends or family back home, or it can something bigger, like a key holiday time like Christmas, Easter or your birthday.

You may be teaching far away from home, where these holidays are acknowledged in different ways, but Christmas in particular is growing throughout the world, so you’re likely to encounter reminders of it wherever you are.
So, what do you do if homesickness strikes? Our TEFL teachers and interns have experience with this, so we’ve put together some useful tips:

1. Keep going

There’s a reason you were inspired to teach abroad, you just need a reminder. When emotions are high this can seem too difficult, so here are some suggestions:

a. Bucket List

Write down a bucket list of the places you need to visit or see before going back home, then try to tick as many off this list as you can. The process of putting this list together will help you get into the same inspired state you were in before homesickness came along.

b. Document or photograph

Keeping a journal of where you’ve been and what you’ve seen can be very therapeutic. So, too can taking pictures of what you see. This can be something as straightforward as going to the market or even your commute to school. Use your creativity to re-ignite your wanderlust.

2. Create a routine

A very useful quote from Jim Ryun, American track & field athlete, is: “Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.”

We all need a sense of routine. New habits and a new routine for your new home will help you feel more at home, but don’t mistake routine for boring. This is your adventure, so create the habits you want to have while here.

3. Talk about it

Talking is a great healer. Sometimes just saying that we feel homesick out-loud already makes us feel more able to tackle it. Talking with friends or family back home, or sharing your feelings with new friends or roommates or other TEFL interns is a great way to cope with homesickness.

4. Don’t feed it

Talking is important, but beware. Homesickness is a hungry beast and a phone call can turn into a weekly catch-up and then into a daily call that you get overwhelmed or can upset you if you miss it.

Keeping in touch with family and friends is important, but if you’re getting more homesick every time you speak with them or see what they’re doing on social media, then a break from it may be just the thing. No need to completely cut everyone off, but reduce the frequency of catching up and checking messages.

5. Dive in and challenge yourself

Which leads us to tip #5. Get out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself. It’s so tempting to stay hidden and feel sad, but don’t let this control your actions.

There’s so much to see and do, which you’ve been dreaming of doing. Dive into trips and activities or just get out there and meet new people. You may not feel motivated when you first start, but the activities will soon get you in the mood for more. Anyhow, everything is better with others to share experiences with.

6. Share home comforts

Sharing is caring, and with your new group of friends why not share stories of home with them, as well as the things you miss. Craving that Sunday roast? (even though you never thought you would) Do it yourself and invite others to join you.

Or have a big cultural food exchange, where everyone brings their favourite comfort food to share. You may find a new comfort food, you would’ve never known about.

7. Learn something new

People have a natural drive to gather information. We need “input” to feel good and as a TEFL teacher you’ll be passing your love for learning on, but are you enjoying it yourself?

To help with homesickness, why not learn something new. You’re in a prime location for learning a new language. No need to be fluent, just pick up some key phrases and swap some with others outside the classroom, too.

8. Use it to reflect on you

As mentioned before, homesickness can hit us very unexpectedly and can be very confusing. You may have never been homesick before, but still feel it on this particular trip.

Rather than feel bad about feeling it, why not reflect on what may be the cause. What is it you’re missing and what will you take away from this experience? You may learn something new about yourself that will help you grow in a way you hadn’t realised was an option before.

“Honest self-reflection opens your mind to reprogramming, change, success and freedom”, Vikas Runwal

9. Be active

It’s not just fueling our mind that we need to stay balanced, but our bodies need the chance to get a change of scene. Getting the heart pumping releases so called feel-good brain chemicals (neurotransmitters, endorphins and endocannabinoids).

There’s a reason we feel satisfied after a run. Give getting some exercise a try, when you’re feeling blue. Running is a quick and easy option, especially running with others in an area you know and are comfortable in, but there’s also joining some sport societies or clubs.

10. Write your future self a letter

If things are getting really out of control, then turn to a writing therapy technique. Write your future self a letter about what it is you want to feel, what you currently are feeling, what you want to get out of this experience and how you plan to achieve.

Sometimes the only person who can understand us are ourselves, so talk to you and put a plan of action in place.

Basically, don’t let homesickness stop you. No matter if you’re generally feeling homesick or the holidays are getting you down, do remember that you’re never alone.

There’s plenty of support out there and very understanding people with you.

You can have a fantastic time teaching abroad even with homesickness. You’re where you are for a very important reason and you’ve got the chance to make the most of it.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to grow, experience new things and see the world while teaching abroad, then take a look at all of our travel products: https://www.i-to-i.com/teaching-internships/

Happy holidays to all our teachers abroad from i-to-i.

First Day Teaching In Thailand: Teacher Becca

Posted on December 9, 2016July 15, 2019 by Jon

Thailand’s Sights, Sounds, and yes…Smells

It is 7:15 AM but the heat outside of our door would suggest high noon. Before our morning shower, we can already hear the sounds of music honouring the recently deceased king of Thailand. Little did we know, that this loudspeaker would become our daily alarm clock.

The background music is the sound of motorbikes, tuk-tuks, and the occasional car or van circling through the courtyard to drop off the 1,300 students who attend Yuchieo Primary School. It’s time to experience the first day of teaching in Thailand.

As my roommate Louise and I walk out of our room ready for the day, we smell strongly of bug spray.

The distinctive smell of diethyltoluamide, fondly known as deet, is just one of many indicators that we are indeed foreigners. The students and 80 odd teachers will soon call us suay, and point out those other indicators with a smile.

Getting to know new students

As we pass the balcony and walk down the stairs, we are greeted by a swarm of tan, blue and forest green. Today is Wednesday, so it is scout uniform day. In other words, it’s just another day where our students are donning delightfully cute uniforms. In addition to the normal wai, we are also greeted with a two-finger scout salute.

Being none the wiser, we bowed to what seemed like every single one of the thousand plus students. To an outsider looking in, it was very clearly a frantic attempt to mumble “sawasdee ka” correctly, while bowing and giving a scout salute to every pair of legs that walked by us.

One of the Thai teachers in the English department took pity on us. She walked over with a bright smile, and in a combination of English and hand gestures, told us to only bow at fellow colleagues and not students. Phew. By this point my ears are buzzing from hearing “good morning teacher” on repeat, the loudspeaker music, and what I would classify as rush hour traffic.

Fast forward past the blur of greetings and a whirlwind of a school tour, and my stomach is grumbling noticeably. Usually this index of heat prevents me from feeling hunger, but the vat of spicy something and pre-scooped bowls of white rice had my name on it. My new name that is…Teacher Becca. Fortunately for me, Rebecca is easily shortened to a more pronounceable Becca.

Unfortunately for my roommate, Teacher Louise is confusing for the children to say, despite the lengths to which your vocal chords may go.

Lunch at school and a break

In the canteen, my ears are buzzing again. This time from the sound of small metal spoons on blue and pink plastic bowls amidst a sea of smiling faces. I will be taking the lead from the students on this one, and filling my bowl to the brim with this deliciously mysterious lunch.

Fast forward twenty minutes later, when, despite the sensation that even my eyeballs are sweating, all I can think of is what else is in store for this afternoon!

A few hours later, we are in our rooms relaxing with what I swear to be the best air conditioner I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. We had spent the afternoon seeing some classes and smiling and nodding to our various welcoming committees.

After cooling down, Louise and I had a chat about some of the highs and lows of the day.

Looking back on the day

It was clear we were going to need to bring a lot of energy to the classrooms to match the enthusiasm of the children. After spending five days of orientation with our English-speaking counterparts, we had seriously underestimated the language barrier. We knew it would be important to take excellent care of our health as the climate, children, and cultural differences demanded it. That being said, we already had a sense that even if we gave 100%, the children would return that tenfold in love.

After dissecting every aspect of our busy day, it was shockingly already time for food again! So, one American and one Brit decided to wander about Kanchanaburi looking for tea…

Teacher Becca Pro Tips

• Drink water. Duh, right? But you can’t underestimate the necessity for your body in this heat!

• Get sleep. Restful sleep. Make sure you have a routine for falling asleep and waking up refreshed. Even though I am so #blessed to have air conditioning, my body was not used to sleeping with only cold air, so I quickly realized that my best overnight option was the fan.

• On the subject of routine: create one at the beginning. Yes, the teaching brings something new and exciting every day. But, you can’t give from an empty cup! Whether it’s recreating (to the best of your ability) your routines from home, or creating a new one in Thailand, go Nike and Just. Do. It.

Until next time,

Teacher Becca

If Teach Becca has inspired you to give teaching in Thailand a try for yourself, then take a look at our Thailand TEFL Experience: https://www.i-to-i.com/teaching-internships/tefl-course-internship-thailand-volunteer.html

More tips from Teacher Becca coming soon!