Do I need to speak a second language to TEFL?

We often get asked if you need to speak a second language to TEFL. The answer is a resounding NO!

Whether you’re introducing pre-school kids to their first English words or preparing advanced learners for international exams, the principles are the same. TEFL is all about fully immersing your students in English – and your TEFL course will train you how to teach English without speaking a single word of another language. In fact, not being able to speak the local language can actually help, as you won’t be tempted to use it as a shortcut!

Don’t worry about TEFL job applications either. Even in non-English speaking countries, TEFL employers expect CVs / TEFL job applications to be in English and almost always will conduct interviews in English rather than the local language.

It’s not even totally necessary to speak the local language to live, shop, travel and socialise in another country. Although you’ll get more out of your TEFL experience if you learn at bit – even if it’s only how to say: “Hello”, “Thank you” and “Please can I have a beer?”

So, no, you definitely do not need to speak a second language to TEFL. But, hey, why not give it a go?