TEFL Jobs in Poland

TEFL jobs in Poland: FAQs

• Q: Why get a TEFL job in Poland?

  There is a consistently high demand for English language teachers in Poland. Many young people want to learn English for travel, to get the best jobs in Poland and to move and work abroad. From the biggest cities, such as Warsaw and Poland, to small towns which are rarely visited by foreigners and look impossible to pronounce, there are lots of private language schools. If you have the relevant qualifications and the right to work in the country, finding work for a September to June contract should be relatively simple.

  Poland itself has much to offer TEFL teachers. The cities will keep culture vultures occupied with art galleries, museums and monuments, which offer plenty of reflection on Poland’s chequered past. Look beyond the cities and see the rugged coastline, the mountains and national parks. When you’re worn out from all of that fresh air, get your energy back with tasty dishes like schnitzel, stews, sausages, dumplings and pancakes.

• Q: Where to look for a TEFL job in Poland?

  The most popular places to teach English in Poland are Warsaw and Krakow. These are the two biggest cities and are home to lots of private language school. There can be lots of competition for these jobs so look out for job advertisements in smaller towns and cities. The lower cost of living and relatively high salaries will mean that your money goes further in smaller cities.

  Check out our sister company, LoveTEFL – a brand new TEFL jobs board.

• Q: Salary for TEFL jobs in Poland

  Although the salaries might appear low, the cost of living is also low so you can expect to make a little go a long way. The average salary for an English teacher is 650-830 EUR / £600-750 / $755-950 per month, which means, depending on your lifestyle, that you will have a little left over for weekends away exploring the country.

  It is common for teachers in Poland to have multiple income streams, which might include working at a couple of different schools within the city or taking on private students.

• Q: Cost of living in Poland

  Living in Poland can be quite cheap, especially if you move out of the bigger cities and into a smaller town. A lot of language schools will contribute money towards your rent or, in some cases, will pay the whole thing if you share with another teacher. If this isn’t the case, expect to rent a one-bedroomed apartment for about $400-600.

  Eating, drinking and grocery shopping are also fairly inexpensive in comparison to other European cities. A meal at a local restaurant costs around $5 and both beer and coffee cost under $2. You can expect to buy a one-way bus or tram ticket for under a dollar, visit the cinema for $6.50 and get a monthly gym membership for between $20-40.

• Q: Benefits to getting a TEFL job in Poland

  • There’s a great focus on pedagogy in Poland, meaning you can expect excellent continuous professional development, including observations from your Director of Studies, frequent workshops and conferences such as the IATEFL Poland Conference.
  • Depending on the job, you might be able to get free or subsidised rent, which your employer will cover. This means more money in your pocket for seeing what the country has to offer.
  • Polish people are incredibly welcoming and love hosting newcomers. Expect to try lots of Polish delicacies. Win brownie points by learning the language. Some schools offer free Polish lessons – don’t forget to practise on your colleagues!

• Q: Top tips when job hunting in Poland

  • Start looking at the start of summer, as early as May/June.
  • Most contracts will run from September to June. Unless your school runs a summer program, you’ll need to look for work in the summer months.
  • Look out for the jobs which include accommodation and, if it doesn’t say on the job profile, ask at the interview if you’ll get help sorting out your paperwork and other administration, such as setting up a bank account.

• Q: Types of jobs in Poland

  The most popular type of teaching work is working at a private language school. You’ll need at least a TEFL certificate and a Bachelor’s degree, though some schools might request a CELTA/Trinity TESOL. In these positions, expect to work between 20-30 hours a week teaching children, teenagers, adults and/or exam classes. Language schools usually open in the afternoon and stay open until 8 or 9pm.

  Many language schools also offer Business English lessons, which could mean teaching in local businesses in the town or city. These lessons can take place throughout the day and you’ll be teaching groups and individuals.

• Q: What visa do I need for a TEFL job in Poland?

  If you are an EU citizen, you’ll be able to legally teach English in Poland without a work visa.

  If you are not an EU citizen, you may find it difficult to find a school that will sponsor your working visa so that you can work legally in the country. Depending on where you’re from, you might be able to apply for a working holiday visa for Poland which should allow you to teach English legally.