TEFL jobs in Denmark
A complete guide for TEFL teachers on teaching English in Denmark
Overview
Teaching English in Denmark presents unique challenges compared to other European destinations. Denmark consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world, boasting a high standard of living, a strong sense of community, and a famously sleek Scandinavian lifestyle. From cosy evenings filled with hygge during the long winters to a love of cycling that keeps daily life affordable and healthy, Denmark offers much to admire.
However, finding a teaching job is notoriously difficult. The Danish population already has one of the highest levels of English proficiency in the world, so demand for foreign English teachers is very limited. Most schools prefer to hire Danish teachers who are already bilingual, which means opportunities for non-Danish speakers are rare. Jobs that do arise typically offer good salaries and stable working conditions, but turnover is very low as teachers tend to stay once they secure a position.
Despite these challenges, there are still options for dedicated TEFL teachers, particularly in evening classes offered by non-profit organisations, international schools, and private language centres. Those with advanced qualifications, business English expertise, or prior teaching experience stand the best chance of finding rewarding roles.
Types of teaching jobs
Public Schools
Denmark’s public school system is highly regulated, and foreign teachers must apply for recognition of their qualifications through the Danish Agency for Higher Education. Depending on your background, additional training may be required. These roles are scarce, highly competitive, and typically require strong Danish language skills.
Private Language Schools
Some private academies and language schools employ foreign teachers, often focusing on specialised areas such as advanced English or business English. These roles are more common in Denmark’s larger cities, including Copenhagen, Fredericia, Glostrup, and Hellerup. Business English remains in high demand, and prior corporate experience can make candidates more attractive.
International Schools
There are more than 20 international schools across Denmark, catering to the children of expatriates. These schools frequently hire English-speaking teachers, but competition is high, and standards are rigorous. A master’s degree in education, strong teaching credentials, and significant experience are often required. Pay tends to be higher than in private academies, reflecting the qualifications demanded.
Volunteer and Part-Time Roles
For teachers determined to gain experience, evening or community classes run by non-profit organisations may provide opportunities. These are often part-time and may pay modestly, but they offer a way to build experience in Denmark.
Living costs
Denmark is one of the most expensive locations to live in Western Europe, and it is in the top ten percent of the world’s most expensive cities. However, wages are high, as they are in most expensive nations, so these factors can balance out if you’re diligent with your money. Keep in mind that a high tax rate indicates that you are getting outstanding public services for your money, but the cost of living while teaching English in Denmark can be quite high.
Denmark’s population are among the world’s happiest people, so it’s no wonder that they have a high quality of life. The dark, cold winters can be depressing, but locals cope by practising hygge–a way of life rather than an activity in which you seek cosiness, wellbeing, and contentment through simple pleasures such as reading a good book by a fireside glow, sharing hot chocolate and sweet treats with friends, and reconnecting with nature. Many people who teach English in Denmark say that this is a lovely way to deal with the darker months and a practice they continue once they return to their home country. There is something to be said for trying to find the joy in enjoying things that may not entirely be what you hoped, like reading on a cold, wet day. It is considered better than wallowing or getting upset, and this is bad for mental health. This practice can extend to all areas of life, and you will even find evidence of hygge in classrooms when you teach English in Denmark.
Smrrebrd (buttered bread or sandwich) may sound bland at first, but you’ll grow to adore Danish open-topped sandwiches topped with delectable local favourites like pickled herring, raw beef and eggs, fried fish, or potatoes. You might expect to consume a lot of Danish pastries, but Vienna Bread – wienerbrd – is the Danish name for them. Dense rye bread is a favourite, and porridge is a favourite way to warm up on cold winter mornings in Denmark. Denmark isn’t just about savoury foods; they also enjoy sweets, particularly liquorice, which comes in a range of textures and flavours.
Bicycling, seeing castles, going to the beach in the summer, visiting local museums, and more castles will occupy your free time when you aren’t busy teaching English in Denmark. It is a beautiful place to live and well known for the flatter landscapes that make cycling easy for everyone, so do find time to get out and explore the local area when you aren’t teaching English in Denmark.
The full cost of living in Denmark compared to your home country can be found on Numbeo.com, the world’s largest cost of living calculator.
Key facts
Language: Danish
Population: 6 Million
Currency: Danish Krone (DKK)
Capital: Copenhagen
TEFL job demand: High
Our TEFL rating: 4
Popular locations for TEFL jobs
Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, Fredericia, Glostrup, Hellerup and Odense
The average salary for EFL teachers
Wages for teachers are set by law. The minimum, which most teachers start on, is DKK170 (€23) per hour, rising to DKK220 (€30) per hour. The basic annual salary for full-time positions is likely to be in the region of DKK296,000 to DKK400,000 (€40,000–€55,000).
TEFL qualification requirements
A minimum of 120-hour TEFL qualification will be required.
Prerequisite university degree
A degree is usually required; some jobs might specify certain subjects to study, such as a degree in education.
Term times
The Danish school year begins in September and runs through to June, with breaks at Christmas and Easter.
Teaching programmes
Language Schools, International Schools, Voluntary Teaching, Business English, Advanced English.
Age restrictions
None.
Previous teaching experience
Usually required, particularly for teaching Business English.
Key Points
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Got Questions?
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Wages for English teachers in Denmark are set by law. The minimum, which most teachers start on, is DKK170 (€25) per hour, rising to DKK220 (€32) per hour. However, you will find that if you live like a local and avoid expensive international products, your money will be enough to live a comfortable life as an English teacher in Denmark.
Popular locations for TEFL jobs in Denmark include Copenhagen, Aarhus, Aalborg, Fredericia, Glostrup, Hellerup and Odens. The best thing is to research each one and see where you would be the happiest living as an English teacher in Denmark.
Denmark is one of the most expensive locations to live in Western Europe, and it is in the top ten percent of the world’s most expensive cities. Wages are high, as they are in most expensive nations, so these factors can balance out if you’re diligent with your money. Keep in mind that a high tax rate indicates that you are getting outstanding public services for your money. Many people feel that living in Denmark is reason enough to make sure they can stretch their money and teach English in Denmark.