Teach English in Italy

Overview

Italia viva! What more could you ask for in a TEFL setting than plenty of pizza, pleasant weather, and centuries of culture? So it’s no surprise that teaching English in Italy, and individual English courses are more popular than ever. While most Italians learn English in school, the quality of instruction is often poor; thus, the market for private language schools and freelance teachers is increasing.

If you are dreaming about teaching English in Italy, you’ll need a thick skin and a decent sense of humour. Jobs are plentiful, and if you have the experience and skills, you should have no trouble finding work. It is no surprise that Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, given its rich history, culture, and tradition. One might easily spend a lifetime in Italy, from Florence and Rome’s fantastic art and architecture to the lush landscapes and panoramas of the countryside.

While many tourists visit and holiday in Italy each year, teaching English allows you to immerse yourself in this enticing location in a way that most travellers can only imagine. English teachers are still in high demand in Italy, and living and teaching English in Italy positions are possible.

Types of English Teaching Jobs in Italy  

Private schools 

In Italy, the majority of teaching employment are in private language institutes. Because public schools tend to hire EU citizens and native Italian speakers, private schools are usually the best option. The opportunities can be found in a Montessori school, a private boarding school, or a business school for professionals. The majority of adult ESL students in Italy are eager to learn and take their sessions seriously, as English is becoming a more valuable ability for locals. In Italy, private schools may conduct summer programmes for which you could work once the school year ends.

Private lessons

Many English teachers also teach English in individual sessions to supplement their income. For example, a private lesson might pay a teacher between €15 and €30 per hour (many choose to offer a discount to groups of university students if they refer their friends). Because the work market in Italy is competitive and living costs are high (especially in cities), teaching individual classes on the side might be an excellent way to supplement your income.

Summer camps

Summer camps in Italy, such as EDUCO, offer plenty of opportunities to work over the summer. These are usually short-term positions in educational institutions or companies. There are chances to work with younger children in a complete immersion English setting or teach English to older students wishing to diversify their skill set in the Italian labour market.

When and where to look for jobs

Language schools usually open in September or October and close in June, with an average teaching contract of 9 to 10 months. It’s a good idea to start looking for jobs in February because schools will have a better understanding of who will return the following year. However, many jobs become available closer to the start of the school year, and there are always emergency opportunities all year. Going door to door and applying in person to teach English is an excellent option if you’re in Italy.

If you want to work at a summer camp, start looking for jobs a few months ahead of time. Summer camps often begin in July or August.

Qualifications needed

In order to teach English in Italy, you must have a TESOL/TEFL certificate. A bachelor’s degree is also beneficial; however, it is not required. While schools in Italy will usually accept credentials earned online or in person, an on-site TESOL course in Italy, such as LanguageCorps, may provide you with the best opportunity of establishing yourself locally and obtaining an acceptable job quickly.

Work visas and sponsorship

Non-EU citizens have a difficult time obtaining a work visa in Italy. If you’re a citizen of the European Union, you’ll have a lot easier time getting a work visa to teach English in Italy. On the other hand, many colleges are willing to work with international students and offer accommodation. You are responsible for navigating the visa procedure and ensuring that you are working legally in the nation once you have been employed. Obtaining a work visa while in the country is frequently impossible. While outside of Italy’s boundaries, you must apply and be approved.

Some people elect to work on a cash-in-hand basis after overstaying their tourist visas. When you decide to leave Italy, though, you run the possibility of being deported and penalised. Others get a student visa, which permits them to legally stay in Italy for six months while teaching and taking a few lessons. Don’t let this stop you from teaching and living in Italy; most people are able to work around the visa issue and remain in the country.

Culture and living

While teaching English in Italy is unlikely to make you wealthy, most tourists consider living in Italy for an extended period of time to be sufficient compensation. Italians know how to enjoy life like no other culture, from five-course meals at some of the world’s best restaurants to a quick espresso in between classes.

In private language schools, ordinary business casual clothes are a safe bet for the classroom, and Italian language competence is often not necessary for the teacher.

In Italy, the majority of ESL teachers share residences with other teachers, residents, and/or students from other schools. In Italy, a bedroom costs around €300-600 per month, with larger cities having higher living costs than rural locations.