TEFL jobs in Belgium
A complete guide for TEFL teachers on teaching English in Belgium
Overview
Because of its location at the crossroads of Western Europe, Belgium is noted for its multicultural environment, with influences from Dutch, French, and German cultures. The country boasts a rich cultural and gastronomic past, including world-renowned chocolates, beers, and waffles. Belgians are generally sociable, multilingual, and proud of their heritage. Numerous festivals, historic places, and museums may be found throughout the country.
Types of teaching jobs
Language Schools
English language lessons are available to a wide spectrum of pupils at language schools and institutes around Belgium. These schools frequently engage TEFL teachers to teach general English, business English, exam preparation (such as the TOEFL or IELTS), and other services.
International Schools
Belgium offers a number of international schools that teach English to both expatriate and native pupils. TEFL teachers may be employed to teach a variety of courses in English or to instruct English language classes.
University Language Centres
Many Belgian colleges feature language centres where international and local students can take English classes. These professions may necessitate a higher level of education, such as a master’s degree or higher, as well as expertise teaching English to adults.
Private Tutoring
Individual or small group private English tutoring can be a flexible alternative. Many students and professionals want to improve their English skills for academic or professional reasons.
Online Teaching
Through online platforms and video conferencing capabilities, chances to teach English to students in Belgium or around the world have grown as online education has grown.
It is critical to investigate the precise credentials and requirements for each post, as well as the terms of employment, compensation, and perks. Understanding any visa or work permit procedures for non-European Union residents is also critical if you want to work lawfully in Belgium.
Living costs
Belgium is sometimes seen as having a somewhat high cost of living when compared to other European countries. Here are some general costs to consider:
Housing prices, including rent and utilities, can be high, particularly in big cities like as Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent. Apartment rentals are prevalent, and costs vary depending on location. Dining out and groceries might be pricey, despite the fact that there are many options. Fresh produce, meats, and craft goods are readily available. Belgium has an effective public transportation system that connects cities and towns by trains, buses, and trams. While public transit is reasonably priced, having a car may be more costly due to fuel costs, insurance, and parking fees. Healthcare and education are of excellent quality and are substantially financed by the government. Social security contributions can cover healthcare expenditures, and residents and citizens have access to education.
Belgium places a premium on work-life balance, with a normal workweek ranging from 38 to 40 hours. Employees are entitled to extensive yearly leave and public holidays. Personal time is respected in the country, and the café culture and leisure activities contribute to a balanced lifestyle.
To obtain the most up-to-date cost of living figures, we use the world’s biggest cost of living comparison website, Numbio.com.
Key facts
Language: French, German, Flemish
Population: 11.8 Million
Currency: Euro
Capital: Brussels
TEFL job demand: Mid
Our TEFL rating: 3.4
Popular locations for TEFL jobs
Brussels: As the capital of Belgium and a major international hub, there is a high demand for English language training in Brussels. Many multinational organizations, notably the European Union and NATO, have their headquarters in Brussels, necessitating the hiring of English-speaking specialists. There are frequently language schools, international schools, and private tutoring alternatives accessible. Antwerp has a diversified population and a strong economic influence being Belgium’s second-largest city and a major port. This can open up opportunities to teach English to both professionals and students looking to improve their language skills for business and travel. Ghent is a lively university town recognized for its student population and cultural environment. The presence of universities and academic institutions might lead to opportunities in language education and academic English courses.
English teacher salaries in Belgium
TEFL teachers working in language schools or institutions in Uruguay may earn an hourly wage ranging from €15 to €30. This range might vary depending on criteria such as the reputation of the institution, the number of hours taught, and the qualifications of the teacher.
TEFL qualification requirements
180 Hour Level 5 TEFL Diploma
Prerequisite university degree
Many businesses, such as language schools and foreign schools, may require TEFL teachers to hold a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline. The field of study, however, may differ based on the institution.
Term times
School terms in Belgium might range slightly amongst the country’s three regions: Flanders (Dutch-speaking), Wallonia (French-speaking), and the Brussels-Capital Region (bilingual). The academic year is often divided into three terms: autumn term, spring term, and summer term. Here is a broad summary of Belgian school term times: Autumn Semester: Beginning: Around the beginning of September Finishes: Mid-December Spring Semester: Beginnings: Early to mid-January Lasts from late March till early April. Summer Session: Beginnings: mid-April to early May From late June until early July. Please keep in mind that actual dates may fluctuate slightly from year to year and between regions and schools. There are school holidays and breaks in addition to regular school periods, such as: Christmas vacation lasts about two weeks, from late December until early January. Easter vacation lasts about two weeks, from early to mid-April. Summer vacations last from early July to early September. In Belgium, the educational system is governed by Community Education (Flemish Community, French Community, German-speaking Community) and is dependent on the school’s individual linguistic community. Each community has its own set of educational authority and rules.
Teaching programmes
Teaching adults or children in private language schools as well as international schools or as a private tutor.
Age restrictions
None
Previous teaching experience
Desirable for many roles but not essential
Key Points
Award-Winning Online Courses & Diplomas
Accredited TEFL Course 120-Hour Advanced International Standard
Ideal for beginners, an entry-level qualification to teach English online or abroad.
Widely recognised as the international entry-level standard, this is one of the most budget-friendly TEFL courses available online. Ideal for teaching in countries with minimal entry requirements, such as parts of Asia and Latin America.
✨26hrs of Weekly TEFL Mentorship (Online)
✨ 6 Hours Job Coaching Sessions
✨ 6 Months Access + Mobile Learning App
Level 5 TEFL Diploma 180-Hour Comprehensive Ofqual Regulated
CELTA-equivalent, Level 5 TEFL for better global job opportunities.
A government-regulated qualification level equivalent to CELTA/Trinity Cert TESOL. It is ideal for aspiring teachers seeking higher-paying roles and increased international recognition.
✨ 29hrs of Weekly TEFL Mentorship (Online)
✨ 6 Hours Job Coaching Sessions
✨ 6 Months Access + Mobile Learning App
Level 5 TEFL Diploma 300-Hour (Advanced) Ofqual Regulated
Advanced TEFL for higher-paying teaching careers.
The top course is for the highest pay scale and better opportunities. Gain the expertise to teach anywhere in the world and stand out by mastering in-demand specialisms, including teaching English for Exams and online teaching.
✨ 29hrs of Weekly TEFL Mentorship (Online)
✨ 6 Hours Job Coaching Sessions
✨ 6 Months Access + Mobile Learning App
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Got Questions?
Get clear answers about TEFL courses, certification, teaching jobs, and everything in between.
TEFL teachers employed in language schools or institutions in Belgium may earn an hourly wage ranging from €15 to €30 or more. The particular rate depends on elements such as the reputation of the institution, your qualifications, the sort of courses you teach, and the number of hours you work.
Belgium is widely regarded as having a moderate to high cost of living, particularly when compared to other European countries. The cost of living varies depending on your region, lifestyle choices, and personal spending patterns.
Having a degree is often preferred by many employers and institutions when hiring English teachers in Belgium . Having a degree can enhance your job prospects and increase your eligibility for obtaining a work visa.