Teaching English in the Philippines has always been a friendly country for English speakers. The country is one of a few in Asia that produces locals with impressive English speaking and writing skills. For this reason, several non-English-speaking countries hire Filipino teachers online and offline to improve their skills, making it easier for Filipino professionals to follow this type of career path.
Teaching English in the Philippines and international students may be the best if you want a home-based or overseas job that can pay the bills. Here are the hows:
Types of Programs And Certificates
Gaining the right qualifications is essential for teaching English in the Philippines or abroad. Various programs and certifications equip teachers with the necessary skills and credentials to teach English effectively. Though these programs carry a host of acronyms that may seem daunting at first, understanding their nuances can help in selecting the appropriate course.
-
TEFL
(Teaching English as a Foreign Language) is among the most widely recognized qualifications worldwide. It pertains to educating students in countries where English is not the primary language.
This is similar to the EFL (English as a Foreign Language) programs popular in the United States, which focus on teaching non-native speakers in non-English-speaking regions.
-
TESL
(Teaching English as a Second Language), another globally recognized course, caters to environments where English is not the primary communication medium.
Like TESL, ESL (English as a Second Language), prevalent in the UK, emphasizes teaching non-native speakers in predominantly English-speaking countries.
-
TESOL
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is an internationally accepted program incorporating TEFL and TESL elements. It provides a comprehensive approach to teaching non-native English speakers and accommodates diverse teaching environments and student needs.
-
CELTA
CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) specializes in teaching adults English as a foreign or second language. Established to support both instructors and learners— notably adults—it prepares teachers for the unique challenges associated with instructing students who may not have prior exposure to English.
Steps To Becoming A Certified English Teacher
Pursuing a career in teaching English in the Philippines demands thoughtful consideration of one’s goals and alignment with suitable programs. The roadmap to certification and a teaching career in English involves several decisive steps:
-
Determine Your Preferences And Objectives
Begin by contemplating whether you wish to teach from home or if the thought of traveling abroad excites you. Teachers often reconsider their options based on life circumstances or enticing offers from overseas positions. Once your preferences are clearly defined, take the necessary steps, such as setting up reliable technology tools. Secure a fast and stable internet connection and invest in a high-quality laptop, which are indispensable in delivering coherent and engaging lessons.
Earn Your Certificates
To become successful in Teaching English in the Philippines, obtaining a certification from reputable entities in TEFL, EFL, TESL, ESL, TESOL, or CELTA is vital. These certifications are often available through online programs or within educational institutions domestically. While some organizations might not mandate a degree or previous teaching experience to enroll in these programs, possessing some background in teaching or relevant education can be a significant advantage when training for certification.
-
Create A Portfolio / Advertise Online
A comprehensive portfolio is crucial for attracting future employers and students in Teaching English in the Philippines. It should showcase your experience, qualifications, achievements, and enthusiasm for teaching. Prospective employers often value candidates with diverse bilingual or multilingual skills and previous teaching endeavors. Initially seeking teaching roles, even part-time or volunteer positions, can enhance your résumé before venturing toward larger client bases or applying to international teaching vacancies.
Advertise your teaching capabilities online to maximize your visibility. Platforms like Rakuboss.ph can provide access to local and international opportunities, enabling you to connect with potential students and companies. Positioning yourself through various online channels can open doors to multiple clients, enriching your professional experience and expanding your reach.
Teaching English in the Philippines or beyond offers an enriching experience, both professionally and personally, as educators interact with various cultures and learning paradigms. By investing in the right qualifications and adopting a strategic approach to job hunting, teachers can find fulfilling roles that allow personal growth and the delightful experience of contributing to others’ educational journeys. The path to teaching English offers an ever-evolving career landscape that is both challenging and extremely rewarding.
