10 Strange School Rules In North Korea

The vast majority of teachers who work in South Korea are employed by either a government run public school or a private language school known as a hagwon. Both types of employer offer good salaries and other benefits but there are a few differences that might sway your decision either way. Most public and private school positions are filled in advance, meaning you will apply and interview for the job before you leave your home country. The hiring process for public schools generally follows a set timetable that includes two regular start dates. Online applications begin in April for start dates in August/September, and in October for start dates in February/March. A large number of teachers in public schools are hired through government recruitment programs such as EPIK (English...  [Read more]

  John is currently teaching in Seoul, South Korea in a local school and at his home. John completed the TESOL course with ITTT. In this TESOL review video, John tells us what he gained from taking the course. The knowledge he gained from the course has already helped to improve his lessons and he is getting positive feedback from his students. John runs all of his own classes and is responsible for creating and choosing the materials for his classes as well as planning the lessons. Having completed this TESOL course, John is now considering taking further courses including a TESOL diploma and possibly a master’s in TESOL. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken...  [Read more]

  Chelci completed her course with ITTT and is now teaching at a school in South Korea. In this TESOL review video she shows us how the school day ends as students finish studying for the day. Completing a TEFL TESOL course with ITTT enables you to work all over the world as an English teacher and is a great way to experience new countries and cultures. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. To be honest while studying English at school I didn't...  [Read more]

TaLK stands for Teach and Learn in Korea which is a government sponsored program that places foreign nationals into elementary schools across South Korea. TaLK is a similar program to the much larger EPIK; however, the TaLK Program differs by focusing on placements in underprivileged areas that might otherwise struggle to attract foreign teachers. Participants on the program will gain valuable teaching experience throughout their time in South Korea. There is also plenty of free time for exploring the local culture and for travel across the country and wider region. The TaLK Program is open to college graduates or current undergraduate students who have completed at least two years of a degree course. You must also hold a passport from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada,...  [Read more]

EPIK stands for the English Program in Korea, a scheme run by the South Korean government that places foreign teachers into schools across the country to work as English language instructors. EPIK is one of the largest and most popular schemes of its kind as it offers a competitive salary, a good range of extra benefits, and the chance to experience living and working in a unique cultural environment. If you meet the specified criteria then you could be one of the thousand plus teachers heading to South Korea this year to join the program. If you are interested in the EPIK program, we recommend reaching out to our TEFL recruitment partner Reach To Teach. Reach To Teach is an official partner of the EPIK program (English Program in Korea) and works with the Korean Ministry of Education...  [Read more]

The topic of teacher accents in the ESL classroom is much debated. I am sure most teachers can relate to a story or experience. In South Korea, like many Asian countries there is a strong focus on the 'American English'. All listening tapes, dialogues, transcripts and texts use American linguistics and accents. Even the international TOEIC and TEFL tests for a long time were using American accents. As a New Zealand citizen being strongly advised to develop an American accent can be hard to comprehend.Kachru 1986 writes 'what actually happens is that language and power go together. American English is accepted for the power and superiority which America as a nation has acquired in the areas of science, technology, commerce, military affairs and politics'. I tend to agree and...  [Read more]

After spending the last year in Korea I feel sharing my experiences there will be of great assistance to any ESL teachers who are considering or have accepted a position in the country. Firstly, I would like to outline the basic conditions of employment in the country The average salary is around 2,000,000 Won per month, which is equal to around $2,200, this amount is fairly standard whether working at a government school, university or the most common place of employment the all prevalent language school or ?Hagwon? in Korean. Furthermore, your employer will provide free accommodation, round trip air fare and will make a contribution to both the government run health insurance program and pension fund. Additionally upon completion of your contract you will receive...  [Read more]

Are you an English teacher looking to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture while making a real impact on the lives of students? Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) in Korea could be the perfect opportunity for you. With its unique blend of traditional heritage and modern innovation, Korea offers a dynamic and rewarding experience for educators from around the world. In this guide, we'll explore some of the most popular destinations in Korea for English teachers, providing valuable insights and tips to help you make the most of your teaching adventure. As the bustling capital of South Korea, Seoul is a top choice for English teachers seeking a dynamic and fast-paced environment. With a population of over 10 million people, Seoul is a vibrant metropolis that offers a diverse range...  [Read more]

After spending the last year in Korea I feel sharing my experiences there will be of great assistance to any ESL teachers who are considering or have accepted a position in the country. Firstly, I would like to outline the basic conditions of employment in the country The average salary is around 2,000,000 Won per month, which is equal to around $2,200, this amount is fairly standard whether working at a government school, university or the most common place of employment the all prevalent language school or “Hagwon” in Korean. Furthermore, your employer will provide free accommodation, round trip air fare and will make a contribution to both the government run health insurance program and pension fund.Additionally upon completion of your contract you will receive...  [Read more]

In Korea, English is big business. As the English language is (perhaps) the closest thing to a universal language that is present in the world today, South Korea places a large amount of importance on a student´s ability to effectively communicate to native English speakers. English is part of their curriculum from at least middle school on (in public schools) and many students have access to English education from three years old and up, whether through home schooling or formal English academies.As such, learning English is a large facet of success later in life. Business is extremely big in Korea, and to be a good businessman, you must speak English. Testing well on the state English tests also helps considerably in getting into a good university.The spoken Korean...  [Read more]

English is taught as a second language all over the globe. Due to the volume of qualified teachers needed there are many great opportunities with attractive salaries just waiting to be filled in countries worldwide. TEFL teachers are usually required to have teaching qualifications and are therefore considered to be skilled workers in most areas. As a skilled foreign worker, the base salary enjoyed by a full-time ESL teacher is usually considerably higher than the country’s median wage. Experienced teachers and those with advanced-level teaching qualifications can often further enhance their claims for a higher salary. Factoring in lifestyle and living costs, countries in Southeast Asia continue to be extremely popular with our TEFL course graduates. An average teaching salary in this...  [Read more]

With a population of around 11 million people, Seoul is a thriving, modern capital and is one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Located on both sides of the Han River, Seoul has a fascinating and long history which can be witnessed in the ancient neighborhoods that are nestled amongst the gleaming towers of the city’s current skyline. Despite offering a low cost of living compared to other major cities around the world, Seoul is a thoroughly modern destination with excellent infrastructure. Seoul remains a popular destination for TEFL teachers as it enables them to have a high standard of living no matter which part of the city they choose to live in. Seoul is a cosmopolitan destination with over 700,000 foreigners calling the city home. Multi-national areas such as Itaewon and...  [Read more]

If you are considering teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in Korea, it is essential to understand the qualifications required for this rewarding opportunity. Teaching English in Korea is a popular choice for many individuals seeking an enriching cultural experience while making a positive impact on the lives of others. To ensure a successful application process and placement in a reputable school or institution, it is crucial to meet specific criteria and possess the necessary qualifications. This article will outline the key requirements and qualifications for ESL teaching in Korea, providing valuable insights for aspiring educators looking to embark on this exciting journey. 1. Bachelor's Degree and TEFL Certification 2. Criminal Background Check and Health Screening 3. Native...  [Read more]

South Korea is a small but incredibly beautiful country, and during the 4 week TEFL you will have fantastic opportunities to experience the rich culture and history. Not only will you have the chance for local excursions, but based in Incheon, you will be less than an hour away from the lively city of Seoul on the express train. The first week of your program includes in-depth cultural orientations, ensuring you deeply understand the Korean way of life and culture. This includes a welcome dinner, tour of the local neighbourhood and the “Grand” Palace (Gyeongbok Palace), taekwondo class and learning South Korean cookery and language. Incheon is home to Korea’s only official Chinatown, where you can try jajangmyun (noodles with black bean sauce) at the Gongwachun restaurant and for...  [Read more]

1. Qualifications for Teaching English in Korea 2. TEFL/TESOL Certification 3. Bachelor's Degree Requirement 4. Criminal Background Check Are you considering a career in teaching English as a second language (ESL) in Korea? If so, it's essential to understand the prerequisites for becoming an ESL teacher in this country. Korea offers a unique and rewarding experience for ESL teachers, but there are specific requirements that you must meet to qualify for teaching positions. In this guide, we will outline the key prerequisites for teaching English in Korea, including qualifications, certifications, visa requirements, and more. One of the primary prerequisites for becoming an ESL teacher in Korea is having the necessary qualifications. While requirements may vary depending on the institution...  [Read more]

If you want to have a job in place and all the paperwork sorted out before you leave your home country, a TEFL placement program is certainly worth considering. Several countries across Europe and Asia have government run schemes that recruit foreign teachers to work in their public school system. The following options are long established and respected programs that offer a great opportunity to live and work in some of the most popular teaching destinations. The TAPIF Program, short for Teaching Assistant Program in France, is a government initiative that places applicants into French state schools to work as teaching assistants. The program provides a great opportunity to live and work in a country where long-stay visas can be difficult to secure for non-EU citizens. For those who...  [Read more]

1. Introduction 2. Importance of English Education in South Korea 3. English Curriculum in South Korean Schools 4. Challenges and Opportunities in English Education South Korea has gained international recognition for its high-quality education system, particularly in the field of English language education. The country places a strong emphasis on learning English as a second language, with the belief that proficiency in English is essential for success in the globalized world. This commitment to English education has led to the development of a comprehensive curriculum and a range of opportunities for students to improve their language skills. English education is considered a top priority in South Korea, starting from a young age. Students begin learning English as early as elementary...  [Read more]

Teaching English in South Korea can be a rewarding and enriching experience for educators looking to immerse themselves in a new culture while making a positive impact on students' lives. This vibrant country offers a unique blend of traditional customs and modern innovations, creating a dynamic environment for teachers to thrive. From bustling cities to serene countryside, South Korea provides a diverse range of teaching opportunities for those seeking adventure and professional growth. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various aspects of teaching English in South Korea, including the job market, requirements, benefits, and cultural insights. Whether you are a seasoned educator or a fresh graduate looking to kickstart your teaching career abroad, this guide will provide...  [Read more]

It is important to appreciate that higher salaries are made available to attract the best teaching candidates. What each country considers best does depend on the country, but there are some common factors regarding qualifications and experience when it comes to securing the top paying jobs. In general you need to be a native English speaker, have a degree, usually in education or a related field, and a minimum of a TEFL certificate (though often higher, such as a Diploma in TESOL). You will often see that a minimum of two years teaching experience is also needed. If you have all the above, you have a good chance of gaining employment in the first five of our top ten below. With some of them, you may be able to gain employment in the other five. Figures taken from a range of teaching...  [Read more]

Although teaching jobs can be arranged in Asia once you arrive in your destination of choice, in many countries it is common for jobs to be arranged in advance from within your own country. One area where this is certainly true is if you join a government run placement program. The following are the most popular programs of their kind in Asia. EPIK stands for the English Program in Korea, a scheme run by the South Korean government that places foreign teachers into schools across the country to work as English language instructors. EPIK is one of the largest and most popular schemes of its kind as it offers a competitive salary, a good range of extra benefits, and the chance to experience living and working in a unique cultural environment. If you meet the specified criteria then you...  [Read more]

When people dream of teaching English in Europe, most do not immediately think about Romania as an option. However, they should as it has great potential for qualified teachers as it is one of the fastest growing nations in terms of people learning English as a second language. Although you will most likely be working in a city, as that is where the majority of jobs are located, you will still have plenty of free time to explore the country’s idyllic countryside. The historical region of Transylvania is probably Romania’s most famous attraction, where you will find the ancient castles that inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Salaries for English language teachers in Romania are not high in comparison to some other European countries and they vary depending on the type of employer and...  [Read more]

1. Fulfilling Career Path Teaching English to Korean Students 2. Benefits of Teaching English to Korean Students 3. Requirements for Teaching English in Korea 4. How ITTT Can Help You Start Your Teaching Career in Korea Are you looking for a fulfilling career path that involves teaching English to Korean students? Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) in Korea can be an incredibly rewarding experience that not only allows you to make a difference in the lives of your students but also provides you with the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture and language. As a teacher in Korea, you will have the chance to explore a beautiful country, meet new people, and develop professionally in a supportive and dynamic educational environment. Teaching English to Korean students...  [Read more]

Students of English as a foreign language can possibly face a multitude of problems, many of which will be of the same nature for all nationalities. However, different countries will each throw up their own set of specific problems for learners. Having taught all ages/ class sizes and for all purposes in Korea, I have noticed and begun the process of resolving at least, several country specific problems. In Korea, as indeed with many Asian countries, the primary problem arises with beginner learners, of a different alphabet. Learning English must begin first with letter recognition which is entirely different from that of their own language. Although many sounds are similar, the English alphabet does introduce a number of letters unheard of in the Korean alphabet. As will be...  [Read more]

The tefl international course on the Mediterranean coast of southern spain is in the famous city of Malaga, capital of the Costa del Sol in Southern spain, where the sun shines 300+ days a year. Malaga is also renowned for its culture, preparing to be elected as the european City of Culture by 2016. Malaga is exceptional. Art, nature, culture, beaches, fiestas/festivals, real Spanish traditions, enchanting neighbouring towns and villages and an abundance of sunshine; these are just a few of the reasons why you should choose Malaga as the city to earn your TEFL International Certificate. You’ll enjoy a Spanish cultural environment; real, motivated people wanting to learn English from you, and a flagship course proven to produce TEFL Teachers that can really teach. Malaga is a strong...  [Read more]

Given the linguistic dissimilarities between the English and Korean languages, there are inevitably a multitude of pitfalls awaiting the Korean-speaker who seeks to learn English. With nearly eight years of experience teaching in South Korean language centers, locally known as hagwon, I have personally witnessed difficulties involved in nearly all aspects English education, ranging from faulty teaching methods to fundamental difficulties with grammar and phonology. In order to evaluate these problems, some basic features should first be explained. Korean, like Japanese, is officially considered by most linguists to be a language of unknown origin. It does, however, share many common features with Ural-Altaic languages, such as Mongolian and Turkish. As such,...  [Read more]

Teaching English in South Korea has become increasingly popular over the last decade and it is no secret that the country offers some of the best salaries for foreign teachers to be found anywhere in the world. English teachers in Korea can expect to earn between $1,500 and $3,000 US per month and it is certainly possible to save up to half of this depending on your lifestyle. On top of the basic salary you can also expect other benefits such as paid airfares, free housing and an end of contract bonus. Unsurprisingly, the high salaries and good benefits on offer have led to a high level of competition for the best jobs. If you have any teaching qualifications and experience in the classroom, you will find you have the pick of the available jobs. However, thanks to a continually high...  [Read more]

Exploring the Impact of Government Initiatives on English Education in South Korea The Korean government has been proactive in implementing initiatives to enhance English education in the country. These efforts have been driven by the recognition of the importance of English proficiency in the globalized world. This article delves into the various government-led programs and policies aimed at improving English education in South Korea and examines their impact on students, teachers, and the education system as a whole. Government Initiatives for English Education in South Korea The South Korean government has introduced several initiatives to promote English proficiency among its citizens. One of the key programs is the English Program in Korea (EPIK), which recruits native English...  [Read more]

Are you bored with your current occupation? How would you like to see the world, experience different cultures, and get paid for it? From Spain to Sunny San Diego the EFL market is an occupationally diverse and exciting place to begin or continue your EFL career. Opportunities are ever growing and demand for qualified EFL teachers is steadily rising. The bulk of the positions are usually within the classroom; with a small variety of positions in other sectors such as: recruiting, EFL materials writing, volunteer positions, online teaching positions to even owning and operating your very own EFL School. Employers can also vary from small private schools to large companies like Toyota. One of the highest paying regions is and continues to be North East Asia in...  [Read more]

A some what strange topic to talk about considering I have only taught four lessons but I think that my experiences may be of some use to someone. If you were to type something like ?build your self confidence? or ?public speaking, confidence? the plethora of hits that google returns may bring some relief that you are by far, not the only person who suffers from this, sometimes debilitating condition, the BBC even has an online course to help you build confidence. Part of this essay is to help new teachers build confidence, so the fact that you are by no means alone, it is those naturally charismatic and confident people who are the rarity should offer some solace.So how do they do it? My view is that they are by no means novices, they have toiled and made the...  [Read more]

If you have a passion for teaching and a desire to explore new cultures, a teaching position in Korea could be the perfect opportunity for you. With its rich history, vibrant cities, and beautiful landscapes, Korea offers a unique experience for English teachers looking to broaden their horizons. Teaching English in Korea not only allows you to make a difference in the lives of your students but also provides you with the chance to immerse yourself in a new and exciting culture. Korea has become a popular destination for English teachers from around the world, and for good reason. The demand for English teachers is high, which means there are plenty of opportunities available for qualified individuals. Whether you are a recent graduate looking to gain some teaching experience or a seasoned...  [Read more]