Teach English in the Netherlands

Details

Summary

In many schools learning English is compulsory and it is also often a business requirement, but the demand is often met by English expats and bilingual in-country teachers.

Main TEFL regions

Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague

Types of teaching

Bilingual State Schools: General English Private Language Schools: Business English, General English Universities: English for Academic Purposes (EAP) University 'Colleges': English for Specific Purposes (ESP) In-Company English Programs: Business English, General English

Accommodation

It’s not likely that employers will provide accommodation, but they will often help you find a place. Housing can be expensive depending on where you’re living; a small apartment of your own in Amsterdam city centre will be around will €1000 a month, but living in more rural areas can be less than €900. Sharing is worth considering as it’s a much cheaper option.

Flight reimbursement

Not common

Salary

EUR20-EUR35 per hour Pay is commensurate with your qualifications and experience.

Taxes

Approximately 30-40% of your salary will be paid as income tax.

Cost of living

The overall cost of living is moderate to high. It has increased since the introduction of the Euro but is on the same level as most Western European countries. Though it’s not incredibly high, it’s not a country to head to if you really want to save some cash. Meals in local restaurants are around €12, while fresh produce from the local markets is cheap and tasty.

Potential to save money

Though the cost of living isn’t excessively high, it’s not very low either. Providing you can get enough work your pay will probably just about be enough to cover living expenses and accommodation. Good job you’re going for the culture!

How much TEFL training is recommended?

Generally a degree and a good TEFL or TESOL qualification is a must. Your degree does not need to be TEFL specific but the better qualified you are, the more chance you’ll have. A good-quality TEFL qualification such as those offered by i-to-i will give you a good chance of securing and keeping a job. It’s also worth looking at business teaching courses, as English is in high demand in the commercial world. Being able to speak Dutch will also definitely be a bonus.

Common teaching conditions

In such a competitive market you may need to teach at multiple schools to make up enough hours. This may mean a bit of running around but it will give you a varied array of teaching skills, plus you’ll be very handy at improvisation! If you’re a native English speaker you may also be able to teach English on a freelance basis; either going into schools or teaching pupils privately. Full time contracts are not commonly available but your chances increase according to your level of qualification.

Be aware…

A scam is now in use in Amsterdam, where a "plain clothes police officer" shows you a fake ID badge, asking you to show him your credit cards. But before he hands back your credit cards, he secretly takes one or two.