I have 5 years elementary teaching experience and a masters in education. In addition, I have over 15 years human services administration and 5 years experience in information technology in the private sector. I'm interested in teaching in South or Latin America or Europe. Is TESOL or TEFL essential? What are the REALISTIC chances of finding a position as a teacher of English in any of these areas? Thanks for your help!

Hello, friend. In my estimation, you sound very well qualified to teach English and several other subjects as well. However, from what I've experienced the certificate of TEFL (and similar) holds great weight and is accepted in many countries. Early last summer I signed on to another international teacher website but have had no luck at all. There were only 40 or so jobs listed, and none of the schools responded to my query. i-to- promises job search assistance after class completion. It's the better way to go. Best of luck! Sherry Palomo

I knew teachers in Ecuador with less qualifications or even none, although they were starting to tightn up the rules and other latin american countries are fussier.  Why not just take the course? With you're experience it should be easy!  

Remember most of these rules apply to state run schools- private academies abound and can do what they want.  It looks like you've got enough to get a visa if you want to be legal - I'd say you've got nothing to worry about.

Not many schools there advertise online and getting a response from them can be frustrating.  Internet in Ecuador can be intermittent and virus riddled.  There's absolutely tons of work there though, if you just go and look I'm sure you'd find something quickly as long as you get there at the right time of year - courses usually start in September and January or February.  You could probably find plenty of private students aswell.  

See Bazteach's helpful blog on finding work on arrival for tips.