Teaching English in Ecuador
Ecuador is probably best known for its geography, not simply because of its diverse terrain and beautiful scenery, but because the equator runs right through it. Here you can actually step from one side to the other and test the age old theory that the water runs "the other way" there. The Galapagos Islands, hailed as an ecological treasure, also belong to Ecuador and lie just off the west coast in the Pacific Ocean.
Ecuador is the ideal destination for TEFL teachers who want to live life to the full. Salaries are low but living costs are lower, so though you'll struggle to save money, you will certainly be able to have a good time and live comfortably on what you earn. Demand for TEFL teachers is high here, with most teaching positions found in Quito. Business people and university students make up the majority of students but some schools also offer teachers the opportunity to teach younger learners.
A Few Details...
By using the free job placement service for Ecuador included in the 100-hour TEFL course, you will earn around $600 a month based on eight hour days, five days a week in the city or two full weeks teaching followed by two full weeks off in Oriente.
For most teachers accommodation is provided for the first week and you will then be given help finding appropriate accommodation. However, if you are working in Oriente you will be provided with accommodation and food throughout.
What can you expect in Ecuador?
- Salary: Approximately $600 based on 8 hours per day, 5 days per week in a city, or 2 weeks working followed by 2 weeks off in the Oriente.
- Accommodation: During your first week, accommodation will be provided for you in a hostel. For those working in a city school, the school will then assist you in finding an apartment for the remainder of your stay. For those working in the Oriente, accommodation and food will be provided as well as a transfer to the oil company camp.
- Arrival: You will be met at the Airport and taken to your accommodation. The next day you will have an orientation to Ecuador and then you will be taken to the centre for training. The practical training lasts for 2 weeks.
- Locations: The majority of schools are in Quito and at oil company camps in the Oriente (jungle). However there are also schools in other cities such as Cuenca, Ambato, Manta, Loja and Cayambe.
- Contract lengths: 1 year. Actual placement locations will not be confirmed until 2-3 months before departure.
- Departure dates: July or early August
Requirements for Ecuador
- Native English speaker with British, Irish, American, Canadian, Australian or New Zealand nationality.
- TEFL qualification (100-hour TEFL course included).
- University degree
- Aged 25+ (mature 23 / 24 year olds may be considered for the positions in Quito)
- Some knowledge of Spanish - give details on your CV
Frequently asked questions about teaching in Ecuador
1. What age and level of students will I be teaching?
Students range in age from 14 year olds upwards (all adults in the Oriente), at a range of levels from beginner to advanced.
2. How many students will there be in each class?
Most classes will have 6 – 10 students in them. However, the social club classes (e.g. movie nights, cocktail classes etc.) have no size limit.
3. How long are the classes?
Classes are generally 1 hour long except for the social classes which will depend on the activity.
4. Are there any teaching resources?
Yes, teaching resources are provided. Teachers will receive a binder with activities and books for workshops.
5. Will I be teaching alone or team teaching?
Teachers will generally teach alone, although in the social clubs teachers may work together.
6. What kind of school will I be teaching in?
A private language school.
Frequently asked questions about employment in Ecuador
1. How much will I be paid?
Approximately $600 based on 8 hours per day, 5 days per week in city schools, or 2 weeks working followed by 2 weeks off in the Oriente.
Accommodation costs vary depending on where and what style of apartment you choose to rent. A usual cost would be around US$120 – 150 per month.
Accommodation and meals are provided as part of your contract at the oil camps in the Oriente. After accommodation you can expect the cost of living to come to approximately $450 per month, although this is only a guideline and will depend on your lifestyle. As an example, a basic lunch in a local restaurant might cost US$1.50-2 while lunch in a more expensive place (e.g. Friday’s) may cost around US$10. The fare for a bus/trolleybus in Quito is 25cents. A beer costs around 65cents per bottle, or around US$1.20 in a pub.
2. Do I receive a bonus or flight re-imbursement?
Your return flight will be reimbursed if you complete your 1 year contract.
3. How many holiday days will I receive per year?
Holidays will be in line with school closing dates for national holidays (and those working on the oil camps have 2 weeks off for every 2 weeks worked).
4. What are my working hours?
In city schools the working hours are 8 hours per day, Monday to Friday.
In the Oriente you will work 2 weeks, followed by 2 weeks off. Your working hours during your working weeks could be any time from the morning to the evening, depending on the schedule of the workers.
5. Can I renew my contract?
Your contract may be extendable; you would need to discuss this with your school.
6. What happens if I need to break my contract?
If you do not complete your full 1 year contract you will lose your flight reimbursement and your working visa will be cancelled as will your health care.
100 Hour TEFL course
Our most comprehensive TEFL course not only gives you in-depth theory and practical training, but also specialist courses for every teaching situation. Increasing the number of hours of study will also give you more confidence, make your CV more attractive and maximize your earning potential.
- Internationally Accredited Certificate
- 20 hour Weekend TEFL Course
- 20 hour Specialist Certificate in Grammar
- 40 hour Online Course
- Video & audio tutorials
- Personal 1 to 1 tutor support
- Lifetime Access to Teaching Helpdesk
- 20 hours in 4 Specialist Certificates
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