Teaching English in South Korea (Government Schools)
South Korea is often overlooked by travellers, and this absence of western influence has preserved much of the culture and tradition of its past. There are few countries that offer such a rich and unique experience and this makes it the perfect destination for TEFL teachers. South Korea's high salaries are ideal for travellers who need to save a little money for future travels.
South Korea values its visitors and the environment so not only is it a clean and safe place to visit but its citizens are considered to be some of the friendliest and most hospitable people in the world.
A Few Details...
By using the free job placement service for South Korea included in the 100-hour TEFL course, your salary for teaching at government schools in South Korea will be up to $1900 per month based on 22 hours of teaching and 18 office hours. The package also includes a flight reimbursement of up to £650 / €950 / USD$1250 / CAD$1450 / AUD$1580 / NZ$1800 and free accommodation for the duration of your stay.
What can you expect in South Korea (Government Schools)?
- Salary: Up to 1,800,000 Won, approximately $1900 per month based on a 40 hour week (22 hours teaching, 18 office hours). Pay could be up to 50% higher than this dependent on your experience and the school you work at.
- Accommodation: During your week of training you will stay in dorm-style accommodation. During your time teaching you will stay in free, fully furnished Western style accommodation.
- Arrival: You will be met at Seoul (Incheon) or Busan Airport (depending on which is nearest to your placement) and taken to your accommodation. The next day, you will be taken to the central training centre to start a week of training and orientation.
- Flight reimbursement: £650 / €950 / USD$1250 / CAD$1450 / AUD$1580 / NZ$1800
- Locations: Schools are located in Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Ulsan, Gyeongsangnamdo Province, Gangwondo Province and Gyeonggi Province
- Contract length: 1 year.
- Departure dates: February and August.
Requirements in South Korea (Government Schools)
- Native English speaker - Must be a holder of a native English passport eg. UK, Irish, Australian, New Zealand, USA, Canadian.
- TEFL qualification (100-hr TEFL Course included).
- University degree holder.
Despite its friendly and open people, South Korea is an essentially conservative country. As with all of South East Asia, appearance is very importance. When submitting your passport photo as part of the application, please bear this in mind. Prominent tattoos, facial piercings and bright pink hair, probably wouldn't be a good idea!
Frequently asked questions about teaching in South Korea (Government Schools)
1. What age and level of students will I be teaching?
You will be teaching Elementary to High school students (aged 7 - 16 depending on the school) at a range of levels, from beginner to advanced.
2. How many students will there be in each class?
The class size can range from 5-50 students - the average size is 35.
3. How long are the classes?
Classes are usually 1 hour long.
4. Are there any teaching resources?
Yes, resources are available.
5. Will I be teaching alone or team teaching?
You will be co-teaching with a Korean teacher.
6. What kind of school will I be teaching in?
You will be teaching in government schools with an English program managed by a Western company, following the IELTS program.
Frequently asked questions about employment in South Korea (Government Schools)
1. How much will I be paid?
Up to 1,800,000 Won, approximately $1900 per month based on a 40 hour week (22 hours teaching, 18 office hours). .
Utilities and phone bill are generally less than 200,000 Won/month dependent upon lifestyle and location. This estimate includes internet, cell phone, heat and electricity and phone bills.
The total cost of living is approximately $810 per month (please note that this is a guide only).
2. Do I receive a bonus or flight re-imbursement?
One-way airfare is arranged for you and reimbursed within a month of arrival and your one-way airfare home will be provided on completion of your contract.
3. How many holiday days will I receive per year?
2 to 4 weeks of paid holidays, depending on the school.
4. What are my working hours?
You will be working 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. This will include 22 teaching hours and 18 office hours per week.
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?
Penalties will be incurred for the cost of getting a replacement teacher and possible repayment of the airfare depending on the situation and length of employment.
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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