How to Teach English in Spain

Do you have visions of flamenco, tapas, siesta, or paella in your future? Are you aspiring to teach abroad in sunny Spain? If so, allow me to break down the two dominant programs for you, so you can make a well informed decision from the available opportunities.

The Position: Language and Culture Assistant

This is not a lead teacher position. You will never be in a classroom alone, but only assisting the lead teacher with lessons, pronunciation, and cultural activities. From time to time, you may be asked to lead a lesson with help from the main classroom teacher. While the responsibilities vary according to the school, you can expect 12 hours of classroom work each week, and an additional 5-7 hours of prep time work. There are different types of schools you can be placed in: early childhood education, primary school, secondary school, or an adult language school. The placement time frame is from the beginning of October to the end of May. The program is open to anyone with a B.S. or B.A., as well as rising university juniors and seniors.

The Options:

There are two good options to teach abroad in Spain: One involves working with the Spanish government directly, and the other is working with CIEE (a private organization with a long history in international education). The best fit for you really depends on your desired level of independence in Spain:

If you have studied abroad before and/or have a very high level of Spanish, I recommend applying through the Spanish government. They are seeking candidates with good Spanish skills, leadership, education, or tutoring experience, and those who can settle in Spain with little guidance.

If you have anxiety about the transition to living abroad and have a lower/intermediate level of Spanish, I recommend applying through CIEE. While there is a program fee associated with this organization (you can, however, apply for a scholarship), you can expect more in regards to getting your questions answered prior to and upon arrival in Spain. CIEE offers language immersion classes (2-week or 4-week options) associated with a reputable language school in Sevilla as well as an online TEFL certification class through the TEFL Institute in Chicago. The additional add-ons obviously incur higher fees, but can be valuable depending on your previous experience and future career goals. The scope of the CIEE Teach in Spain program is limited to Andalusia, the southern region of Spain.

When/How to Apply:

Wonderful beaches at your doorstep.

Applications for both programs are competitive. I recommend applying as early as possible. On your resume and application, highlight any experiences abroad or with other cultures, leadership/teaching experience, and be sure to proofread! You are applying to teach English.. showcase how well you know the language!

• Spanish government: Reviews applications until the end of March 2011.
• CIEE: Accepts applications up until March 15, 2011.

For More Information:

Apply with the Spanish Government
Apply with CIEE

Pre-departure support:

Spanish Government: This is very limited. Being accepted to this program indicates that you are autonomous enough to handle living arrangements and other advanced planning on your own. They will give you the information of your school placement, but schools are usually unable to respond to any inquiries during the summer.

CIEE: The CIEE staff in the U.S equip you with plenty of information before your departure for Spain. There are webinars, e-mails, forums, and many other communication mediums to get your questions answered and quell your fears. While there are many things they cannot arrange for you (finding your housing, getting your visa), they will coach you through the process as much as possible.

Orientation/Acclimation to Spain:

Spanish Government: There is an orientation luncheon in the beginning of October coordinated for all of the Language and Culture Assistants. This meeting is an opportunity to meet new people and learn more about the identity card application process. Other than this meeting, there is no orientation. You can expect a monthly (brief) newsletter.

CIEE: Depending on the program you select, there can be up to 5 days of Orientation in Sevilla prior to beginning your job in your placement. This orientation gives you a chance to get to know fellow Language and Culture Assistants, learn how and where to get a cell phone, a bank account, your NIE (Spanish identity card), the basics of apartment hunting and even get in a bit of Spanish practice. Little goes unanswered in this orientation.

After starting work in your school, the staff in Sevilla are still an incredibly useful resource if you have any problems adjusting to Spanish life. At the very least they send out a monthly newsletter with lesson ideas, program information, as well as cultural happenings that you may not be aware of.

Spain's rich culture.

Payment:

The monthly payment is the same through both programs: 700 euros. Depending on your placement (in a small town as opposed to a city), your money may go further, but regardless, it is definitely feasible to live off of this monthly stipend.

Health Insurance:

Spanish Government: There is basic healthcare provided for all Language and Culture Assistants through the local government. It does not cover prescriptions, however, which are very inexpensive compared the typical prices in the U.S.

CIEE: Traveler’s insurance is provided through this program. It is recommended that you have additional insurance for good measure. Some people have encountered difficulties with doctors accepting this type of insurance, while others have used it with no problems. Regardless, you will need to pay upfront for any type of doctors visit (to be reimbursed), and additionally for any type of prescription (not covered). Even when you are covered under the iNext insurance, reimbursements can take up to two months, and are usually sent to your American address.