One of the most popular TEFL destinations in Eastern Europe, the Czech Republic is a country rich in cultural character and history. The vibrant capital of Prague is home to a cosmopolitan atmosphere and captivating architecture. Cheap public transport makes it possible to explore the rest of the country at ease, so it’s easy to get out of the city and visit the scenic spots in the countryside where you can enjoy hiking or skiing. From spectacular mountain ranges to colourful bohemian markets, there is so much to experience and discover in the Czech Republic.
Prague is undoubtedly the most sought-after TEFL location in the country. While there are plenty of opportunities to live in the country’s capital, competition can be tough for the better jobs. However, don’t overlook living in smaller cities or towns where you can enjoy an immersive experience in the country and live like a local, all while still enjoying visits to the capital in your free time. The best paid jobs aren’t necessarily found in the capital, either. At the heart of central Europe, you’ll also be perfectly placed for visiting other countries either in the east or west side of the continent on your longer holidays.
With opportunities for both seasoned and newly-qualified teachers, a degree in English can be required for some jobs, which might put off teachers with majors in other subjects. However, if you have experience teaching Business English then you shouldn’t have difficulty finding employment.
Key Facts
- Popular locations for TEFL jobs: Prague, Brno, Chomutov, Liberec, Hradec Kralove, Ceske Bud Jovice, and Olomouc.
- Average salary for EFL teachers: The basic monthly salary for full-time positions is likely to be in the region of 14,870 -36,000 Krone (£500 – £1,285 / $600 – $1,450) per month. Hourly rates are around 200 to 350 Krone (£7 – £12 /$8 – $14).
- TEFL qualification requirements: A 120-hour TEFL qualification is required for most jobs, and positions in the capital might need more advanced qualifications – in Prague in particular, an online TEFL course often won’t be enough, so incorporating classroom training into your studies would be beneficial.
- Prerequisite university degree: A degree is usually required, some positions ask for degrees in English or a related subject.
- Term times: September to June.
- Currency: Czech koruna (CZK)
- Language: Czech
- Teaching programmes: Public schools, Private schools, Language schools, Freelance, Summer camps.
- Age restrictions: None.
- Previous teaching experience: Experience preferred, sometimes 2-3 years.
There are plenty of teaching positions in the Czech Republic, particularly if you’re not fussy about which location you go to. Some of the easiest jobs to get are in the language schools that offer after-school lessons for kids and evening classes for adults. The TEFL market in this country is quite focused on adult learners who want to improve for business or tourism, but there is a growing market to further support children and teenagers who are learning the language at school. If you want to teach in a public school, positions are more likely to be found in small towns than in Prague where competition can be fierce.
Accommodation is often arranged by the school for full-time positions, available to the teacher for free or at a low cost. Apartments are often quite basic. Wages aren’t the highest in the Czech Republic, but as teachers generally work around 25 hours per week, there is plenty of scope to take up private or online students in your own time to make extra money. Freelance teaching can be the most lucrative, particularly if you pitch lower prices and teach in small groups rather than one to one. Salaries for full-time positions are usually based on your qualifications and experience. Teachers are expected to be smartly dressed and reasonably formal in manner. Apply in April for positions in the next academic year. Lessons are often conversation based, and some teachers find that it can be tricky to encourage students to talk, and also hard to correct mistakes without putting them off.
Requirements to teach English in Spain
| Country | Avg. monthly salary | Degree required | Start of term | Teaching experience | Housing & flights included | Suitable for non-native English speakers | Age restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Teach in Czech Republic | £500 – £1,285 $600 – $1,450) |
Preferred | September | Preferred | No | Yes | None |
Living Costs
In Eastern Europe, the Czech Republic is about midway when it comes to the cost of living, with similar prices to Lithuania, Slovakia and Hungary. Since the country joined the EU, there has been an influx of foreigners resulting in a booming real estate market. When it comes to capital cities, Prague is one of the best values for money and makes it possible to live in the city even if you don’t have a top earning job. When looking for somewhere to live, try to get a local or native Czech speaker to help you – estate agents geared towards foreigners will list more expensive properties than those easily available to local people. However, it’s not uncommon for teachers to find positions with paid accommodation and will get assistance in finding their apartment, or have hostel accommodation provided while they house hunt.
The prevalence of foreign expats means that the country has a diverse social scene with plenty of cosmopolitan restaurants and bars, particularly in the capital. Crime rates are quite low even in the capital, just be more wary of crowded tourist spots as you would in any major city, as pickpocketing is on the rise. Public transport is cheap and efficient, so where possible take the bus, subway or tram to avoid using local taxis, which sometimes try to scam foreigners. It can be really tricky to get a driving licence in the Czech Republic, especially for non-EU citizens, so avoid this if possible. Petrol is also really expensive here. The healthcare system is both good and cheap, but don’t expect exemplary manners from the doctor as they tend to be quite brusque.
Popular outdoor pursuits in the Czech Republic include hiking, skiing and cycling. Salaries for expats in the country are often higher than what locals receive, and so foreigners can afford to take up new hobbies and enjoy a good quality of life.
- Accommodation: £624 – £921 / $765 – $1,128
- Utilities: £105 / $129
- Cost of typical visit to a GP: £25 / $31
- Monthly transport pass: £18 / $22
- Basic dinner out for two: £15 / $19
- Cappuccino in expat area: £2.10 / $2.57
- A beer in a pub: £1.20 / $1.47
- 1 litre of milk: £0.67 / $0.82
- 2 litres of Coca-Cola: £1.06 / $1.29
(living costs sourced from Expatistan)
