Teaching English in France – Paris

Published: 06 March, 2017  |  Last updated: 06 March, 2017

Teaching English in Paris, France

France-Paris

Report submitted on 27 Feb, 2017 by Preeshymite.

Teaching English in Paris, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Paris, France?
Normally through the internet and expat websites and expat Facebook groups that share jobs around.

Or promoting yourself around Paris with flyers or French friends (if you have any!).

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Part time English language school positions, agencies (send teachers to different locations), private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.).

Business English through private school are very popular. Most young French are looking to learn English, but in particular all ages are desperate to learn Business English!

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
Having a TEFL certificate is great, but being a native speaker/fluent of English or if you’ve grown up in an anglo-taxon country is generally enough to teach. However, if you want to teach in bilingual or international schools, a teaching (*sometimes* require from France) degree and fluency in French is necessary.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
To have ease and a less stressful experience teaching English in a foreign country, I highly recommend doing a TEFL course to get you into the mind frame of a teacher, the workload and expectations required of you. Especially if you’ve never taught before (like myself). It’s much more work than you think!

In France, you are likely to be asked to apply for a “Entrepreneur Status” so you can work as a sole trader for yourself and not an agency or school.

What are the levels of payment?
Generally you can charge between 25-40 (approx. 26 – 42 US$) euros an hour, depending on your experience of teaching and confidence to teach!

How many teaching days a week is normal?
Not too sure – you can work 5-6 hours a day if you like Monday – Friday days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
No idea, I don’t work a “normal” job hours per week

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
Generally the school holidays are your holidays.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Paris, France to teach English?
Get a TEFL certificate and try and observe some classes in your home country. Either adults, teens or children. The more experience you have seeing how teaching is done, the less scared you’ll be when you arrive.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Paris, France?
If you don’t have a great level of French yet – your student will undoubtedly teach you some new things, naturally. So you benefit from each other and it’s fun learning about different cultures and exchanging cultural differences with your students. They want to know all about anglo-saxon culture!

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Paris, France?
It’s not a very secure job, and you can be out of pocket for a few weeks if it’s holidays. There are also lots of scummy jobs that exploit foreign people and they’re very sneaky (and nice) about trying to keep you in the job, so be aware of your rights in France!

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
The language barrier has been a little difficult so far, especially teaching children under 7, as classroom management get really tough if you can’t express yourself in their native language. But you’re here to teach them English and I believe speaking English should be the main focus, not explaining things in French. Although it requires a lot of patience!!

 

Living in Paris, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
As an Australian and being under 30 – France and Australia have a special visa for Australians: Working Holiday Visa which entitles you to live and work in France for up to 12 months.

What is the cost of living like in France?
Paris…well is Paris. It’s expensive regardless. Living IN Paris, meaning inside the “Périphérique” you’re looking at 500-800 (approx. 529 – 847 US$) euros a month in a shared apartment or 700-1000 (approx. 740 – 1058 US$) euros for a studio.

Food is reasonably priced in France. A Metro pass a month can range from 40-73 (42,50 – 77,50 US$) euros depending on the zones you need to travel, but some work places offer reductions on these too as well as give you restaurant tickets which you can use anywhere during lunch time and get 7 (approx. 7,40 US$) euros off your meal.

Depending on the arrondissement you go out to and hang at – a coffee can cost 5 (approx. 5,30 US$) euros (TOO EXPENSIVE) or 1-2 (approx. 1,10 – 2,10 US$) euros at others. Same goes with pints of beer!

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
I’m in a unique position as I live with my partners family, but most young people share or “coloc” as it’s called in France. If you can afford a studio – -mad props to you!

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Paris, France?
Paris is a very historical place, with amazing culture and great food. Everywhere you turn there is something new to discover and be in awe about.
But seriously…THE FOOD! *drools*

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, France?
It’s Winter here at the moment….whilst in my home country of Australia, it’s the beautiful Summer…I miss the sun the most so so so much! The weather can really affect your mental health too, and being away from family and not sharing the same language can make you feel isolated – so make sure to learn French whilst your here!

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Paris, France?
Learn French, connect with expats currently living in France, get a TEFL certificate, be ready for French Bureaucracy….it’s a nightmare sometimes and processes of things can take a long time (much longer than what I’m used to in Australia), get ready from an amazing culinary experience (be adventurous! and please don’t eat frogs legs…most Frenchies find this so unethical! Yes times do change) and finally don’t be afraid to make mistakes (especially whilst speaking French), it’s better to attempt speaking French first before you launch into English. The French appreciate it (even if they don’t show it, they really do), but if you don’t make the effort, they’ll be less inclined to help you 😛

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
THE SUNSHINE!

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave France?
The transport system hahah the metro is amazing!
The food…mmmm boulangeries
The cheap wine and beer
The cultural / historical events/buildings and cinema
The sound of French being spoken everywhere of course!

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
Surprisingly it’s easy to get Vegemite and Tim Tams these days….except they’re like 4 euros and under….pretty pricey but for a slice of home 🙂 it’s nothing.

I love Lemon Myrtle the scent and mixed in tea – it’s unlikely to find native Australian things like that here (obviously). Plus Australian items are super expensive here and are seen as a luxury item (hot thing to have)!

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Preeshymite

Nationality: Australian

Students I’ve taught in France: Pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), university, adults, business.

Where I teach: … Teaching for 2 months.

How I found my current jobs: Online, through English speaking expat groups.
 

My school facilities: Good. Classroom and teaching resources are good.

 

Do you teach English in France?

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Teaching English in France – Vasles

Published: 06 March, 2017  |  Last updated: 06 March, 2017

Teaching English in Vasles, France

Vasles-France

Report submitted on 24 Jan, 2017 by Josie.

Teaching English in Vasles, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Vasles, France?
It’s hard to get a foot in the door unless you have contacts or they come to you.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Part time English language school positions, agencies (send teachers to different locations), teaching at kindergartens / pre-schools, teaching at private international schools, teaching at community centers, etc., private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.).

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
Previous teaching experience, TEFL or in my case being a mum at the school!

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
Speak French to a good level and be super patient, also have excellent grammar skills.

What are the levels of payment?
Outside of the towns and in rural areas the pay is low, about €15 (approx. 16 US$) per hour.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
4.5 days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
15 hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
School holidays are 2 week Oct, Feb, Apr and 2 months for summer.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Vasles, France to teach English?
Do not come to rural France unless you have contacts or a job offer. Stick to the cities or big towns as there are more opportunities.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Vasles, France?
Students are very enthusiastic and love learning about all things British.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Vasles, France?
The bureaucracy and paperwork and lack of teaching resources.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
Most people around here have hardly left the region, let alone the country and have no idea what life is like outside France. They have very fixed stereotypes and can be very closed.

 

Living in Vasles, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
Not for Europeans, but non-EU need a visa or carte de sejour.

What is the cost of living like in France?
More expensive that the UK for most things other than fuel and wine.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
Not sure as I am a permanent resident and own a house. I think renting is quite hard without a proof of income.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Vasles, France?
Beautiful countryside, great weather and a lovely relaxed upbringing for children with plenty of space and safety.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, France?
There is NOTHING happening in the evening unless you meet up with friends at their house. Everything shuts by 9.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Vasles, France?
Think very carefully about what it is you want. If it is a career and nightlife, don’t bother.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
Going out to a pub, or to see a show…in fact just going out in the evening.

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave France?
The peace and quiet, space, empty roads, good food, wine etc.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
Cheap stationary, teaching resources and a good range of clothes. French clothes are rubbish.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Josie

Nationality: English

Students I’ve taught in France: Toddlers (2-4 years), pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), adults.

Where I teach: Ecole privée – Vasles. Teaching for 6 years.

How I found my current jobs: My children went to the school and the headmistress approached me and asked if I would be willing to set up English lessons.
 

My school facilities: Inadequate. There are no teaching resources provided, I have to find my own. We still have blackboards and no technology exists. Classrooms are very basic.

 

Do you teach English in France?

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Teaching English in France – Nice

Published: 06 December, 2016  |  Last updated: 06 December, 2016

Teaching English in Nice, France

france-nice

Report submitted on 19 Nov, 2016 by Gemma.

Teaching English in Nice, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Nice, France?
Language schools, word of mouth, other English teachers in Nice.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Agencies (send teachers to different locations), teaching at companies, private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.)

Getting a full-time job contract in France is very complicated, and seems to be offered to French people who can navigate their way through the system. Therefore, it’s easier to be a free-lancer who is sent to different clients at their home or place of work, or to teach short courses for the students’ specific needs; for example, they need to pass an exam or need it for their job.

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
Generally, a TEFL certificate. Native speakers are preferred. Non-native speakers may need a higher qualification to give them an edge, and many non-natives teach only up to the pre-intermediate level. If they have a car and can travel to clients, this helps as well.

Perhaps a higher education is required for a university or state school.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
Be a native English speaker. The more experience, the better. TEFL is generally okay.

What are the levels of payment?
It varies between 16 – 40 euros an hour. France has a very complicated tax system and it’s expensive to hire people under job contracts as the employer has to pay their employees’ social charges. If a teacher does have a job contract, they’re likely to receive less per hour than a freelancer. However, a freelancer has no guarantee of a set amount per week, and has to travel to each client at the times that the client prefers. This may mean working in the evenings, during the lunch break or perhaps even on Saturday.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
Nothing is normal in France

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
Most is face-to-face. hours per week

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
It depends on the student and the school.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Nice, France to teach English?
Be prepared for a lot bureaucracy and inflexible attitudes!

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Nice, France?
English is held in very high esteem in France, and people feel it’s very important to speak English. French people love English music, films and TV series. My students are generally very motivated to learn and improve. They’re also generally not afraid to say when they don’t understand, to ask questions, and to provide feedback as to what they’d like to learn.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Nice, France?
I don’t have a lot of support in terms of resources and training. Directors of language schools are tied up in red-tape and are more interested in sorting out paperwork rather than keeping up with innovative teaching ideas and resources. French students generally are not afraid to complain either if they’re not happy with a teacher.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
Lack of practice outside the classroom for the students. It’s difficult for them to progress. TV and films are all dubbed into French, so French people are completely unaccustomed to the sounds of English, and their lack of oral comprehension causes frustration and de-motivation. The methods of learning English at school are ineffective as they learn to read and write, but they can’t speak or understand. Additionally, their teachers at school are usually French, and even if the teacher conducts the class in English, learners are unaccustomed to native English speech.

 

Living in Nice, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
Yes, you must be a European citizen or have a visa to work. Some universities offer a year’s job contract and visa to native English speakers.

What is the cost of living like in France?
Cost of living is fairly high. Taxes and social charges are high and therefore wages are quite low. As a result of the high taxes, services such as hairdressing, clothing repairs, plumbers and electricians etc are expensive. Rents are generally high.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
Accommodation is very difficult. In order to rent, a person must have a permanent job contract called a CDI; however getting a CDI is difficult. Normally, a person gets a temporary job contract first, and then a permanent one. In addition, a person must earn 3 times the rent. As this is virtually impossible on the riviera, some landlords will accept two times the rent. If you don’t have a CDI, they won’t sniff at you. I was lucky to find a landlord who accepted a year’s rent in advance in lieu of a CDI.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Nice, France?
Perhaps you can learn French if you’re really determined.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, France?
Trying to understand French culture and mentality. Even after two years here, I’m still struggling. My French teacher told me that French people’s “bark is worse than their bite.” It’s really a nation of rebels, who love to fight against any perceived injustice, authority or wrong attitude. The idea that they beheaded their king in order to get justice still resonates. In order for me to get what I want, my voice has to be louder than theirs. I have to put aside my polite anglophone ways and not accept no for an answer; or to realise that no is always the first answer, then after much insistence and negotiation, it becomes maybe, and then after more patience, persistence and negotiation, it might perhaps eventually become yes. Why the answer can’t just be yes in the first place, I don’t know!

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Nice, France?
See above.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
Being able to speak English and to fully express myself!

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave France?
Perhaps one dear friend.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
Teaching books/resources, especially for lower-levels.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Gemma

NationalityAustralian

Students I’ve taught in France: Babies (0-2 years), elementary (6-12 years), adults, business.

Where I teach: — In Nice, teaching here for 2 year.

How I found my current jobsOnline.
 

My school facilities: Adequate. Teaching resources, technology and classrooms.

What kind of teacher support is available at your school/s?: None.
 

Do you teach English in France?

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Teaching English in France – Morez

Published: 22 September, 2016  |  Last updated: 22 September, 2016

Teaching English in Morez, France

morez_france

Report submitted on 21 Sep, 2016 by Sarah.

Teaching English in Morez, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Morez, France?
Private advertising, through agencies or ask at local schools or town hall.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Part time English language school positions, agencies (send teachers to different locations), teaching at state schools, teaching at private international schools, teaching at community centers, etc., private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.)

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
I personally had no previous experience or qualifications. My diploma is in performing arts and I was previously a children’s entertainer. If you have a love and a talent for teaching language that was enough.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
For a Professional full time position you would need a degree and to complete french teacher training.

What are the levels of payment?
I earn 15€ (approx. US$ 16.70) per hour.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
5 days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
35 hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
Generally bank holidays and school holidays.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Morez, France to teach English?
Bring loads of baked beans, they cost about 5 times as much here you could make a fortune!

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Morez, France?
People are generally really interested to learn and they really love english culture.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Morez, France?
There are a lot of stereotypes about english people and you have to prove that you an cook good food.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
There are very few english people or opportunities for english immersion.

 

Living in Morez, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
No visa required for EU citizens, I don’t really know about non EU.

What is the cost of living like in France?
It’s more expensive where I am because I live on the border but generally its ok.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
You can easily find rentals online.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Morez, France?
Beautiful beautiful scenery and cheap skiing in the winter!

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in scenery, France?
Very remote and hard to find clothes for tall people. If you are larger than a uk 14 it is difficult to find clothes and if your feet are bigger than a size 13 it is hard to find shoes.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Morez, France?
Bring some warm clothes and you can’t get by without a car.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
Nothing.

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave France?
The lakes, snow and mountains.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
Baked beans, clothes, curry powder, marmite, smoked paprika, jelly, angel delight, mango chutney, golden syrup.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Sarah

Nationality: English

Students I’ve taught in France: Toddlers (2-4 years), pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), adults

Where I teachEcole sur les puits, Morez. Teaching here for 5 years.

I also teach privately.

How I found my current jobs
The town hall called me to offer me a job after I did a few free lessons for the local school

My school facilities: Very good – They have well equipped classrooms and the teachers are excellent.
 

Do you teach English in France?

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Teaching English in France – Fontainebleau

Published: 16 September, 2016  |  Last updated: 16 September, 2016

Teaching English in Fontainebleau, Francefontainebleau_france

Report submitted on 5 Apr, 2016 by Mexannie.

Teaching English in Fontainebleau, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Fontainebleau, France?
There is a great anglophone community in the area. Join the Facebook groups ESL teachers in Fontainebleau and join the Crossroads FB group. People recommend each other. Lots of the private Catholic schools are always looking for English teachers, so send CV’s. Networking!

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Part time English language school positions, agencies (send teachers to different locations), teaching at private international schools, private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.)

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
If you want to teach privately, no qualifications are necessary, just the ability to speak and write English! A TEFL or similar course is very useful and of course any experience of working with children or adults.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
Most people want native language English speakers and some form of experience is recommended.

What are the levels of payment?
Private 25-30€ (approx. US$ 28-33.50) per hour. Private school is the same, agencies normally pay less than 20€ (approx. US$ 22.30).

How many teaching days a week is normal?
4.5 days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
15 hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
If you are teaching privately you can offer lesson in the school holidays if you are available. If you have a contract you will be paid over the holidays.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Fontainebleau, France to teach English?

There are plenty of opportunities to work, but I’m not sure about “earning a living” and relying on it to pay rent, food etc. I work part time.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Fontainebleau, France?
Lots of demand for teacher’s, International school in the area, close to Paris schools too.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Fontainebleau, France?
None

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
You have to know your grammar if you are teaching adults!! You can get away with knowing less if you are teaching under 15’s, but then they always want to know why? What are the rules?

 

Living in Fontainebleau, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
Currently if you are a member of the EU you do not require a VISA or any kind of work permit. You would have to enquire for other countries as I am unfamiliar with the laws and would not want to give false advice.

What is the cost of living like in France?
Expensive! Food is more expensive than the UK, petrol cheaper, clothes etc. more expensive unless you are prepared to travel to find larger international chain stores. Rent etc. is not cheap either.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
I live here permanently so don’t know about this I’m afraid. The FB pages would be a good place to start.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Fontainebleau, France?
Good: Food, wine, weather, countryside, outdoor pursuits, friendly people.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in Fontainebleau, France?
Expensive living costs, bad drivers!

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Fontainebleau, France?
Get a teaching qualification and find work before you get here, even if it’s only a foot in the door to start with.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
Baked bean, cheddar cheese, Vicotia sponge cake, scones, black and white cows, good TV, films shown in their original language, the ability to buy South African wine, decent opening hours and being able to do stuff at lunchtime other than eat!

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave France?
The weather, our house, croissants, Paris, my sister, the Chateaux, the countryside, the restaurants.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
Stationery items are expensive here, so bring as much as you can.

About Me and My Work:

My NameMexannie

Nationality: British

Students I’ve taught in France: Toddlers (2-4 years), pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), adults

Where I teach:Language Connexion, Fontainebleau. Working here for 1 year.

I also teach at the Centre Actif Bilangue and privately after school and in the evenings/weekends.

How I found my current jobs: Internet searches, word of mouth.

My school facilitiesGoodTechnology, classrooms etc. Not excellent as they are a bit run down, one school only has a black and white photocopier and no laminator.

Teacher support at my schoolNone.
 
 

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Teaching English in France – Vienne

Published: 15 September, 2016  |  Last updated: 15 September, 2016

Teaching English in Vienne, Francevienne_france

Report submitted on 20 Mar, 2016 by Sarah.

Teaching English in Vienne, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Vienne, France?
Apply directly to private schools, or go through the French CAPES process (competitive exam and school placement).

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Full time English language school positions, teaching at private international schools, teaching at colleges / universities, teaching at companies, private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.)

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
Native speakers with diplomas and experience can get low-paying jobs by applying directly to schools.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
To have tenure and better pay, you must have a master’s degree and take the CAPES exam.

What are the levels of payment?
15-25€/hour (approx. US$ 17-28) for private lessons, 42€/hour (approx. US$ 47) net for universities, 32€/hr (approx. US$ 36) net for elementary or middle schools.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
4 days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
18 hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
Many holidays: 2 weeks off: fall, Christmas, February, April. Summer: 8-9 weeks in July and August

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Vienne, France to teach English?

You can do it but it’s not easy.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Vienne, France?
People love Anglophone cultures and are interested to have your point of view, as well as expertise. The students also appreciate Anglo-Saxon teaching methods that get them speaking and include positive encouragement.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Vienne, France?
There is no equivalent for teaching diplomas and one must go through the French competitive exam to have a stable position.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
Students are not used to speaking up in class.

 

Living in Vienne, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
Non European citizens must have a “working visa” which can be acquired by the job contract, but is easier to get if you study in France or get married to a French citizen.

What is the cost of living like in France?
Quite high, though health care is mostly free.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
Apartments or houses. Some government contracts have accommodation included (Teaching assistant positions). It is difficult to rent without solid job contract.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Vienne, France?
The food, the metro, beautiful architecture, cultural events.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in Vienne, France?
People can be judgmental, tend to complain and take advantage of the social benefits (health care, aides, etc).

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Vienne, France?
Young teachers can easily get their feet wet using the Teaching Assistant program.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
General friendliness.

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave France?
The food and the diverse regions (countryside, specialties).

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
Birth certificate and diplomas (translate them from a “traducteur assurmenté” when you arrive), plain Cheerios if you have young children, apple butter, almond butter, fruit strips.

About Me and My Work:

My NameSarah

Nationality: American

Students I’ve taught in France: Pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), university, adults.

Where I teachInstitution Robin, Vienne. Working here for 8 years.

How I found my current jobs: I was sought out for this job because I was a native speaker with experience.

My school facilitiesAdequate. Teachers in France don’t have their own classroom so we cannot decorate, which provides lots of encouragement for the students.
They don’t have school libraries before the university level. Schools are very cheap but as a result there are little resources.

Teacher support at my schoolNone.
 
 

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Teaching English in Paris – France

Published: 05 July, 2016  |  Last updated: 11 August, 2016

Teaching English in Paris, France

 

 

Report submitted on 1 Feb, 2016 by Belle.

Teaching English in Paris, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Paris, France?
Teachers or inexperienced with a TEFL can find jobs on craiglist Paris or fusac.fr.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Full time English language school positions, part time English language school positions, agencies (send teachers to different locations), private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.)

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
I was very lucky, I had been offered to work in my local community as I was not far from the association and lived locally. I only have TEFL, native English speakers.  Some require degree some do not request.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
TEFL and 1 year experience.

What are the levels of payment?
Depending who hires you. It ranges from 13 euros (approx. US$ 14) up, I was offered 27 euros (approx. US$30) an hour .
You will not get paid for school holidays or sick leave, so read the contract carefully.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
6 days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
17 hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
School is about 6-7 weeks then usually 2 weeks holiday.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Paris, France to teach English?
If you are coming to Paris for love ok stay but also for experience why not. But to live here for long term, I do not recommend it.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Paris, France?
Teaching kids ages 2-6 years old is positive. Paris city itself is a beautiful place.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Paris, France?
Teaching 7-11 years old disrespect kids. The French seem to be quite negative, and I think Paris is just a busy city. Pay is not as good if you aren’t lucky. Monthly salary.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
Depending in the area.

 

Living in Paris, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
You need a visa, carte de sejour a resident card or EU passport

What is the cost of living like in France?
Accommodation for share is 400-600 (approx. US$443 -US$664). Own place ranges from 500-1000 (approx. US$553 – US$1107) a month all in euros, transport is only 70 euros (approx. US$77), 1-5 zones . But most school or agency pay half of your transport.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
Fusac.fr

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Paris, France?
Here for love.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in Paris, France?
Monthly pay. I’m from Australia where there ws weekly pay.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Paris, France?
Be mindful why you are coming to Paris. Think twice.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
The weather, high salary and weekly pay.

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave France?
Fresh baguettes.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country?
I would go to London to the pound store buy pound books and pound posters.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Belle

Nationality: Australian

Students I’ve taught in France: babies (0-2 years), toddlers (2-4 years), pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years).

Where I teach: School/ association in Paris, France. Teaching here for 3 years.

How I found my current jobs: Craig-list Paris.

My school facilities: Good – Classrooms, free photocopying machine use for me has helped me out.

Teacher support at my school: none.
 

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Teaching English in France – Paris

Published: 08 September, 2014  |  Last updated: 08 September, 2014

Teaching English in Paris, France

Paris, France

 

Report submitted on 08 September, 2014 by Angie.

Teaching English in Paris, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Paris, France?
Free-lance, associations, town hall, all schools. There are a lot of opportunities.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Full time English language school positions, part time English language school positions, agencies (send teachers to different locations), teaching at kindergartens / pre-schools, teaching at state schools, teaching at private international schools, teaching at colleges / universities, teaching at companies, teaching at community centers, etc., private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.).

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
Speaking English language fluently and experience. Sometimes diplomas are required but they don’t really check.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
A TEFL diploma.

What are the levels of payment?
It goes from 25€ to 50€ per hour.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
4-5 days per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
We have school holidays every 6 weeks for 2 weeks, then a long summer holiday. Parents like putting kids in an English speaking summer camp for the vacation holidays.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Paris, France to teach English?
Be patient and tolerant. French people can sometimes be annoying!

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Paris, France?
Motivated and enthusiastic students.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Paris, France?
Annoying parents of these motivated students.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
Competition (for teaching work).

 

Living in Paris, France:

What is the cost of living like in France?
Depends where you live. Paris suburbs are less expensive than Paris. Going out can be expensive.

How can you find accommodation?
Agencies, newspapers, internet…

Local private schools help you to find a place but you will pay the rent.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Paris, France?
Beautiful country, great food, good pay, and large English speaking community.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in Paris, France?
Sometimes you meet unfriendly people, but that’s everywhere I guess!

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Paris, France to live?
Find the English or American community as soon as you can. You will need their support.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
Friendly service in stores and restaurants.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country (e.g. things that are difficult to get in your location)?
Nothing. Everything you need is here. Perhaps books in English.

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave Paris, France?
I have a family here so I don’t plan on leaving.
I would miss the beautiful countryside and Paris, and great food!

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Angie

Nationality: French/American

Students I’ve taught in France: Pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), adults, business.

Where I teach: Different public schools and an association, and I’m also freelance. I’ve been teaching here for 1 year.

How I found my current jobs: Just by applying. People come to me too.

My school facilities: Adequate – Not enough resources. I need to find my own.

Teacher support at my school: None.

 

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Teaching English in France – Béziers

Published: 04 September, 2014  |  Last updated: 04 September, 2014

Teaching English in Béziers, France

Béziers, France

 

Report submitted on 02 September, 2014 by Francois.

Teaching English in Béziers, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Béziers, France?
There are not many opportunities around the city I live in. Montpellier is a bigger city closeby and there are therefore more opportunities there.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Agencies (send teachers to different locations), private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.)

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
You would have to hold a degree in English and in education, preferably a Bachelor’s degree.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
It is quite hard to find a teaching position in French schools, due to the very protective nature of the French government. All teachers in State schools have to have a French degree. There are opportunities in the private sector, so the more experience you have the better. Speaking French is a requirement.

What are the levels of payment?
Can range from 15€ per hours if you work for a company to 55€ per hour if you are very experienced and can sell your services to a company.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
4 days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
18 hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
5 weeks if you are employed. It is the law here in France. It will be more if you are hired by a school. If you are self employed you have to work all the time!

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Béziers, France to teach English?
Definitely be fluent in French and learn about French culture before you come. A lot of people want to learn a foreign language and their first choice is usually English.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Béziers, France?
The south of France is gorgeous and the weather is terrific! You have the sea and the mountain not far, lots of tourists during the summer months.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Béziers, France?
The economy isn’t doing so great in France, not many jobs available.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
You have to know French and make sure you can teach pronunciation well.

 

Living in Béziers, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
If you are not a EU citizen, you will have to have legal status to be able to live in France. It can be very difficult to get.

What is the cost of living like in France?
Cost of living in France is quite comparable to the USA. Small towns are cheaper, Paris is outrageously expensive.

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
Most people live in apartments if they are within the city limits. You can rent apartments quite cheaply in small towns.

Local private schools help you to find a place but you will pay the rent.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Béziers, France?
The weather and proximity to the sea and mountains.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in Béziers, France?
It is a small town and pretty poor. People tend to be conservative and not very welcoming at first.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Béziers, France to live?
Be patient, get to know people. At first people tend to not be as friendly as they would be in the USA for instance. It doesn’t mean they are not nice, they need to get to know you first!

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
Stores being opened all the time. Good customer service!

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country (e.g. things that are difficult to get in your location)?
You can find all the things you find elsewhere in the industrialized world. If you really like peanut butter, Cheezwiz or vegemite… bring it along, the French are very conservative with their food 🙂

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave Béziers, France?
The food!!!

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Francois

Nationality: American

Students I’ve taught in France: Elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), university, adults, business.

Where I teach: I teach privately. My wife and I created a structure and we teach locally and on Skype. My wife teaches mostly French and I teach ESL.  I’ve been teaching here for 1 year.

How I found my current jobs: I am self employed.

My school facilities: Good – All schools have good to superior facilities.

Teacher support at my school: Training / workshops, lesson observations.

Links: http://living-in-languedoc.com

 

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Teaching English in France – Royan

Published: 01 July, 2014  |  Last updated: 01 July, 2014

Teaching English in Royan, France

 

Royan, France

Report submitted on 1 July, 2014 by Nicky.

Teaching English in Royan, France:

How can teachers find teaching jobs in Royan, France?
Tricky, there is a language school but it is oversubscribed with French students studying English looking for work. I find my own private students.
The French education system is quite closed to outside influence.

The main English teaching jobs available are:
Private teaching (not through a school, agency, etc.)

What are the minimum teaching requirements?
University degree or equivalent. TEFL course.

What teaching requirements would you recommend?
Good level of French to help you get jobs in the first place.

What are the levels of payment?
20-25 Euros/hour.

How many teaching days a week is normal?
5 days per week.

How many face-to-face teaching hours a week is normal?
25 hours per week.

What is the normal arrangement for holidays?
If you are in a language school summer holidays are the busiest time, same for private students.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Royan, France to teach English?
After completing this form I wouldn’t!
I can survive as I am not the bread winner, I have 2 young children which also occupy my time.
The French system is difficult to get into, you need good French.

What are the positive aspects of teaching English in Royan, France?
People are lovely.

What are the negative aspects for teaching English in Royan, France?
The System.

What are some of the teaching challenges for English teachers teaching the local people in your area?
Nothing particular.

 

Living in Royan, France:

Are there any visa or other legal requirements to live in France?
None, but you have to get into the system.

What is the cost of living like in France?
Housing – reasonable.
Everything else is more expensive than the UK (except for wine)

What are the usual accommodation arrangements and how can you find accommodation?
Local papers.

Other than teaching, what positive aspects are there for living in Royan, France?
I love where I live, 2 mins from the sea, beach life in summer. Lovely friends. Fairly open community to foreigners.

Other than teaching, what negative aspects are there for living in Royan, France?
The cost. The expensive social charge system.

What advice would you give to someone considering coming to Royan, France to live?
Think twice.

What things do you miss most (other than family and friends) from your home country?
The ease in which you can start your own business, the help and support you get. Less bureaucracy.

What things would you recommend to new teachers in your area to bring with them from their home country (e.g. things that are difficult to get in your location)?
You can get everything you need here.

What do you think you will miss most when (or if) you leave Royan, France?
The lifestyle.

 

About Me and My Work:

My Name: Nicky

Nationality: British

Students I’ve taught in Japan: Pre-school / kindergarten (4-6 years), elementary (6-12 years), junior high school (12-15 years), high school (15-18 years), adults.

Where I teach: Privately from home or in peoples own homes in Royan for 2 years.

How I found my current jobs: I advertised on the Internet. Now through word of mouth.

School facilities: Good – Everything that is required by students is adequately provided. The education system is good here..

 

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