How to Teach English in the Netherlands
You will get a very structured experience teaching English in the Netherlands, this is one of the safest countries to visit in the world with modern facilities, schools and education system. Where you teach really depends on your interests, you could choose a large city or head somewhere more rural.
Eligibility / Requirements
Most employers will generally require:
- Higher education & university B.A. degree
- TEFL qualification
- Native English speaker
- Teaching experience desirable
TEFL Courses in Netherlands
If you are not yet TEFL certified, why not consider taking your TEFL course in the Netherlands. There are some classroom courses which can be booked every month of the year. Another option is to take a top rated online TEFL course which allows you to study via the internet from anywhere in the country.
Popular Places to Find TEFL Jobs in the Netherlands:
You can find positions throughout the country in places like:
- Amsterdam
- Rotterdam
- The Hague
- Arnhem
- Maastricht
- Leiden
Teach English in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is famous for bicycles, canals, coffee shops and red light distrct - but there is a lot more to this city than that. Amsterdam is one of the most desirable places to work as a teacher in Europe and it is easy to see why. This is a really fun city to live and work, but please note prices here for accommodation, food and going out are generally higher than the rest of the country. An alternative option to save money you might not have though about is to live in Utrecht but then commute to Amsterdam for work, it is only around 30 minutes on the train.
How Easy is it to Get ESL Employment in the Netherlands
Dutch people are very easy going and tranquil, they also pride themselves on being very good at conversing in foreign languages like English. In a 2011 English Proficiency Index by EF, the Nertherlands came in second place which might make you really consider whether there is that big a need for foreign teachers.
The Netherlands doesn't have the largest population and it can be easier to find work teaching English in Europe in nearby countries like Germany and Czech Republic. Gaining employment as a TEFL teacher in the Netherlands can be difficult, competition is high and your best best might be to work freelance and also give private lessons which generally pay quite well.
Best Time to Gain Employment
The school term starts in September and we recommend starting job hunting in at least August. There are also openings in December whilst if you work freelance you can find year round opportunities.
Salary & Cost of Living
- Estimated Salary: £1,500 - £2,000 per month
- Average cost of living: Approx £800 - £1500 (depending on where you are working)
Benefits
There are so many reasons why you might want to work in the Netherlands as an English teacher. You will get lots of paid time off for school holidays and a relaxed working environment. You might also get to ride a bycle into work, this beats most worldwide commutes and is a very relaxed and healthy way to live.
Top Tips for Getting a Teaching Job
If you are qualified and have experience you will stand a better chance of gaining employment here. If you don't have any previous experience teaching abroad then you might want to consider applying to volunteer in the Netherlands. This is a great way to inregrate into local society, meet new people and improve your Dutch language skills.
How to Apply
The main employment opportunities are found at international or private language schools, academies, colleges and universities. You can search recruiters and positions on our directory.
