ConnectESL | Guide to Teaching English in France

Teaching English in France

France, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and world-famous cuisine, is an ideal destination for English teachers seeking both professional and personal growth. Whether you're strolling through the streets of Paris or enjoying the Mediterranean coastline of Nice, teaching in France offers a perfect balance of work and cultural immersion.

Why Teach English in France?

France has long been a sought-after destination for English teachers, offering an opportunity to work in one of the world's most beloved countries. Here's why teaching in France is a fantastic choice:

Cultural Immersion: Whether it's the art galleries of Paris, the vineyards of Bordeaux, or the beaches of the French Riviera, France offers a diverse cultural experience. Living and teaching in France allows you to immerse yourself in French language, history, and customs, enriching your life both inside and outside the classroom.
Professional Development: Teaching in France is a great way to enhance your teaching skills and experience. From language schools to private tutoring, the demand for English teachers is high, providing ample opportunity to develop professionally.
Travel Opportunities: France's central location in Europe makes it easy to travel during your time off. Explore the picturesque towns of France or hop on a train to Italy, Spain, or Germany for a weekend getaway.
Language Learning: If you're interested in improving your French, living and working in France provides a perfect opportunity. Even if you're teaching English, you'll likely pick up conversational French through daily interactions.

Requirements to Teach English in France

Here's a quick look at what you'll need to teach English in France:

Bachelor's Degree: A degree in any field is typically required for most teaching positions.
TEFL Certification: A TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certification is highly recommended and often required by schools and language institutes.
Work Visa: Non-EU citizens will need to secure a visa, often through a student visa or working holiday visa, though some international schools may offer visa sponsorship.
French Language Skills: While not always mandatory, basic French proficiency can be helpful for daily life and integrating into the community.

Visa for Teaching in France

One of the biggest hurdles for non-EU citizens wanting to teach in France is obtaining the right visa. Here are the common visa options available:

Working Holiday Visa: Available to citizens of countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, this visa allows people aged 18-30/35 to work in France for up to a year.
Student Visa: A popular option for those wanting to study French while teaching part-time (up to 20 hours a week). Many teachers take language courses at universities or approved language schools to qualify for this visa.
Work Visa: Rare, but possible for those sponsored by elite private or international schools. This visa is typically reserved for qualified, experienced teachers and requires an offer of employment from a French school willing to sponsor the visa.

EU nationals do not need a visa to work in France, but must register for a residence permit and obtain a tax number with assistance from their school.

Job Types and Salaries

There are several types of teaching jobs available in France:

Private Language Schools: These are a common route for teachers, offering classes for children, adults, and professionals. Teachers typically earn between €1,000 and €2,000 per month.
Public Schools (TAPIF Program): The TAPIF program is a popular option for U.S. citizens, offering a stipend of €790 per month for teaching assistants in public schools.
Private Schools: Private schools in France can be less strict than international schools in terms of qualifications, often accepting TEFL-certified teachers without degrees. Salaries typically range from €1,000 to €2,500 depending on the school and location.
International Schools: These prestigious schools offer higher salaries, often starting at €2,000 and going up to €4,500 per month for experienced teachers. These positions are more competitive and typically require a degree and TEFL certification.
Universities: For those with a master's degree and teaching experience, university teaching offers a more stable and well-paid career. Salaries can average €2,000 to €3,500 per month, with fewer teaching hours.
Private Tutoring: Many teachers supplement their income with private tutoring, charging €15 to €25 per hour, depending on location and experience.
Summer Camps: Teaching English at summer camps can be a great entry point for new teachers. Pay is typically around €1,000 to €1,500 per month, and it provides an opportunity to build teaching experience.

Best Places to Teach English in France

There are a variety of cities across France offering English teaching opportunities:

Paris: The capital and largest city offers the most teaching opportunities but comes with a high cost of living.
Lyon: A cultural hub known for its gastronomy and historical landmarks, Lyon is a great option for teachers who want a blend of urban and cultural experiences.
Marseille: Located on the Mediterranean coast, Marseille offers a laid-back lifestyle and opportunities in a city that's rich with history and diversity.
Bordeaux: Famous for its wine, Bordeaux offers a quieter lifestyle with scenic views and strong demand for English teachers.
Nice: Situated on the French Riviera, Nice is a perfect destination for teachers who want to enjoy the sunny Mediterranean climate.

Cost of Living in France

The cost of living in France varies depending on the city or town. Here are rough estimates for basic expenses:

Rent: €600-1,500 for a one-bedroom in a city center, €400-800 outside the city center.
Groceries: €300-500 per month.
Utilities: €100-200 per month for electricity, heating, and internet.
Transportation: €50-70 per month for a public transit pass.

Paris and other major cities have higher living costs, but smaller towns offer more affordable options.

Finding Teaching Jobs in France

Hiring for teaching positions in France typically takes place from June to August for the start of the school year in September. Private language schools often hire year-round. Teachers should prepare a CV, TEFL certification, and apply directly to schools or through job boards.

Find a Job!

Ready to begin your teaching adventure in France? Explore job opportunities on ConnectESL and start your journey toward a fulfilling teaching career in France.