Teach English in France

One of the most romanticized countries in the world – and it’s for a very good reason that teachers choose to teach English in France. During the day, you can stroll through the cobblestone streets of Paris while on your way to the one of the most well-know tourist attractions Eiffel tower. If you are in the mood for a relaxing picnic, take a blanket and buy some famous French cheese and wine, while you sit on the grass underneath the Eiffel Tower until the stunning light show that starts at sunset. With very diverse cities and sights to explore, including the famous Mona Lisa at the Louvre (below). It’s a great teaching English option for any TESOL teacher.

Whether you’re looking for romance, lights or maybe just some decent cheese, France could be the place where your TESOL dreams come true. Who hasn’t imagined walking along the River Seine to work or drinking wine in Provence on their weekends? France is home to one of the most visited cities in the world, and its countryside and beaches will not leave anyone wanting either. So whether you’re a fan of the finer things or a just after a foodie frenzy, France could be your ideal TESOL location.

Cities Spotlight– Paris, Lyon & Montpellier

Paris

Of course the city of lights is usually the top pick for most dreamy-eyed wanderers in Europe, but La Ville Lumiere has much more to offer than just a spark. Paris is home to two of the most visited attractions in the entire world, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. With all of the tourism that spills into the city on an almost daily basis, Paris has become a cosmopolitan hub of people from distant lands looking to make it in the city of love. Arguably the fashion capital of the entire world, Paris also boasts prowess in a thousand other fields, from Art to Food, Theatre to Nightlife and so much more. Paris isn’t just for lovers after all.

Lyon

Many teachers now are choosing not to risk the expense of the Capital city and set up shop in smaller cities further South, Lyon being a now popular choice. Lyon holds the impressive title of the capital of Gastronomy in France, and with the reputation of French food, this is a title it is really trying to defend. Foodies flock to Lyon in floods, eager to try the local delicacies that give the region it’s title. Lyon sits very centre in France, meaning that foods from all over the country are transported there with ease, giving the city a diverse and incredible range of tastes. If you’re looking to improve your cooking skills, Lyon can be your guide.

Montpellier

For those looking to go further South, and smartly so, Montpellier is becoming a new centre for foreign teachers. The majority of primary and secondary schools are now open to hiring ESL teachers to add to their curriculum, and spending every day of your life in the South of France is something that most people only dream will happen in their retirement. Montpellier is a great mix of traditional French style and modern convenience. Spend your evenings dating down the cobbled streets, and your weekends on exploring the countryside, just outside of this charming Southern city.

Food

Famous for its fine dining, that doesn’t mean that France’s food is only accessible to an elite crowd. The bread and cheese alone are an essential part of the tourist diet, so whether you’re passing through or plan to stay you most certainly can fill up on these everyday items from any bakers or supermarket. Restaurants vary, from the Buchons of Lyon to the Brasseries of Paris, in what kind of food they specialize in. Further South you tend to sample the more rustic soups and fish dishes, whereas up North sweet treats can be found around every corner. The French are also very famous for enjoying a coffee or two, so cafes selling assortments of small dishes, cakes and breads are a dime a dozen wherever you go. If you prefer something a little stronger, wine tasting can be found throughout the South. A stone’s throw away from almost every doorstep will get you to wine country, where you can purchase bottles of wine by the dozen for quite a fair price.  One thing is for sure, living in France, you’ll never go hungry. Or thirsty for that matter.

Culture

French culture does differ from place to place, but above all else it can be extremely relaxed. In Paris, it’s not uncommon to see a woman on her way to work in simple black pants and a white tee with no makeup. This is the secret to French style and beauty; don’t try too hard. The high culture influence of Paris worldwide gives most people the impression that the French are wealthy and stuck up, when this is completely untrue. The French have a pleasant demeanor, with their day to day lives focused around socializing and café culture. They can be extremely hospitable, especially if you try to learn the language and don’t just assume that everyone can or wants to speak English all the time. In smaller towns especially you can make a great impression on the locals who will be willing to help you along as best they can if you give the language your best go. Learning the language will allow you to live the life you’ve seen on the movie screens, sauntering down cobbled streets with a baguette in one hand and a bottle of wine in the other, greeting your neighbours as you return to your chateau.

Job Types

People find work in many different fields when they teach English in France, from working online and Au Pairing, to teaching business English to adults. There really is a great variety in France, and many opportunities are found when you arrive. You may land in Aix-En-Provence and plan on staying for a week while teaching online, then find yourself speaking to a local who knows a Kindergarten looking for an English teacher. As previously mentioned, more primary and secondary school work is available in cities like Montpellier, whereas in Lyon, adults and business training are going to be your bread and butter. The French tend to work hard but have long holidays, so asking about your paid time off is a big must to remember when applying.

Qualifications Required

In France you will need a degree to find work before you arrive. However, once you get there it can be quite a different story, as long as you have a TESOL qualification. Many people use their teaching qualification to apply for Au Pair jobs instead as they get the opportunity to get a bit of experience working with children. It doesn’t require a degree, but you can still use the skills you’ve acquired through training as many French families want their children to learn English. If working for a family doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, you can always teach online while you explore France at your own leisurely pace.

Visas

EU citizens have an easy ride in France as anyone can work here without requiring a visa. Sponsorship is available for those from further afield through various educational institutions, or you can teach online and work your way through Europe on your tourist visa.

Getting Started

If you can just taste the vino now and smell the baguettes baking, then it may be time to go and start your very own French fairytale. France has a way of making you fall in love, whether that be with Paris, the food, the people or a special person. Either way, to teach English in France is just as they say; La Vie En Rose.