Teach English in Cambodia

Phnom Penh is the beginning of your TEFL journey in Cambodia. Based in the south centre of Cambodia, it’s the largest and wealthiest city in the country. There’s so much to see and do; temples, museums, the Royal Palace and some of the most luxurious hotels you could see.

It’s cheaper to live in Cambodia than it’s neighbours, since it’s still a lesser known destination. This is also advantageous, since a lot of the attractions and landscape are unspoilt. In the capital, there is a tempting array of foods, traditional Khmer street food, or just around the corner haute cuisine. Even at the best of restaurants the bill may bring a smile to your face, eating out is so inexpensive.

There’s something to excite everyone – for the more adventurous the north east boasts stunning scenery, wildlife, trek routes and mountain biking experiences. You can explore the famous temple of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO heritage site that brings thousands of visitors to Asia each year. Famously, Tomb Raider was filmed at the temples and in Cambodia. Another side people often aren’t aware of, is handmade silverware, crafts and artwork all sold at local markets for a fraction of the price you’d find elsewhere.

Cambodia is truly a magical place to live, and as a TEFL teacher, you’ll be helping to shape the country’s future as a thriving Asian nation.

The cost of living in Cambodia is extremely inexpensive. You can expect to spend around $500 – $900 each month on all living costs; rent, food, bills, transport and so on. Leaving you with plenty of spare cash each month to spend or save as you please.

It’s recommended to have savings of approx $1000 – $1500 USD before you begin your program, to live comfortably until you’re paid by your employer, which is usually at the end of your first month teaching.

OPTIONS DURING THE COURSE

We have 3 levels of recommendation for housing during the course. There are guest houses and hotels, ranging in price from budget options, mid-priced and more expensive hotels (still under $25 USD per night!) so there is something for everyone.

OPTIONS AFTER THE COURSE

The team in country will support you in finding accommodation, close to your new place of work. Most TEFL teachers tend to share with other teachers or expats, in large shared apartments, or smaller solo apartments in the city. Shared apartments are usually quite big, with 3 or so bedrooms and clean communal areas. A solo apartment will be fully equipped for one person, and are usually furnished. You can expect to spend approx $500 USD per month on your accommodation, including bills. This can vary, but is a typical price for a shared or small apartment in the city.

• Course format

You’ll study for 150 hours in 4 weeks, with 20 hours of practicals included! It’s a full time, Monday to Friday schedule. There will be time off evenings and weekends to prepare lessons, homework and for leisure of course.

• Teaching practices

You’ll have teaching practicals amounting to a total of 20 hours throughout the course. You’ll complete these over the weeks, so you continue to build confidence. You’ll complete these practicals in the same building as the training centre.

• Type of assessment

You will be constantly observed and assessed throughout the your theory and practical hours. There are essays, and a final essay and exam to complete.

• Course location and centre

The famous Riverside area, well-known for its abundant night-life, is a 5-minute walk from the training centre. Street food, decent restaurants, bars, coffee shops, laundry services and entertainment venues are all within walking distance.

•  Requirements 

To take the TEFL course you need to be at least 21 years old (although each application is considered on a case by case basis). You can also be a non-native speaker of English as long as you have a level C1 or above, which will be tested during the interview. You do not need a Bachelors degree, nor need to know any Khmer language – although it’s useful for day to day living.

•  Job market and employment possibility

Cambodia has a large job market for TEFL teachers. Since it’s an up and coming country, there’s a huge incentive for Cambodian people to learn English.

•  Visa Requirements

Visa information changes all the time. Most candidates enter on a pre-purchased tourist visa. Following the course and once you’ve secured your new job, you’ll be guided through the process of applying for a work permit. This is correct at the time of publication, for accurate up to date information, please email/contact us.

In Cambodia, there are jobs in private language centres, or in a primary/secondary school environment. There are opportunities to teach all ages, from kindergarten through to business English adult classes. You’ll have full support in securing the role that suits you best.

Most TEFL teachers have classes for 20-25 hours per week, and preparation time in between. The larger cities have lots more opportunities and better pay but there are jobs in more rural location too with benefits such as teachers accommodation.

Salaries are between $1000-$1600 USD per month, dependent on background and working hours. If you hold a bachelors degree (in any discipline) you can expect to earn at the higher end of that scale.