Teach English in Peru

Peru is home to the infamous Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan city high in the Andes mountains. It’s one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world with 90 different micro-climates. Peru is a truly stunning country that is equal parts beautiful, historic, and ambitious. It is truly one of the great success stories in South America and it keeps getting better.

The training centre is located in the city of Cusco. It sits directly across from Q’oricancha – the Temple of the Sun and the most sacred site in the Inca Empire. The city of Cusco is most famous for its interesting mix of Inca ruins and colonial architecture – so much so the entire city has been designated an UNESCO World Heritage Site by the United Nations.

The low cost of living in Peru means teachers can enjoy a good life, even on a modest salary. Peruvian food is delicious, comes in huge quantities and is cheap! Housing and travel are also very inexpensive. Depending on your lifestyle, a frugal English teacher can save money every month. The cost of living is $400-$450 per month.

It’s recommended to have savings of approx $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

• Host Family shared room: $570 for four weeks
• Host family private room $655 for four weeks
• Private Apartment: $595 for four weeks

Family-stays are with approved host families who have been working with the team for many years. Family-stays include a shared room with a shared bathroom. You will be sharing with people of the same gender and approximate age if you choose this option.

Private rooms and bathrooms are also available. Host families offer comfortable beds, hot showers, and WiFi, although internet service can sometimes be slow. Guests are free to come and go as they please, but you should always respect the basic rules of living with a host-family.

Family-stays include breakfast and dinner 7 days per week. Families are very accustomed to hosting international guests and are happy to cook vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free meals.

Private apartments are fully furnished, include WiFi, and are very comfortable. Apartments come with equipped kitchens including plates and utensils required to live comfortably and cook for yourself. Private apartments are a great option for individuals who prefer their privacy and also for couples. Apartments are centrally located and are within easy walking distance of the TEFL training centre.

OPTIONS AFTER THE COURSE

Accommodation is extrenely inexpensive in Peru, you can find other expats to share accommodation with, private apartments or local family stays. Rent is approximately $200 USD per month depending on the type you choose. You’ll have the support of the training team and your employer to secure housing ready for your arrival at your new work place.

• Course format

You’ll study for 150 hours over the 4 week training period. You will also complete 12 hours of teaching practises with real students. It’s a full time, Monday to Friday program, with weekends off.

• Teaching practices

You’ll teach local Peruvian students during your practical sessions, usually in groups of 10 students. All classes are with local learners, who are keen to expand upon their English knowledge.

• Type of assessment

You will complete 2 academic papers, a final portfolio, along with your observed teaching practises during the program.

• Course location and centre

The training centre is in the heart of Cusco, on the Avenida El Sol. It’s 3 blocks from the historical centre, close to shops, cafes and nightlife. You have air conditioning, WiFi, a computer lab and an onsite snack bar.

• Requirements

To complete the TEFL course you need to be at least 18 years old (although each applicant 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. A Bachelors degree (in any discipline) is preferred, however there are plenty of TEFL jobs for non degree holders.

• Job market and employment possibility

New positions are available every month, year-round. Demand for English teachers is so high that TEFL graduates can immediately begin their career teaching English right after the course. TEFL graduates find opportunities working with adults and teens in both private institutes and public school settings. In Cusco, Arequipa, Trujillo, Chiclayo, and of course Lima, there are thousands of private English institutes and K-12 schools.

• Visa Requirements

You’ll enter Peru on a 180 day visa on arrival. Following the course, your employer will assist you with renewing your visa.

Peruvians place a high value on academic credentials and they are always looking to advance their English language skills to remain competitive in the international market. The Peruvian culture holds “profes” in high esteem and you should be prepared to take your role seriously.

Graduates find opportunities working with adults and teens in both private institutes and public school settings. In Cusco, Arequipa, Trujillo, Chiclayo, and of course Lima, there are thousands of private English institutes and K-12 schools. Those who can commit to a minimum of 1 year can obtain positions in K-12 schools, meanwhile teachers who prefer to commit for only 3-12 months find opportunities in language schools. 

Private institutes hire year-round. K-12 schools follow the Latin American school year and tend to hire between January and February. Most TEFL teachers work 25-30 hours per week, although total hours and curriculum standards differ between employers.

Average pay per month for a TEFL teacher in Peru is $400-$550 USD per month.