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Teaching English abroad could see recession-hit Brits better off in terms of salaries, job security and working conditions, research has found.
According to the findings of a poll by Sibson Consulting, 67 per cent of expats leaving the UK to work abroad are likely to see their current salaries remain at the same level in the future, despite enjoying far lower living costs.
These figures are in sharp contrast to the situation in Britain: according to a survey conducted by the CBI, half of the UK’s companies are planning to freeze their employees’ wages for the time being and 31 per cent of firms do not plan to hire in the spring.
Conversely, the demand for certified TEFL teachers to take on teaching jobs abroad remains high, especially in countries such as China, Japan and South Korea. In fact, around 20,000 TEFL jobs are posted online every month. As a result those who complete a recognised TEFL course, such as those offered by i-to-i, and head abroad to teach English as a foreign language enjoy much better job security.
Jordan Cash, a representative from Footprints recruitment firm, told the Seoul Times that many people are turning to teaching English in South Korea.
"A lot of people seem to think that there is no real potential in the UK or US right now for solid work," he told the news provider.
Mr Cash added that and many also see the opportunity to teach English abroad as a great way to immerse themselves in another culture and build upon their savings.
What’s more, teaching English abroad can see people benefit from a much better quality of life. TEFL teachers often report that they enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle, with far less work-related stress than they would endure at home.
Darren Kenny, 37, who taught English in Japan, said: “The drudgery of working 9 to 5 in an office job in order to pay the mortgage is no longer a goal I desire. I'm far more free than I was this time last year, and life seems full of opportunities. I'm also more patient and less stressed.
“I've found my vocation now: travelling and teaching abroad. As I now possess a skill that is desirable in so many palaces, I can head somewhere else once my contract expires, or stay on. I didn't have this luxury back home.”
Those who want to get TEFL certified and get teaching abroad should speak to one of i-to-i’s TEFL experts on 0800 093 2552 or 800 352 1793 or visit http://www.onlinetefl.com. For media enquiries, contact Honor Baldry at honor.baldry@
Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/
