Top Reasons to Teach English in Cambodia

Teaching English abroad offers an incredible opportunity to experience new cultures while making a lasting impact, and Cambodia stands out as one of the top destinations for doing so. If you’re considering where to embark on your English teaching journey, here are some compelling reasons to choose Cambodia:

1. Growing Demand for English Teachers 

Cambodia’s rapid economic growth has led to an increasing demand for English teachers, especially in urban areas like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. This makes it easier to find teaching positions in schools, language centers, and even with private tutoring. As Cambodia integrates more with the global market, learning English is becoming essential for both students and professionals, providing teachers with ample job opportunities.

2. Immersive Cultural Experience 

Teaching in Cambodia offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in the country’s rich and ancient culture. From exploring the iconic Angkor Wat temples to participating in traditional Khmer festivals, you’ll experience Cambodia’s history and heritage firsthand. This cultural exposure is not only enriching for personal growth but also allows teachers to integrate local customs and traditions into their teaching methods, fostering a deeper connection with students.

3. Affordable Cost of Living 

One of the biggest draws of teaching in Cambodia is the low cost of living. Accommodation, food, and transportation are incredibly affordable, allowing teachers to live comfortably even on a modest salary. This affordability also gives you the chance to save money, travel within Southeast Asia, or indulge in local experiences without breaking the bank.

4. Warm and Welcoming People 

Cambodians are known for their warmth, hospitality, and genuine kindness. Teachers often find themselves embraced by the local community, making it easier to adjust to life in a foreign country. Building relationships with students, colleagues, and locals creates a fulfilling teaching environment, making Cambodia feel like home.

5. Opportunities for Professional Growth 

Whether you’re a certified teacher or a recent graduate, Cambodia provides numerous opportunities for professional development. Many schools and organizations offer ongoing training programs to enhance teaching skills, and some even offer support to obtain TEFL or TESOL certification. By teaching in Cambodia, you can build your resume and gain valuable international teaching experience that will serve you throughout your career.

6. Gateway to Southeast Asia 

Cambodia’s central location in Southeast Asia makes it a fantastic base for exploring neighboring countries. During your breaks or weekends, you can easily travel to Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, or other parts of the region. Teaching in Cambodia offers a perfect blend of work and travel, allowing you to experience the beauty and diversity of the entire region.

7. Making a Positive Impact 

Education is one of the most powerful tools for change, and by teaching English in Cambodia, you’re contributing to the country’s development. Many students view English as a way to improve their future prospects, whether for higher education or better job opportunities. Your efforts as a teacher can open doors for students and positively influence their lives and communities.

8. Adventurous Lifestyle 

For those with a passion for adventure, Cambodia offers a vibrant and exciting lifestyle. From the bustling markets of Phnom Penh to the serene beauty of the Cambodian countryside, there’s always something new to explore. Whether you’re into trekking, temple-hopping, or trying exotic foods, Cambodia promises a truly adventurous teaching experience.

Opportunities to Teach English in Cambodia

Explore the following ways you can get started on your journey teaching English in Cambodia!

International TEFL Academy

Teaching English in Cambodia offers an enriching cultural experience alongside the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. With a TEFL/TESOL certification course in Phnom Penh, you’ll gain essential teaching skills while immersed in the vibrant Cambodian culture. The program offers personalized job placement assistance, connecting you to teaching positions throughout Cambodia, where the demand for English teachers remains strong. 

The course includes live teaching practice, cultural immersion, and comprehensive support for starting your teaching career.

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ)

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) offers two fantastic opportunities to teach English in Cambodia. In Battambang, volunteers work with students aged 5 to 18, teaching English in local schools and community classes. The program provides a great chance to gain teaching experience and contribute to local education. In Siem Reap, volunteers teach children aged 5 to 12 in schools or after-school programs. Both programs help improve students’ English skills, opening doors to future opportunities in Cambodia’s tourism industry. 

Volunteers are provided with accommodation, meals, and orientation, making it an enriching and impactful experience. IVHQ participants can also gain an internationally recognized TEFL certification at a discounted rate.

GoEco

Join GoEco’s Sustainable Community Development program in Cambodia and make a lasting impact by teaching English to underprivileged children. Volunteers work in a local school, offering free education to those who can’t afford tuition. You’ll teach English informally, engage students in creative activities, and promote environmental awareness through hands-on lessons. 

This project is ideal for volunteers looking to gain practical teaching experience while supporting a community in need. Enhance your experience by participating in cultural exchanges and additional environmental activities, making this a meaningful way to contribute to Cambodia’s future.

Projects Abroad

Projects Abroad in Cambodia offers an opportunity to teach English to children from disadvantaged areas in Phnom Penh. Volunteers work in kindergartens and primary schools, focusing on conversational English through fun, interactive lessons. No previous experience is necessary, and volunteers can also assist with extracurricular activities like sports and arts. 

This project allows volunteers to gain valuable teaching experience, help improve students’ English skills, and make a meaningful impact in the community. Volunteers will have guidance and access to resources, with accommodation and meals provided, ensuring a safe and enriching experience in Cambodia.

Involvement Volunteers International (IVI)

Teach English in rural Cambodia with IVI and make a lasting impact at a village school in Samraong. Volunteers help teach basic English, lead fun activities like arts, crafts, and sports, and assist with gardening or light construction. This project supports over 200 local children aged 10 to 15, providing free education in a community setting. 

Volunteers stay in a shared house with meals provided and enjoy cultural immersion in a rural village. Ideal for creative individuals who want to experience authentic Cambodia and contribute to the community’s development. A criminal background check is required.

Volunteering Solutions (VolSol)

The Volunteer Teaching English Program in Cambodia with VolSol offers an opportunity to teach conversational English and basic grammar to locals in Phnom Penh. Volunteers work in schools and training centers, helping students develop skills essential for the growing tourism industry. No teaching degree is required, but an open mindset and passion to make a difference are essential. 

The program requires a minimum two-week commitment, accommodation is provided in a volunteer house or guesthouse, and volunteers receive meals and orientation. This program helps empower students for better career opportunities through improved English proficiency.

Global Vision International (GVI)

GVI in Cambodia offers a variety of programs that allow participants to gain valuable teaching experience while making a positive impact on local communities in Cambodia.

Through their involvement in these initiatives, participants contribute to GVI’s broader mission of improving education and empowering communities in Cambodia, while also developing skills that will serve them in their future careers.

• One of the most unique opportunities is the Teaching English to Buddhist Monks in Cambodia program, based in Siem Reap. Over the course of one to twelve weeks, volunteers teach English to Buddhist monks in the mornings and spend their evenings teaching children from local villages. Through this experience, volunteers gain a deep understanding of Cambodia’s education system and the importance of increasing access to quality education.
• The TEFL and Teaching English Apprenticeship in Cambodia is a 24-week program that combines academic and practical training. Participants earn a 120-hour TEFL certification and complete a three-month work placement at a local NGO. Volunteers assist teachers in the classroom, offering enrichment activities and supporting both student and teacher development. Although leading classes isn’t required, participants often take on shared teaching roles. By the end, they are well-equipped to pursue careers in education or community development, with a guaranteed job offer for eligible participants.
• The Education Research Fellowship offers a hands-on research experience in Siem Reap. Over four to twelve weeks, participants work with GVI’s local partners to collect, analyze, and present data on educational initiatives. This program is ideal for those pursuing academic research, as findings can contribute to theses or ongoing projects. Mentored by qualified supervisors and local experts, fellows gain valuable skills in research methods, cross-cultural communication, and leadership, making it a great opportunity for those looking to work in education or international development.
• Another enriching opportunity is the Teaching Internship in Cambodia, where participants teach English to various age groups and language levels. This program runs for two to twelve weeks and focuses on both classroom teaching and community workshops. Participants work closely with the GVI team to develop educational materials, lead lessons, and plan activities that contribute to long-term educational progress. 

Teach, Travel, and Thrive in Cambodia!

Teaching English in Cambodia not only offers personal and professional rewards but also the chance to immerse yourself in an extraordinary culture while making a real difference. If you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone and embark on a fulfilling journey, Cambodia is a top destination to consider!