3 Signs You Should Teach English Abroad in Spain

Teaching English abroad offers a unique blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and professional growth. Spain, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and growing demand for English teachers, is a top destination for aspiring educators. But how do you know if teaching English in Spain is the right choice for you? 

Here are three signs that suggest you should pack your bags and head to the Iberian Peninsula.

1. You Crave Cultural Immersion and Language Learning

If you have a passion for experiencing new cultures and learning languages, Spain is a dream destination. The country offers a deep and varied cultural landscape, from the flamenco rhythms of Andalusia to the art and architecture of Barcelona. 

Teaching English in Spain provides you with the opportunity to live as a local, not just a tourist. You’ll have the chance to engage with the culture on a deeper level—whether it’s participating in local festivals, enjoying Spanish cuisine, or simply chatting with your neighbors. Plus, if you’re eager to learn Spanish, there’s no better way than being surrounded by native speakers every day.

2. You Seek Work-Life Balance and a Slower Pace of Life

Spain is renowned for its relaxed lifestyle, where work-life balance is more than just a concept—it’s a way of life. If you’re tired of the fast-paced grind and crave a slower, more fulfilling daily routine, teaching English in Spain could be your ideal path. The Spanish siesta culture, long lunch breaks, and emphasis on socializing after work contribute to a more leisurely pace. 

As a teacher, you’ll find that your schedule often allows for afternoons off, giving you plenty of time to explore, relax, and truly enjoy your surroundings. Whether it’s taking a walk on the beach, sipping a café con leche at a local café, or traveling to nearby towns on the weekend, Spain offers the perfect setting for a balanced lifestyle.

3. You’re Passionate About Making a Difference in Students’ Lives

Teaching English is not just a job; it’s a way to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. In Spain, where English proficiency is increasingly seen as a vital skill for career advancement, your role as a teacher will be highly valued. 

If you’re motivated by the idea of helping students achieve their goals, then teaching in Spain is a rewarding experience. You’ll work with students of all ages, from young children in primary schools to adults looking to improve their career prospects. The gratitude and progress of your students will remind you daily why you chose this path, and the relationships you build will make your time in Spain unforgettable.

Kickstart your Teaching Journey in Spain!

International TEFL Academy

Securing a teaching position typically requires a Bachelor’s degree, and obtaining a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification can significantly enhance your job prospects.

Why not get certified to teach English while you’re in Spain?

• TEFL / TESOL Course in Barcelona: An accredited, intensive 4-week TEFL TESOL certification program located in Barcelona’s Eixample district, close to La Sagrada Familia. The course demands around 8 hours of class time daily, and class size is limited to 12 to ensure quality instruction, with facilities offering internet, lounge, and computer lab access. The curriculum covers practical and theoretical aspects of teaching English, including live practice teaching. Assistance is offered for accommodation during the course and job placements upon graduation. 
• Hybrid TEFL / TESOL Course in Madrid: This 4-week course combines 65 hours of online pre-arrival coursework with 70 hours of in-person training in Madrid, focusing on providing practical classroom experience through live teaching practice. The course is located in central Madrid, with modern amenities and small class sizes for a personalized learning environment. 

Gain Experience Teaching English in Spain

Institutions may offer higher wages to teachers who bring specialized skills, such as experience in teaching business English or preparing students for international exams. You will also have an advantage if you can show demonstrable past teaching experience.

Here’s how you can get teaching experience while you’re in Spain:

• Try a Teaching in Spain Internship!
  • An exciting option for those interested in teaching and helping young people is Intern HQ’s Education Internships in Valencia. 
  • These internships are a great way to gain teaching-related experience by helping out in a classroom, working directly with students, or supporting organizations that help young people between the ages of five to 18.
  • The internships can be at private schools or non-profit organizations (NGOs) and last from 2 to 24 weeks. They provide a full experience, including accommodation and meals.

• Volunteer with Young People in Spain
  • Participate in IVHQ’s Youth Support project in Barcelona, aiding disadvantaged youth in schools and after-school centers.
  • Engage in activities such as homework help, teaching English, and mentoring, contributing to personal development and life skills.
  • Open to volunteers aged 18+, with opportunities ranging from 2 to 12 weeks including optional Spanish lessons.

• Join GoEco’s Youth Empowerment project in Barcelona
  • Support disadvantaged youth in after-school centers.
  • Engage in activities such as homework help, organizing educational activities, and teaching English, fostering personal development and essential life skills.
  • Open to volunteers aged 18+, with opportunities ranging from 2 to 12 week

• Support Early Childhood Development with GVI
  • Join the Volunteer with Children program in Barcelona’s Nou Barris district, focusing on early childhood development through fun and educational activities.
  • Engage in organizing recreational activities, providing educational support, and collaborating with a team to plan enriching experiences that contribute to children’s growth and well-being.
  • Open to volunteers aged 18+, with durations ranging from 2 to 12 weeks, including opportunities for personal growth through yoga, meditation, and optional cultural activities.

Teaching English in Spain Is Your Calling!

Teaching English abroad in Spain is more than just an opportunity to see a new country—it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a rich culture, enjoy a balanced lifestyle, and make a real difference in the lives of your students. If these signs resonate with you, then Spain might just be the perfect place for your next adventure. So why wait? Your Spanish classroom is waiting for you!