This country needs no introduction for a TESOL teacher who wants to teach English in Italy. It’s the epicenter of almost everything famous: from its cities (Rome), food (Pizza), architecture (Colosseum), views (Cinque Terre), and much much more to see and do in a lifetime. Teach English by weekday and explore Italy by weekend, you might even fancy a relaxing Gondola ride in Venice as you see the sights.
If you like delectable food, incredible architecture, enchanting landscapes and lemons the size of your head then think about living in Italy. There is definitely a reason why Italy is one of the most visited countries in the world, and it probably has something to do with literally everything it has to offer. The language, the people and the places all make up la dolce vita that can be had in Italia, and teaching English here is now more accessible than ever before!
Your choices of location are endless if you’re teaching online. However, some of the top picks tend to be so for a reason.
Rome is up first on the menu, offering almost 3000 years of history under each footstep. With magnificent architecture around every corner, the city seeps ancient atmosphere from its every pore. Living in Rome, you cannot possibly be bored. With attractions such as Vatican City, the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, not to mention the countless restaurants and bars, you won’t have a spare weekend to fill.
Next up is Milan, the fashion capital of the country. Milan is a city where style is the currency, and this can be seen walking down any street or in any bar. The streets are filled with boutiques and shopping centres to suit every budget and taste. Milan is also the place that advertises the most teaching opportunities and with the best benefits, so you can make decent money here.
Last but far from least is the Southern city of Naples. If you’re looking for somewhere cheaper and sunnier, then look no further than Napoli. Under the constant gaze of Mount Vesuvius, the Neapolitans have a reputation for being some of the friendliest people in Italy and even have a language all their own. If weekends in the birth place of pizza aren’t enough for you, then you can even trek down the road to visit the Amalfi coast, often cited as the most beautiful drive in the world. Naples is also considerably cheaper than the rest of Italy so having that weekend away won’t break the bank.
Did we mention the food? Italy is world renowned for its dishes, and there is way more than just pasta and pizza on offer. Gelato (Italian ice cream) is on offer on almost every street corner for those hot summer days, and sea food galore can be found in cities like Venice and Naples. Frittatina, deep fried pasta with various fillings, is a local favourite that will satisfy any appetite. The Italians take deep pride in their culinary prowess, so are guaranteed a good meal wherever you go in this foodie’s paradise. Unbuckle your belt because resistance is futile after your last ESL class of the day.
Italian culture is deeply rooted in its history, but the Italians also take pride in most everything they have and do, from art to sports, food and music. The language is also a big plus for this country, as many people do speak English, but after a day of teaching you will be more than happy to practice the lavish linguistics that you pick up when ordering your meals or chatting in a café. The Italians are more than happy to help you speak, and it won’t be too long until you’re well versed in a language almost 600 years old. Italy has also made some of the most significant contributions to art, architecture, fashion, film and music in the history of the modern world, if that doesn’t impress you then what will?
As well as teaching online, easily done from your flat or hotel, Italy is currently one of the top contenders for teaching abroad in Europe. In the last 10 years, hundreds of language schools have opened across the country which teach privately or send their teachers into public schools. Teaching English is on the rise in Italy, as only 29% of Italians speak English, and many want to speak the language for better opportunities in the major cities or abroad. If you are lucky enough to teach in a public school, you’ll experience the warmth and hospitality of Italian students. Forever curious and friendly, the students in this marvelous country make the job ever the sweeter. Not to mention the regular pizza parties for the kids in class, which are definitely a plus.
Depending on where you want to go, teaching English in Italy can be quite an easy place to find a job. The majority of schools require a TESOL certificate and a degree, but it isn’t difficult to get around if you have the right attitude. Places outside of the major cities offer many opportunities without a degree, and can be great places to immerse yourself in the culture and learn the language. You will majority find work in public schools or small language centres, but teaching online in Italy is always an option as well if you would prefer to see more of the country and don’t want to stay in one place.
Anyone from a country that is part of the EU is legally allowed to work in Italy, so for European citizens a visa is not required to enter or to teach English. That means no extra fees or visa extensions to worry about. If you aren’t an EU citizen, you may be able to get sponsorship from international schools or Universities, but you can always teach online if you can’t wait to find that opportunity or just want to trot around the remnants of the roman empire.
In short, there is a reason that over 5 million foreign nationals have chosen to up sticks and move to Italy for good. The history, the language, the people and the food are only a handful of things that Italy has to offer and with online teaching now at the forefront of language learning, it’s easier than ever to migrate to the country where foodie dreams come true. Keep your eye out on job boards for the many opportunities in bella Italia, and, as the Italians say; in bocca al lupo! If you want to experience the birthplace of the Renaissance, then teach English in Italy! Enquire with us today about which TESOL certificate is best for you.