A Guide to Teaching English in Bangladesh
Teaching English in Bangladesh offers
a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture while
contributing to the country's educational development. English is widely taught
and used across the country, making it an ideal destination for aspiring
teachers. However, there are certain requirements, challenges, and benefits to
consider before embarking on this journey. This article will provide a detailed
overview of what it takes to become an English teacher in Bangladesh, the
opportunities available, and the living conditions you can expect.
Requirements to Teach English in
Bangladesh
Educational Qualifications
To secure a teaching position in
Bangladesh, you typically need to meet several qualifications. The most common
requirements include:
·
Bachelor’s Degree: Most teaching jobs in Bangladesh require a bachelor’s degree, preferably
in English, Education, or a related field.
·
TEFL Certification: A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification is
essential. This certification usually requires at least 120 hours of coursework
and is recognized as the industry standard. Advanced TEFL certificates in areas
like Business English or Teaching Young Learners can give you an edge in
competitive job markets.
·
Teaching Experience: While not always mandatory, having 2-3 years of teaching experience is
highly desirable. Experience is particularly important for positions in
international schools and universities.
Visa and Work Permit
To legally work as a teacher in
Bangladesh, you will need a work permit and an employment visa. The visa
process is generally straightforward and is often facilitated by your employer.
The basic requirements include:
·
A
valid passport with at least six months of validity.
·
A
job offer from a recognized educational institution in Bangladesh.
·
Completed
visa application forms.
·
Copies
of your qualifications and proof of teaching experience.
·
Passport
photos and proof of visa fee payment.
·
Letters
of recommendation from the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (BEPZA)
and the Board of Investment (BOI).
The initial visa is typically granted
for three months and can be extended for up to three years. Your employer will
usually assist with the work permit application, making the process relatively
simple.
Teaching Opportunities in Bangladesh
Bangladesh offers a variety of
teaching opportunities, ranging from public schools to private language
institutions. Here’s an overview of the main types of teaching jobs available:
Public Schools
English is a compulsory subject in
public schools across Bangladesh. However, teaching positions in public schools
are mostly filled by local teachers. Opportunities for foreign teachers in
public schools are limited and usually offer lower salaries. These positions
typically require at least a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL certificate.
Private Language Schools
Private language schools are one of
the most popular employment options for foreign English teachers. These schools
cater to both young learners and adults, focusing on improving conversational
English and business English skills. Salaries in private language schools are
generally higher than in public schools, and these positions are concentrated
in major cities like Dhaka and Chittagong.
International Schools
International schools offer the best
salaries and benefits for English teachers in Bangladesh. These schools follow
international curricula, such as the British or American systems, and often
require teachers to have a degree in education, along with a TEFL or TESOL
certification. Salaries at international schools can range from R27600 to R46000
per month, with additional benefits such as housing allowances, airfare, and
paid holidays.
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Universities
Teaching at a university in
Bangladesh usually requires a master’s degree or higher in English or a related
field. University positions are prestigious and offer competitive salaries.
However, these jobs are highly sought after, making the job market quite
competitive.
Private Tutoring
Private tutoring is another viable
option for English teachers in Bangladesh. Many professionals and students seek
one-on-one tutoring to improve their English skills for exams, job
opportunities, or study abroad programs. Tutoring rates can vary, but this can
be a lucrative way to supplement your income.
Living in Bangladesh: Salary,
Benefits, and Cost of Living
Salary Expectations
Salaries for English teachers in
Bangladesh can vary widely depending on the type of institution and the
location. Public school teachers can expect to earn between R1950 to R5100 per month, which is approximately R2024 to R5318.
Private language schools offer slightly higher wages, ranging from R5250 to R6750
per month.
The highest salaries are found in
international schools, where teachers can earn between R27 600 to R46 000 per
month. While these salaries might seem modest by Western standards, the low
cost of living in Bangladesh makes them more than sufficient for a comfortable
lifestyle.
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Benefits
In addition to salary, many teaching
positions in Bangladesh offer benefits such as:
·
Housing:
Some employers provide housing or a housing allowance, particularly in
international schools.
·
Airfare:
Many contracts include round-trip airfare.
·
Paid
Holidays: Teachers typically receive paid holidays, including national holidays
and school vacations.
·
Sick
Leave: Paid sick leave is usually included in employment contracts.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Bangladesh is
extremely low, especially when compared to Western countries. For example, in
Dhaka, the capital city, you can rent a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre
for around R2190 per month. If you choose to live outside the city centre, rent
can drop to as low as R1196 per month.
Utilities, including electricity,
water, and internet, are also very affordable. Basic utilities cost about R534
per month, while internet access costs around R240. Eating out is inexpensive
as well, with a meal at a local restaurant costing as little as R55.
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Challenges of Teaching English in Bangladesh
While teaching English in Bangladesh
can be rewarding, it also comes with its challenges. These include:
·
Cultural Differences: Adapting to the local culture and customs can take time, especially if
you are unfamiliar with South Asian cultures.
·
Language Barrier: Although English is widely spoken, not everyone is fluent. Learning
basic Bengali can help you navigate daily life and build rapport with students.
·
Resource Limitations: In some schools, particularly in rural areas, you may encounter limited
teaching resources and large class sizes.
Teaching English in Bangladesh offers
a unique blend of professional opportunity and cultural immersion. With a
growing demand for English education, especially in urban centers, there are
numerous opportunities for qualified teachers. While the requirements are
clear—such as a TEFL certification and a bachelor’s degree—the benefits,
including a low cost of living and the chance to make a significant impact,
make it an attractive option for teachers seeking to work abroad.
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