Teach English in Georgia: A Comprehensive Guide
Georgia, a beautiful country nestled
between Europe and Asia, has become an increasingly popular destination for
English teachers in recent years. With its rich culture, hospitable people,
stunning landscapes, and growing demand for English proficiency, teaching
English in Georgia offers a unique and rewarding experience. This article
explores the opportunities, challenges, and rewards of teaching English in
Georgia, providing valuable insights for prospective teachers.
Why Teach English in Georgia?
Teaching English in Georgia offers
numerous advantages, from personal and professional growth to the chance to
explore a culturally diverse country. Here are some compelling reasons:
·
Cultural Exchange: Georgia boasts a rich history, unique traditions, and a warm, welcoming
culture. Teaching English provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in
Georgian customs, cuisine, and festivals, making it an enriching experience
both inside and outside the classroom.
·
Growing Demand for English: As Georgia continues to strengthen its ties with the West,
the demand for English language skills has risen significantly. English is seen
as a gateway to better job opportunities, international education, and improved
communication in the globalized world, making English teachers highly valued.
·
Support from the Government: The Georgian government, through programs like "Teach
and Learn with Georgia" (TLG), has actively promoted the learning of
English by recruiting native and fluent English speakers to teach in public
schools. This initiative reflects Georgia's commitment to enhancing its
educational system and increasing English proficiency nationwide.
Minimum Requirements for Teaching English in Georgia
To teach English in Georgia, certain qualifications and requirements must be met:
1.
A
bachelor’s degree is typically required, although it does not necessarily have
to be in education or English. Having a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign
Language), TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), or CELTA
(Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) certification is highly
preferred and can enhance your job prospects.
2.
While
native English speakers are highly sought after, fluent non-native speakers can
also find opportunities. Some programs may require proof of proficiency, such
as IELTS or TOEFL scores.
3.
A
clean criminal background check is a standard requirement for most teaching
positions.
4. Teachers must undergo a basic health check and secure a valid visa or work permit, often facilitated by the hiring school or program.
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School Year and Structure
The Georgian academic year is divided
into two semesters:
·
Fall
Semester: This semester typically starts in mid-September and runs until late
December. It includes the first half of the academic curriculum and is marked
by holidays that align with national celebrations, such as the New Year.
·
Spring
Semester: Beginning in mid-January, the spring semester continues the
curriculum and concludes in June. This semester allows for the completion of
the year’s academic goals and includes final assessments and examinations.
Throughout these semesters, students
attend classes five days a week, with a curriculum that balances academic
subjects with extracurricular activities designed to promote holistic
development. The structure of the school year and the academic schedule are
reflective of Georgia's commitment to providing a balanced and comprehensive
education that prepares students for the challenges of the future.
Teaching Program in Georgia
Teaching positions in Georgia offer flexible contracts, with opportunities ranging from single-semester (6-9 months) to full-year (two-semester) terms. Those committing to a full year receive additional perks.
Teachers who complete a semester can
opt to renew their contracts. Positions are available throughout the year, with
orientation and training for newcomers conducted bi-monthly in Tbilisi, the
capital. Teachers typically work between 24 to 30 hours per week and also spend
about 3 hours per week tutoring their host family.
Salary and Benefits
Teaching in Georgia is considered
volunteer work; however, teachers receive a monthly stipend to help cover
living expenses. This stipend amounts approximately to $300 or 5,500 ZAR. Given
Georgia’s low cost of living, this stipend aligns closely with the average
Georgian income, which is about $400 USD or 7,400 ZAR per month.
Additional benefits include:
·
Teachers
live with Georgian host families, with accommodation costs averaging round about
$60 USD or 1,100 ZAR per month, making housing extremely affordable.
·
Round-trip
airfare is covered for teachers, and those on a 12-month contract receive an
extra round-trip ticket for holiday purposes. Teachers on two-semester
contracts are also entitled to 24 paid vacation days outside the school year.
·
Teachers
receive comprehensive medical insurance, though it does not cover pre-existing
conditions.
Job Responsibilities
Teachers in Georgia are typically
required to work between 24 to 30 hours each week, which includes both
classroom instruction and time dedicated to lesson planning and preparation.
The role demands a high level of professionalism, with key qualities such as
punctuality, adaptability, and a positive attitude being essential for success.
As the sole English teaching volunteer in most schools, teachers often have the
opportunity to take on a broader role, contributing to the school community by
organizing extracurricular activities. These activities can be customized to
align with the teacher's own interests and the specific needs of the students,
such as running English clubs, sports, arts, or cultural projects.
Beyond their core teaching
responsibilities, volunteers also play an active role in their host families
and communities. They are expected to spend approximately 3 hours per week
tutoring members of their host family in English, which not only enhances the
family’s language skills but also strengthens the cultural exchange experience.
Teachers are also encouraged to
immerse themselves in the local culture and community life. This involvement
might include participating in local festivals, attending community events, or
engaging in volunteer activities outside of their teaching duties. These
interactions not only provide a deeper understanding of Georgian culture but
also foster stronger connections between the volunteers and the community,
enriching the overall experience of teaching and living in Georgia.
Cost of Living in Georgia
The cost of living in Georgia is
relatively low compared to many Western countries. Tbilisi, the capital, offers
affordable living expenses compared to major cities worldwide. For instance,
the cost of living in Tbilisi is lower than in Berlin, Germany, but slightly
higher than in Istanbul, Turkey.
Typical expenses include:
·
For
a one-bedroom apartment in Tbilisi, rent ranges from $200 to $500 per month
(approximately 3,700 to 9,200 ZAR), depending on the apartment’s location and
quality.
·
Groceries
and dining out are economical, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing
around $10 to $15 (about 185 to 275 ZAR).
Living costs can vary based on location and personal lifestyle, so it's advisable to research specific areas where you plan to live and work.
