Your Complete Guide to Teaching English in Indonesia
Teaching English abroad is an
increasingly popular career choice for those looking to explore new cultures
while sharing their language skills. Indonesia, with its diverse culture, stunning
landscapes, and an increasing demand for English education, presents an
attractive destination for English teachers. This article will provide a
detailed guide on how to teach English in Indonesia, covering where to teach,
the requirements, the best TEFL certification, average salary expectations, the
types of teaching jobs available, and the possibility of teaching English
online to Indonesian students.
Where to Teach English in Indonesia
- Jakarta: The capital city and
the largest metropolitan area in Indonesia, Jakarta is a bustling urban centre
with numerous international schools, language institutes, and universities. It
is the most popular destination for expatriate teachers due to the high demand
for English education.
- Bali: Known globally for its beautiful
beaches and vibrant culture, Bali also has a growing demand for English
teachers, especially in international schools and tourist areas. The lifestyle
here is relaxed, and the expat community is thriving.
- Surabaya: Indonesia’s
second-largest city, located in East Java, is another key destination for
English teachers. Surabaya has a good mix of modern amenities and traditional
Javanese culture, offering teaching positions in various schools and language
centres.
- Bandung: Often referred to as
the "Paris of Java," Bandung is a city surrounded by lush mountains
and is famous for its universities and research institutions. The demand for
English teachers here is primarily in higher education and private language
schools.
- Yogyakarta: A cultural and
educational hub, Yogyakarta is home to some of Indonesia's top universities and
is known for its rich heritage. Teaching opportunities here are primarily in
universities and private language institutes.
Requirements for Teaching English in Indonesia
- A Bachelor’s Degree: A university
degree is a mandatory requirement for obtaining a work visa in Indonesia. The
degree does not necessarily have to be in education or English, but it is
preferred.
- TEFL/TESOL/CELTA Certification:
While not always mandatory, 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 greatly
improves your chances of securing a good teaching position.
- Native English Speaker: Most
schools and language centres prefer hiring native English speakers from
countries such as the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and
South Africa.
- Teaching Experience: Although
some positions may be open to those without prior teaching experience, having
at least one or two years of teaching experience can be advantageous,
especially when applying for positions in international schools or
universities.
- Valid Work Visa: To legally
work in Indonesia, you must obtain a work visa (KITAS). The process is usually
facilitated by your employer, but it’s important to ensure that all your
documentation is in order before arrival.
Best TEFL Certification for Teaching in Indonesia
- CELTA (Certificate in English
Language Teaching to Adults): CELTA is one of the most respected and widely
recognised TEFL certifications globally. It is accredited by Cambridge
University and is highly valued by employers in Indonesia, particularly in more
prestigious institutions.
- TEFL/TESOL Certification: A
TEFL or TESOL certification from a reputable provider is also acceptable in
Indonesia. It is advisable to choose a course that offers at least 120 hours of
instruction, as this is the standard expected by most employers. Some
well-regarded providers include International TEFL Academy, The TEFL Org, and i-to-i
TEFL.
- In-Country TEFL Courses: If you
prefer hands-on experience and immediate immersion, you can take a TEFL course
in Indonesia. Several providers offer in-country TEFL courses, which often
include a teaching practicum in a local school, giving you valuable experience and
connections.
Types of Teaching Jobs in Indonesia
- Language Schools: These are the
most common employers of foreign English teachers in Indonesia. Language
schools cater to students of all ages and levels, from young learners to
adults, and often offer flexible working hours.
- International Schools:
Indonesia has a growing number of international schools, which follow foreign
curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the British
curriculum. These schools generally have high academic standards and offer attractive
salaries and benefits.
- Public Schools/: Teaching in
public schools is less common for foreign teachers, but opportunities exist,
especially in rural areas. These positions are usually coordinated through
government programmes or non-profit organisations.
- Universities: Teaching English
at a university level requires advanced qualifications, but it offers a more
academic environment and the chance to work with older students. University
positions may also involve research and curriculum development.
- Private Tutoring: As mentioned
earlier, private tutoring is a popular way for teachers to earn extra income.
It’s flexible and allows you to work with students on a one-on-one basis,
tailoring lessons to their specific needs.
Average Salary for English Teachers in Indonesia
- Language Schools: Most English
teachers in Indonesia work in private language schools, where the average salary
ranges from $650 to $1050 USD per month. These positions often include benefits
such as housing allowances, health insurance, and annual leave.
- International Schools: Teaching
in international schools is more lucrative, with salaries ranging from $2500
and $3000 USD per month, depending on the school’s prestige and your
experience. International schools usually offer extensive benefits, including
housing, health insurance, and sometimes even airfare allowances.
- Universities: University
teaching positions salaries can vary widely, but generally start at around $850
USD per month. These positions often require a higher level of qualification,
such as a Master’s degree or a PhD.
- Private Tutoring: Many English
teachers supplement their income through private tutoring, charging between $10
to $25 per hour. Private tutoring can be a lucrative way to earn extra money,
especially in urban areas.
Teaching English Online to Indonesian Students
- VIPKid: Although primarily focused
on Chinese students, VIPKid also has students from other countries, including
Indonesia.
- Preply: A global platform that
allows teachers to set their rates and teach students from various countries,
including Indonesia.
- Cambly: Another popular online
teaching platform that connects teachers with students from around the world,
including Indonesia. Cambly is particularly good for conversational practice.
When teaching online, it’s
important to ensure you have a reliable internet connection and a suitable
environment for conducting lessons. Online teaching can be done from anywhere
in the world, making it a great option for those who wish to work remotely.
Teaching English in Indonesia is
a rewarding experience that offers a unique blend of cultural immersion,
professional development, and the opportunity to explore one of the most
diverse countries in the world. Whether you choose to teach in a bustling city
like Jakarta or a tranquil setting like Bali, Indonesia has something to offer
every teacher. By meeting the necessary requirements, obtaining a reputable
TEFL certification, and understanding the various teaching opportunities
available, you can embark on a fulfilling teaching career in Indonesia.
Additionally, the option to teach English online provides further flexibility,
making it possible to reach students across the archipelago and beyond.
With the right preparation and
mindset, teaching English in Indonesia can be a life-changing experience that
opens doors to new adventures and cultural exchanges.
