WOW!! GREAT information, SRedW! Thanks very very much! I know I'LL be looking into it!!!

Saludos, MadridMan

As an English teacher here in Madrid, I agree with SRedw in that having certification is a good thing, particularly when you may be lacking in real life experience, however, it is not the only thing that will land you the top paying jobs.

I have landed some excellent corporate teaching positions paying extremely well for the market although I don´t have certification. I do have over 10 years of professional experience in corporate America, a training background , bilingual (extremely helpful if you are teaching elementary learners), and an advanced degree in Education. A corporate background and the ability to interface at all levels of the corporate ladder are also great attributes to have, even if you don´t have the certification.

However, remember, teaching (a language) is challenging work. Be prepared to explain the idiosyncrasies of the English language, have a firm grasp on the grammar rules. If you are lacking the professional experience, by all means get the certification. Just because you can take a picture, doesn´t mean you are a photographer. Just because you speak English natively doesn´t mean that you are automatically a teacher.

With regards to finding teaching jobs, I have gotten all of my jobs through the internet....specifically at infojobs.net. While most jobs are still advertised in papers, there is such a demand that I have more than I can handle through the internet. Apart from the private academies, don´t forget to look at the consulting agencies (consultores) that subcontract English teachers for their corporate clients. However, be prepared for a quick turn around. I have had interviews on one day and found myself with the teaching job the next (and signing the contract an hour before the class). It has happened to me twice so far.

If you are serious about teaching English for a long term job here (not a 3 week stint to pay your trip through Europe), both Academies and consulting agencies will consider you more seriously.

Do take into consideration your interest and ability in teaching adults and children. The teaching techniques are not the same and each present its own set of challenges.

What can you do from the states? Create your online CV at a number of the job sites and LOOK at the postings. About two weeks before you think you will be coming here, start contacting (online) the postings that you have seen. Once you get here you can track down offers in the newspapers!!

Good luck!

SRedW--

Just out of curiosity, which certification do you have for teaching English? TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA?

Do you have an opinion on the online vs. classroom certification programs? I just find it fascinating that there is such a variance in price ($250 - $1500) for the same certificate.

How do you think your certification has helped you? Can you describe some of the teaching positions you have had here in Spain?

I am debating the certification issue. I haven´t gotten certified simply because not having a certificate has not been a barrier for me. However, it doesn´t mean that I am opposed to certification. Would love to hear your perspective...

Thanks,
Chica

It all sounds great, however, I'm not sure if I should get certified in teaching if I can't even communicate to the students in their native tongue. Teaching should be a two-way street and there is major traffic on one of mine.
Besides TEFL, is there absolutely any other route?

I have the same question as Jane26, Does somebody out there have the answer? I am moving to Barcelona by the fall and don't have a lot time, what other options to I have concerning certification?

Hey guys - Chica (an American married to a Spaniard and a full-time Spain resident) teaches in and around Madrid and has written extensively on this subject. Try doing a search for teaching and put Chica where author is asked for. Her info is current and very complete

Puna -