Teach English in Malta

With English spoken by almost 90% of the population, Malta might seem like an odd choice for a TEFL destination. English is taught in all schools in Malta. In fact, the Maltese follow the British curriculum and many schools use English as a medium of instruction.

While positions are available in international schools, the majority of TEFL teaching jobs for foreigners are found in language schools, particularly during the summer.

Have you seen Malta?! Who wouldn’t want to teach here?

But for some cherries on top, here are some more reasons to teach English in Maltal:

• Job demand. Malta sees approximately 80,000 international students attending Maltese language schools every year.
• Malta is known for its warm and hospitable environment to tourists and expats alike.
• The beaches alone make this tiny island worth visiting. Sunworshippers rejoice! 

In Malta you’ll find teaching opportunities in language schools or international schools.

St. Julian’s

A vibey hotspot

St Julian’s is where you’ll find most of the tourists. It’s particularly well-known for its nightlife. Seasonal summer jobs are popular here thanks to the high number of international students.

Valletta

A vibrant capital

A tiny capital, Valletta is a walled city filled with museums, palaces and churches. Valletta is home to a number of language schools.

To teach English in Malta, teachers need a teaching permit from the Maltese Education Department. A TEFL qualification is required to apply for this permit.

Teachers need a work permit to teach English in Malta – both EU and non-EU citizens. Once you have received a job offer, your employer will submit your application for a work permit.

You don’t need teaching experience to teach in private language schools, but you do for a position in an international school. 

To teach English in Malta you need an ELT permit, which requires a Level 5 TEFL qualification from a recognised TEFL provider.

Teachers without a degree can teach in language schools in Malta, though teachers with degrees are preferred. International schools require a teaching license, as well as teaching experience.

Yes. You don’t need to be a native speaker of English to teach English in Malta but you will be expected to have a fluent level of English. If your first language is not English you’ll need to prove your level of English with an IELTS or TOEFL test. An education at an English-medium institution is also sufficient evidence.

Here are a few costs you need to consider when starting out in Malta:

Accommodation: First month’s rent and security deposit.

TEFL certification: A TEFL course can cost between $100 and $500, depending on the length and level of the course and the course provider. 

Document fees: Any costs related to certifying and notarising your degree and TEFL certificate.

Flight ticket: Variable. 

Visa application: The cost of a visa is subject to your home country. You can expect to pay between $100 and $150.

Living expenses: You will need one month’s worth of start-up capital of about €750 – €1,000 ($815 – $1,100).

Types of teaching jobs in Malta

Private language schools

There are more than 40 private language schools across the island. Private language schools offer lessons to Young Learners and adults. Lessons take place after school hours or in the evenings or on weekends. These schools are particularly busy during the summer months.

International schools

International schools offer higher salaries but have higher requirements. To teach in an international school teachers need at least a Master’s degree.

Private lessons

Many students in Malta prefer 1:1 lessons with private tutors. For the most part this is organised through a language school, but there is no reason you can’t source your own private students.

Online

Teaching English online is possible for TEFL teachers in Malta to earn extra income.

Other teaching programs in Malta

Summer schools

Summer camps are hugely popular in Malta and a great way to work in this gorgeous country. Every summer loads of European and other students flock to the party vibes of Malta and sign up for summer classes.

For long-term teaching positions in Malta, it’s best to apply for jobs in the country. Schools prefer to interview in-person. Summer posts can easily be found online.

Your teaching salary in Malta will differ based on which teaching route you choose to follow. 

What is the average teaching English salary in Malta?

• The average salary of a TEFL teacher in Malta ranges from €1,250 to €2,500 ($1,350 – $2,700) a month.
• International schools pay upwards of €1,800 ($2,000) a month.

• Private language schools pay €830 – €1,200 ($900 – $1,300) a month.
• For private lessons, TEFL teachers usually charge €10 – €20 ($11 – $22) an hour.

What are the common benefits for teachers in Malta?

Teachers in mainstream schools in Malta can expect:

• Housing assistance
• Travel allowance
• Health insurance

The cost of living in Malta is low in comparison to the United States of America, and by European standards.

What is the cost of living in Malta?

The average monthly cost of living is around €800 ($865). Transport and food are cheap but accommodation is expensive. Sharing accommodation is common for TEFL teachers. 

Here are some of the usual costs of living in Malta:

Accommodation

• A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre: €950 ($1,000) a month
• A one-bedroom apartment outside the city centre: €775 ($840) a month

Utilities

• Electricity, water, and gas: €100 ($110) a month

Food and groceries

• Monthly shop: €275 ($300)  
• Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €15 ($16)

Transport

• Monthly travel pass: €15 ($16) 
• One-way ticket: €2 ($2.10)

Internet 

• Unlimited: €30 ($32)

Entertainment

• Gym, cinema, clubbing: €100 ($110) a month

It’s possible to save money in Malta as a TEFL teacher if you are careful with your budget. Frequenting pubs and bars and eating out in tourist hot spots can see you spend your money lickety split, but if you’re happy to live a simple (and sunny!) life then you should be able to save a bit each month.

• Malta is multi-cultural, with Mediterranean, Arabic and British influences.
• In Malta, relaxation is taken seriously so be prepared for a slow way of life.
• The Mediterranean climate is one of the big drawcards of Malta, making outdoor living a must.
• The crime rate is low, so you’ll feel safe no matter where you are on the islands.

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