The TEFL sector in Ireland has expanded dramatically in recent years. With affordable flights to the country, and its romantic and historic charm, Ireland has become a popular destination for large groups of students from Europe, Asia and nations even further afield. Visiting the country all year round, such groups keep language schools in Dublin, Galway and Cork busy from January to December, with new schools opening to keep up with demand.

Such language schools operate under the Irish Department of Education and Skills, meaning that a strong TEFL qualification is always required. A degree is also a necessity, though experience is not always specified, so it is worth arranging an interview and highlighting your enthusiasm, even if this is your first role.

During summer periods it is likely that your classes will consist mainly of younger students. Delighted to have the opportunity to learn English in a such a unique location, you can be assured of enthusiasm and interest for your classes. At other times of the year your classes may vary between general and business English, both offering great experience for those who are thinking of future positions further from home.

TEFL salaries within Ireland are not highly competitive, and it should be noted that living costs in Ireland can vary. Inner-city accommodation may stretch your earnings and require you to find private students, which of course may be difficult, though not impossible. Foreigners living and working in Ireland often look for private ESL teachers to improve their grasp of the language or to teach their children.

There are, of course, obvious benefits to finding TEFL jobs in Ireland. No visa is required for EU nationals, and flights, as mentioned, are relatively cheap. For first-time teachers, the lack of a language barrier with faculty members or local citizens mean that you can focus all your efforts on improving your teaching skills. Resources available are of the highest standard, with materials constantly at hand to make your classes stimulating and exciting. Jobs are also currently plentiful, with positions mostly advertised at the beginning of the academic year.

The final benefit to be considered is that, while teaching abroad will offer you the chance to interact with one new culture, TEFL jobs in Ireland can present you with the opportunity to teach people from a host of different cultures from Europe, Asia and beyond.

In summary, though the salary for EFL teachers in Ireland is not high, you will be earning enough to be able to appreciate this magical island country while also interacting with many new cultures from around the world.