Do you speak English well and are you seeking employment as a teacher? If this is you, our article will provide you with information on how to find employment as an English language teacher in Finland, as well as how to travel there and work for prestigious Finnish institutions. Why not read this article through to the end and discover for yourself how you might further your interest in teaching in Finland?
Let’s start with the prerequisites for teaching English in Finland before looking for a job as an English language instructor.
Qualifications To Teach English In Finland
There are four general requirements that you must meet in order to teach English in Finland, but they may vary based on the type of school or student body you choose to work with.
1. You Must Have A Bachelor’s Degree:
A bachelor’s degree in any field is generally required to teach English in Finland, but a degree in education, English language teaching, or a related field can give you a significant advantage and increase your job prospects.
2. Have Any Teaching Certification:
A recognised teaching certification, such as a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults), is frequently a prerequisite for being able to teach English in Finland.
3. English Language Proficiency: English Language Teacher Jobs In Finland
You must exhibit a high degree of fluency in the English language. Taking an English language proficiency exam, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, may be necessary for this.
4. Cultural Awareness:
A knowledge of and appreciation for Finnish culture is beneficial because it allows you to connect with your students and colleagues.
While these are the basic qualifications needed to teach English in Finland, individual schools may have additional requirements. It’s always a good idea to research specific schools and their requirements before applying.
Is There A High Demand For Teachers?
Understanding the job market for English teachers in Finland is crucial. While there is a high demand for English language teachers due to the country’s emphasis on English education, it’s important to research specific regions and institutions to assess the competition and opportunities. This is especially true for universities, colleges, and language centres.
Salary And Benefits Of English Teachers In Finland
English teachers in Finland often receive higher incomes than the national average. Furthermore, many employers provide comprehensive health insurance to teachers and their families. In addition, teachers frequently have access to significant pension plans, which can provide financial security in retirement. Furthermore, Finnish teachers are entitled to paid vacation time. Finally, numerous schools and organisations offer possibilities for professional growth, such as workshops and conferences.
Visa and Work Permit Requirements:
To work legally in Finland as an international English language teacher, you will most likely require a visa and a work permit. The particular requirements vary based on your country and length of stay.
- If your stay is shorter than ninety days: If you are a citizen of a nation free from visa requirements (such as the US, UK, Canada, or Australia), you can normally enter Finland for tourist or business and remain there for up to ninety days without a visa. On arrival, nevertheless, you might have to register with the Finnish Immigration Service.
- You will need to apply for a residence permit if you intend to stay in Finland for longer than ninety days. This usually means that you need to meet certain requirements regarding your qualifications, financial resources, and accommodations, as well as having a work offer from a Finnish firm.
Other Specific Requirements for Work Permits: English Language Teacher Jobs In Finland
- You’ll need a valid job offer from a Finnish employer.
- Your employer must offer you a contract of employment that complies with Finnish labour laws.
- You’ll need to demonstrate that you meet the minimum qualifications for teaching English in Finland, which typically include a bachelor’s degree and a recognized teaching certification.
- You may need to prove that you have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in Finland.
Cost of Living In Finland For Teachers
The average monthly salary for teachers in Finland is 4316 €. Private sector teachers have a salary of 4357 €, teachers employed by the government earn a salary of 4799 €, and Teachers teaching in the public sector which is most of the schools can have a payroll of 4264 €.
Keep in mind that they are average salaries; in reality, a teacher’s pay varies on how long they have been employed, whether they teach in a primary school, high school, university, or another setting, and other factors. However, the following are some rough estimates:
- Primary school teacher: 3000–3800 € / month*
- High school teacher: 3500–4500 € / month*
- Vocational teacher: 3300–4200 € / month*
Online Job Boards and Websites To Find English Teaching Jobs In Finland
These are platforms that enable you to source from the comfort of your home for the jobs of your choice.
- Fasthire
- Teach Away
- ESLbase
- TEFL.com
- CIEE
- Dave’s ESL Cafe
- Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture
- Finnish National Agency for Education
- Educa Finland
Teaching Experience and Challenges: English Language Teacher Jobs In Finland
Teaching English in Finland offers a unique and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Challenges and Rewards for English Teachers in Finland
Teaching English in Finland can be challenging, especially when trying to understand Finnish culture and adapt your teaching style. While most Finns speak English well, some students may struggle. It’s important to be patient and use effective communication techniques. The workload can be demanding, but the support from colleagues and administrators makes it manageable. Despite the challenges, teaching English in Finland is incredibly rewarding, offering opportunities to positively impact students’ lives and experience a unique culture.
Student Culture
- Students Who Are Driven to Learn: In general, Finnish students are driven to learn. They treat their teachers and fellow students with dignity.
- Academic Concentration: Finnish students prioritise their studies and place a high importance on education.
- Silent Classroom Culture: Compared to certain other nations, Finnish classrooms are generally more subdued, emphasising individual work and group discussions over boisterous and disorderly interactions.
Tips For Finding A Job
Although we’ve included a list of online job boards earlier in this article, however, you can also look into Finnish recruitment firms. Making connections with other educators or professionals there could influence everything by giving you insider knowledge about job opportunities. Keep in mind that getting the job is only the first step. Getting ready for interviews is essential if you want to land the job. Your chances of getting recruited might be greatly increased by performing well during the interview.
Conclusion: English Language Teacher Jobs In Finland
Finland offers a unique and rewarding experience for English teachers. But be warned, the job market can be tough, especially in popular cities and institutions. To increase your chances, start your job search early, tailor your applications to specific schools, and connect with other English teachers. With the right preparation and dedication, you can make Finland your teaching home. Good luck!
