The past decade has seen Vietnam’s economy boom, giving way to a greater need for its citizens to master English. With this has come a surge in the number of teaching positions available to both native and non-native English speakers – many of which offer very attractive packages. The promise of good wages, a healthy work life balance and year-round sunshine offer great appeal for students and graduates looking for something to make them to stand out from the crowd. But that’s not all it has to offer. Here’s why should you teach English in Vietnam.
The Salary
We know it’s important, so we’ll get right down to business. ESL teachers in Vietnam can expect to be very well compensated, whichever part of the country they work in. Full-time teaching positions in popular cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer between $1,000 – $3,000 per month for around 25 teaching hours per week. It’s easy to top this up with additional part-time hours, paying $17 – $20 per hour. Given the low cost of living in even the largest cities, this is an attractive offer that will allow you to spend, save and enjoy your time in Vietnam.
Low cost of Living
Vietnam is a very affordable place to live. Your English teaching salary will go a long way here, allowing you to live any kind of lifestyle – however extravagant. Everything from rent to mobile phone plans is very affordable, especially when compared to the average salary of an English teacher. This allows you plenty of opportunity to enjoy the best of Vietnam, both during and outside of the semester.
Holidays
ESL teachers in Vietnam benefit from several breaks throughout the school year. Varying in duration, they offer the perfect chance to relax or venture outside of your city. Aside from the 2-month long summer vacation, the school semester is broken up by two half terms breaks, a Christmas holiday and eight other festivals.
Vietnam is a nation steeped in tradition, meaning teachers can enjoy several holidays for occasions such as Vietnamese New Year, Hung Kings Commemoration, Reunification, National and Labor Day. Not only does this offer you the chance to explore, but also the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Travel
If travel is on your agenda, you’re in the right place. There really is no better place than Vietnam. Convenient inter-city travel and affordable accommodation allow you to make the most of your time and money exploring all the country has to offer. Whether you’re based in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll have easy access to some amazing destinations. Whether you want to enjoy rice terraces, take a trip around UNESCO site Halong Bay, run across sand dunes or explore the Mekong Delta, Vietnam will not disappoint. In fact, there’s so much to do here that you might find yourself extending your trip just so you can make the most of it.
The People
Vietnamese students have a very different attitude towards school than we’re used to in the west. You’ll find that they are very eager to learn and willing to obey their teachers. They look forward to classes and are often keen to improve their English, understanding the importance it plays for them to succeed. Vietnamese students start learning English from a young age, meaning they typically speak to a very good level. So, by the time they reach middle or high school age, you can hold a good conversation with them and build a rewarding relationship that makes an impact on both you and them.
The Vietnamese are extremely welcoming and friendly, so expect to be well looked after by your friends, colleagues and even students. You’ll find it easy to make friends with locals, who are often very keen to learn about your culture and share their own.
Opportunities
With a growing need for English tuition comes an increase in the number of options you have on where you can teach. Students of all ages want to improve their English skills, so you have the chance to teach at a public school, a private language center or even tutor business people on the side of your full-time position. Whatever you’re looking to achieve, the growing market in Vietnam can help you get there.
What’s more, with Vietnam’s growing world status and regional important, there’s no doubt that in several years there will be a need for a workforce that understands the culture. By taking the plunge to work there now, you’ll set yourself in good stead to stand out in an ever increasingly competitive job market.
Community
By now, you’re probably not surprised to discover that Vietnam is a very popular expat destination. Anyone who chooses to teach English here can expect to join a welcoming expat community formed of people from around the world. The friends you’ll make here will be some of the best.
There’s no doubt that Vietnam is a fantastic TEFL destination. Between the high salaries, low cost of living and abundant travel opportunities, it’s a wonder you’re not there already!
Are you ready to start your Vietnam teaching adventure? Find out more about our opportunities in Vietnam or discover how you can secure a teaching position in this wonderfully diverse country.
