What to Expect in Your First Year Teaching English Abroad

Stepping into a classroom for the first time as a teacher is a big deal. Doing it in another country, surrounded by new cultures and unfamiliar languages? That’s next-level. For those beginning their first year teaching English abroad, the journey is typically packed with excitement, challenges, and unforgettable growth.

With the ability to speak English remaining one of the most sought-after skills globally, there's a growing demand for English teachers in countries across Asia, Latin America, Europe, and beyond. Whether you're heading to a high-rise classroom in South Korea, a rural school in Colombia, or a seaside academy in Thailand, one thing’s for sure: your first year will be full of learning—yours just as much as your students’.

This guide will walk you through what to expect in your first year teaching English abroad—highlighting the realities of day-to-day teaching in a foreign country and key tips to help you not just survive but also thrive.

The Reality of Teaching in a Foreign Country

When your classroom comes with culture shock and priceless memories

Let’s be honest: teaching English abroad isn’t all palm trees and Instagram stories (though there might be a few of those, too). When you're a first-year teacher teaching abroad, you quickly realize that lesson plans don’t always go as planned, students don’t always understand your jokes, and cultural missteps are part of the learning curve.

• It’s not just a job. It's a cultural exchange, an opportunity for self-growth, and a chance to shape young minds while growing in ways you never imagined. You might have expectations based on your TEFL course or YouTube travel vlogs, but real classroom life abroad has its own flavor. There will be wins, there will be awkward moments, and yes—there will be times you question your grammar skills mid-sentence.
• Classroom norms can vary from what you're used to. In some cultures, students are quiet and respectful, while in others they’re energetic and informal. You may find yourself expected to play entertainer, disciplinarian, and role model all at once.
• Outside the classroom, you’ll likely face challenges. These might include language barrier, homesickness, and the occasional “what am I doing here?” moments. But you’ll also experience deep connections, unexpected moments of joy, and the kind of cultural immersion most travelers only dream of.

What to expect as a first-year teacher abroad is a mix of structure and spontaneity—some schools will hand you a full curriculum, others will leave it entirely up to you. Either way, you’ll adapt faster than you think. The key is flexibility, curiosity, and a good sense of humor.

Read More About the Challenges of Teaching English Abroad

Here’s What to Expect in Your First Year Teaching English Abroad

Every day is a new adventure when it’s your first time teaching English abroad. Here are a few things to expect:

You Won’t Always Feel Ready—And That’s Okay

No TEFL course can fully prepare you for your first time standing in front of a classroom filled with curious faces. Imposter syndrome is real. But guess what? Most of your students are just excited to meet someone from another country. You’ll grow more confident with every class.

Your Teaching Style Will Evolve

Plot twist: You'll learn more than you teach this year

Maybe you thought you'd be the "fun teacher," but your classroom needs more structure. Or maybe you expected to stick to the textbook, but your students respond better to games and conversations. The first year is all about finding your rhythm and learning what actually works to be an effective teacher.

Culture Shock Hits (Then Fades)

From classroom etiquette to lunchtime habits, cultural differences are everywhere. At first, they can feel overwhelming. But with time, they become second nature, and many will enrich your teaching.

The Hours Might Surprise You

Some teaching gigs involve early mornings and packed schedules, while others offer shorter classes with plenty of downtime. If you’re teaching in a private academy, you might work evenings and weekends. Either way, your time management skills will level up fast.

You’ll Make Language Mistakes Too

Even if you're teaching in English, don’t be surprised if you’re also trying to navigate a new language daily. Misunderstandings will happen (some of them hilarious). Be patient with yourself—you’re a language learner now, too.

6 Tips to Succeed Your First Year as an English Teacher Abroad

You’ve got this! Here are some tips for first-time teachers to help make your experience smoother and more rewarding.

Your new teacher survival kit: Flexibility, markers, and endless patience

1. Be Flexible and Go With the Flow

Things will change—class schedules, lesson topics, school holidays you didn't know existed. Being able to adapt without stressing is a superpower. Flexibility keeps you sane and earns you major respect from local staff.

2. Keep Lessons Simple and Interactive

Don’t overthink it—students, especially beginners, respond best to clear, engaging activities. Use visuals, real-life examples, and movement when possible. A great class doesn’t need to be flashy; it just needs to be clear and fun.

3. Build a Support Network

Whether it’s fellow teachers, expats, or a friendly barista who speaks your language, having a support system makes a world of difference. Share stories, swap advice, and remember you’re not alone. Many first-year teacher and teaching tips, in general, come straight from others who’ve been there.

4. Document the Journey

Keep a journal, start a blog, or just jot down your favorite classroom moments. Teaching English abroad will change you—and you’ll want to remember the growth, the laughs, and even the oddball days.

5. Learn a Bit of the Local Language

Even learning simple greetings and classroom phrases goes a long way. It shows respect, builds rapport with students and locals, and helps you navigate daily life more easily.

Find out what else you need to know before teaching abroad.

6. Take Care of Yourself

Self-care isn’t optional. Being in a new country, teaching full-time, and managing culture shock can be draining. Make time for activities that recharge you—whether that’s hiking, Netflix, or calling home.

Here’s What a First-time Teacher Abroad Had to Say

“When I first went abroad with TravelGrad, I had just graduated with a degree in business and management and was unsure about what job I wanted to commit to.

My experience with TravelGrad inspired my love of teaching. The opportunity to do it abroad was life-changing, so much so that I’m currently completing my PGCE in primary teaching.

I am looking forward to teaching abroad again to learn from other cultures and connect with its people.” - Alumni Interview with Yasmin Hallsworth

Proof that the best teachers are permanent students of the world

Navigate Your First Time Teaching English Abroad with Confidence

What to expect in your first year teaching English abroad is usually far from basic assumptions. It’s not just about grammar lessons and classroom games. It’s about growing into a new version of yourself. It could even be one of the most transformative experiences of your life!

Yes, there will be moments when lesson plans flop, or you are unsure if you're making a difference. But there will also be smiles from students who finally "get it," late-night dinners with new friends, and the incredible feeling of being part of something bigger than yourself.

Teaching English abroad is a journey of discovery—more than a job. Expect the unexpected as a first-time teacher in another country. Laugh at your mistakes and celebrate your wins, both big and small. Your first year abroad might challenge you in ways you never expected. But it will reward you in ways you’ll never forget.