Teaching Jobs in Poland

While its borders have fluctuated throughout history, Poland’s national history can be traced back over a millennium to the middle ages. Today Poland is an expansive country with nearly 40 million citizens and the 9th largest land area in Europe, so there are plenty of potential destinations that you can choose from to teach abroad.

Warsaw, the capital and largest city, is one of the most popular locations where to teach abroad in Poland. Although largely destroyed during World War II, Warsaw has rebuilt itself to become one of the most important political and economic forces in Central Europe, with exciting cultural opportunities also abound.

Krakow is another exceedingly popular destination where to teach abroad in Poland. Krakow managed to largely survive the destruction and chaos of war during the 20th century; its extensive gothic, renaissance, and baroque architecture still stands, bringing it acclaim as one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe (Krakow’s historical city center was the first ever place to be protected by UNESCO as a world heritage site).

Other cities where you can teach abroad in Poland include Lodz, Wroclaw, and Poznan. There are many different teaching placements in addition to these available throughout the country, so take some time researching what destinations seem like the most enticing to you!

As a native English speaker, most teachers abroad in Poland are recruited to teach English as a second language. Having just recently emerged from Communist influence, Poland is making a strong push to integrate itself into the global community, and increasing the English fluency of its population is a major goal on this agenda. There are a variety of formats through which you can teach English abroad in Poland, such as at language academies, public schools, or private businesses.

In order to be considered for these positions you are generally expected to have earned certification as an international educator; TEFL, TESOL, and CELTA are all examples of certifications that are recognized to teach abroad in Poland. The best ways to go about looking for a teaching job in Poland are either privately contacting institutions, or else enrolling through a teach abroad program such as those listed on this page.

You can also try to find a job teaching subjects other than English, such as Science or Math, however you will generally be expected to be fluent in Polish if you want to teach abroad in Poland in these areas. Some international schools that use English as the medium of education may prove exception to this rule.

Salaries to teach abroad in Poland vary widely depending on the type of academic institution you are employed by, but generally you can expect to make anywhere between $1,000 - $2,000 per month. The good news is that Poland is a fairly inexpensive country to live abroad in, especially by European standards, so you can plan on living comfortably within your means while teaching abroad here.

Most teachers choose to find their own accommodation near the school where they teach (in some instances your host school or teach abroad program will also help you locate housing). The cost of renting an apartment in Poland will vary depending on where you teach abroad, but you should be able to find comfortable accommodation nonetheless on a teacher’s salary. Living with roommates is also a good idea to help soften the financial burden.

Poland’s visa policy will vary depending on your home country and the amount of time you plan on teaching abroad in the country. Educators from within the European Union will not have to obtain a visa, while usually those coming from outside of Europe will have to apply for a work permit with the endorsement of their host school. 

Expansive Education. Poland has one of the most comprehensive education systems in all of Europe, with compulsory education through adolescence and over 500 universities and other higher learning institutions at the higher level. Not a bad system to be employed in as a teacher abroad!

Road Less Travelled. While many international educators are attracted to the Western European markets, you will discover in Poland what everyone else is missing out on. A beautiful country with a complex history, you will find a new home away from home while you teach abroad in Poland.

Affordability. Poland remains one of the most affordable options in Europe for international educators, but not for long as its economy continues to boom. Come while prices are low and demand is high!