Teaching Jobs in Barcelona, Spain

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7 Teaching Jobs in Barcelona


International TEFL Academy
4.64
28
The TEFL field in Spain is booming, so if you seek to explore new horizons, change your career, or live as a digital nomad in Spain, get TEFL cer...
See All 2 ProgramsGlobal Work & Travel
5
5
Swap routine for tapas after dark, Mediterranean beaches, flamenco nights and weekends exploring Europe. This Teach English in Barcelona experience gives eligible travellers the chance to build a real life in Spain while earning an internationally recognised CertTESOL qualification and preparing for
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
4.68
834
At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservatio
Adelante Abroad
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Teach English in Barcelona while experiencing life in Spain. Adelante Abroad candidates teach English to classes of adults. These internships may include creating lessons, designing learning materials, and developing classroom activities. Depending on the time of year, we may also have opportunities
The TEFL Institute
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Dreaming of life in Spain? Our 180-Hour Ofqual Regulated Level 5 TEFL Diploma can help you gain the skills and qualification needed to teach English in one of Europe's most popular TEFL destinations. Study online from anywhere while learning lesson planning, classroom management, grammar, pronuncia
TEFL Heaven
4.67
3
Take this opportunity to teach abroad and immerse yourself in a vibrant cosmopolitan capital! We provide a guaranteed job placement at one of our trusted partner schools, with a salary ranging from $965 to $1930. Receive extensive support before your departure and benefit from round-the-clock assi
A Guide to Teaching Abroad in Barcelona
Teaching Jobs in Barcelona
Most teaching jobs in Barcelona are focused on teaching English as a Second Language. Spain’s educated population has a significantly lower English proficiency level than most Western European nations, so English teachers are increasingly in demand, since English is becoming more and more important for conducting business internationally. Though some opportunities to teach English in Barcelona are open to anyone, aspiring teachers will find that most schools and academic institutions expect teachers to have a TEFL, TESOL, or other teaching credential or experience.
There are many opportunities to teach in Barcelona at international language academies, as well as teaching placements in local education-related organizations. Other English teaching jobs in Barcelona include positions at private language schools or Spanish companies, who often look for English teachers to boost business English proficiency of employees. Private tutoring is also an option for individuals who want to teach in Barcelona, however it does not offer a very stable salary or predictable schedule.
It is important to note that as opposed to most other regions in Spain, the language of public education in Barcelona is Catalan, a slightly different form of the Spanish language. The use of Catalan often hampers individuals from teaching in Barcelona, as it often creates a more difficult language barrier when teaching subjects other than English, even when teachers are fluent in Spanish. However, most English teaching jobs in Barcelona do not require teachers to speak Catalan, so regardless of your bilingual skill set you should be fine teaching English in Barcelona. Most locals do speak both Spanish and Catalan fluently, but knowing a bit of both will help you greatly in affairs outside the classroom.
Life in Barcelona
The pace of life is quite laid back in Barcelona. Siestas are common in the late afternoon, dinner is not typically eaten until 10:00 p.m., and nights out on the town have a tendency to become early mornings out on the town. The cultural adjustment can be difficult at first, for teachers who are accustomed to a more time-oriented, efficient city life, but most individuals who teach in Barcelona find slowing down to be a refreshing change of pace. Teaching in Barcelona will likely mean teachers are working most of the weekdays and have weekends free to relax and enjoy the lolling Mediterranean lifestyle.
There are plenty of culturally immersive opportunities to engage in while teaching abroad in Barcelona and ways to fill your time spent outside of the classroom. Checking out the many innovative museums, architectural masterpieces (most notably those of Gaudi), shopping areas, sporting events, and music and dance performances are all ways to spend quality time during any teaching job in Barcelona. And when you’re tired of exploring, join the locals by relaxing and hanging out with friends at a beach or local café.
Most Barcelonians get around the city using the comprehensive public transportation system of metros and bus lines. You can get to most places via public transport, once you have mastered navigating the system, but metered taxis are also commonly available if you choose. Barcelona also has a newly introduced system of bicycle sharing, where upon joining you can grab a bicycle from any station spread throughout the city and leave it dropped off at any other station. This is certainly a cool way to get around the city, but Barcelona can be quite hilly in parts, so expect to get a good workout in.
Salaries & Costs
Pay for teaching jobs in Barcelona is typically not stellar, with average earnings around $1,000 to $3,000 a month, which combined with the fairly high cost of living leads to a low amount of saving. Obviously pay for teaching in Barcelona will vary depending on your position and institution, with private schools or organizations typically paying more than language academies or other public institutions. Most individuals who teach in Barcelona will be paid by the hour instead of on a monthly salary too.
Despite rather high living costs, Spain is actually one of the cheaper countries for teaching abroad in Europe when it comes to daily spending. However, since Barcelona is such a popular tourist destination prices can be disproportionately high within the city. Luckily, teachers can easily learn how to shop locally and stay away from tourist areas to save on spending. It is also common for foreign teachers to supplement regular teaching jobs with private tutoring lessons, to increase their monthly earnings.
The bottom line – you will certainly earn enough to get by comfortably while teaching abroad in Barcelona, but do not expect to save up a considerable amount of money.
Accommodations & Visas
Most likely you will want to find an apartment while teaching abroad in Barcelona. Living with roommates will be cheapest, and it is easy enough to find local listings online living with either local Barcelonians or other expats. Single studio apartments are considerably more expensive, but if you choose this route then search in neighborhoods away from the central downtown areas for more affordable options. Some teaching programs in Barcelona will organize group living in a flat for foreign teachers, so take this into account when looking for teaching jobs.
If you are planning to living and teaching in Barcelona for more than 90 days then you will need sponsorship for a work visa to legally stay in Spain. Therefore, your employer or program provider will have to help you to obtain a visa, so they should be informed about your need for a visa early on. Teachers can also locate the nearest consulate in their home country and begin inquiring about the visa process.
GoAbroad Insider Tips
Teaching abroad in the shining cultural gemstone that is Barcelona will be a professionally and personally rewarding experience. The Spaniards live a very laid back and easy going lifestyle, and nowhere can this be enjoyed more fully than in the Catalonian capital of the Mediterranean. Barcelona is a truly beautiful and enriching city, and foreign teachers will be able to explore every part of the city while making a positive impact on the community through education. The adventurous beginnings of a successful international teaching career lie within grasp – so reach out and take the journey to Barcelona.
Read our comprehensive guide on teaching abroad in Spain.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do English teachers get paid in Barcelona?
English teachers in Barcelona earn an average of €1,350 (approximately $1,475) per month. Salaries vary based on factors like the placement, educational background, and qualifications. Many English teaching positions in other EU countries might pay higher, but have the assurance that you’ll still have enough money left to enjoy Barcelona.
Do I need to speak Spanish to teach English in Spain?
You don’t have to speak Spanish to teach English in Spain. But some knowledge would be an asset, especially if you’re planning to live and work long term in the country. Most employers prefer teachers with native or near native proficiency so students are truly motivated to learn English.
Where can I stay while teaching abroad in Barcelona?
It’s not hard to find a place to stay while teaching abroad in Barcelona. The Catalonian capital boasts plenty of unique neighborhoods. La Ribera and Sant Pere feature Old World charm, while El Raval is dotted with restaurants and tapas bars. Guarantee that everything is within walking distance at the Eixample.
Can I teach English in Spain without an EU passport?
Absolutely! You don’t have to be an EU citizen to teach English in Spain, as long as you possess the right visa. You can apply for either a work, student, or working holiday visa. Ask the Spanish embassy in your country which type is applicable for you.
Is it expensive to live in Spain?
The cost of living in Spain is considerably lower than several other countries in the EU. In fact, it’s way more affordable than in the US. You can thrive on €1,000 per month, which already includes basic living expenses. On the other hand, a budget of around €1,700 offers luxuries like travels and shopping.
Latest Program Reviews
HIGHLY recommend volunteering with IVHQ
August 09, 2026by: Raquel Paz Bergia - SpainProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
It was very easy to go through the application process, complete all the steps, and be ready to volunteer in Costa Rica. All the support we received throughout the process made sure that we felt safe, prepared, and were making an impact on the local community. I would highly recommend IVHQ, and hope to do future volunteer missions with them.
An unforgettable experience in Ecuador
August 08, 2026by: Marie-Hélène Lessard - CanadaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I had an amazing experience with International Volunteer HQ in Ecuador. Everything was well organized from the beginning, and I felt supported throughout the entire program. The local team was welcoming, helpful, and always available when needed. I especially appreciated the opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture, meet wonderful people, and contribute through volunteering. It was an unforgettable experience, and I would definitely recommend IVHQ to anyone looking for a meaningful experience abroad.
Arizona Was Never Going to Hold Me Forever
June 11, 2026by: Verushcka V - United StatesProgram: Teach English in Spain | No Degree Required + Job Support
I already had my heart set to get out of this boring desert (Arizona) and I just needed to figure out how and thanks to Shaun who followed up with me and provided me the support and encouragement I needed to make my first move and just go!!! So now I'm booked for September... España here I come!!
Can't wait for my trip!
June 11, 2026by: Bella B - New ZealandProgram: Teach English in Spain | No Degree Required + Job Support
All the staff have been amazing and very helpful for me, they have helped me work through all the different options and helped me with all the application processes! Can't wait for my trip! Dave and Nicole have been especially helpful!
Tai is amazing!!!
June 11, 2026by: Robert R - United StatesProgram: Teach English in Spain | No Degree Required + Job Support
I loved the process. Everyone was so nice. Tai is amazing!!! This was such a pleasure to do. I am so happy that I chose to go with this company to Teach English abroad. I am so excited that I am moving forward with this adventure.
I'm ready to begin my course!
June 11, 2026by: Jacynda J - AustraliaProgram: Teach English in Spain | No Degree Required + Job Support
The initial week where we got to immerse in flamenco dance class, paella cooking class and Spanish Intro classes made the transition smooth, I feel like I've already made strong connections and I'm ready to begin my course!
Teaching in Hua Hin
May 16, 2026by: Marcos Mendez - SpainProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
My experience in Hua Hin teaching children was truly amazing. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and supported by a wonderful team. Special thanks to Hannah Yule, Tukkie Khudseesai, and Noah, the coordinator of my teaching team, who made the experience even more enjoyable and well organized. Teaching the children was incredibly rewarding, and the environment was positive, friendly, and motivating every day. The accommodation provided was very comfortable, and the food was also excellent throughout my stay. Overall, this was a memorable and enriching experience that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in volunteering and teaching in Hua Hin.
Three weeks volunteering in Siem Reap
August 11, 2025by: Olivia Aurora Lamassa - SwitzerlandProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I spent three weeks volunteering at Salariin Kampuchea Learning Center in Siem Reap, where I helped teach English to younger students and supported the development of their social media presence. It was one of the most enriching experiences I’ve ever had. Some days were more challenging than others—adapting to a new environment and finding ways to communicate across cultures. But what I’ll carry with me, more than anything, is the deep sense of connection I felt with the people. I can confidently say I’ve grown and learned so much, and that’s something I’ll always be grateful for. Living and working within the local community gave me a complete perspective shift. I was struck by their warmth and generosity, and the quiet strength with which they face life. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed. The children, the staff, and my host family made me feel included from the start, making it easy to feel at home throughout my time there
The most wholesome experience
March 26, 2025by: Ayshe Z Mercan - United KingdomProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
The programme insured that whilst getting my teaching experience, I learnt loads about the history of the children in this area. It has been the most eye opening experience and I am so grateful to have been part of it, I will be back!! The team were super supportive and ensured we were safe at all times. This was my first time solo travelling and I felt confident to flourish and be adventurous in the beautiful South Africa!

Teaching English in Cartagena Colombia
January 09, 2020by: Luke Psotka - CanadaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I volunteered along with my girlfriend to teach English at Emerging Voices in Cartagena, Colombia from Nov-Dec of 2019. The experience overall was amazing. We got to work with lots of different groups of people, from young children living in a poor neighborhood to teenagers learning skills related to the hospitality industry, to adults whose English was very good, but they just lacked the confidence to use it. I also enjoyed the ability to visit other projects at Emerging Voices such as the project to feed and spend time with the homeless and the sports development project that worked with kids living in a Drug Rehabilitation Centre. One of the highlights was definitely meeting all of the other volunteers. Programs like these bring out great people and we had a ton of fun hanging out with people coming from all over North America. My other highlight was definitely the food! Sophie was our local Colombian chef and she made the most amazing meals every day. I was always excited for mealtime! She also kept the house impeccably clean and even made our beds every day; what an amazing lady! I also enjoyed working with Monica who is the program owner. She is a very inspiring woman and a kind soul. We happened to be there during a transitional time for Emerging Voice so that meant we had lots of different volunteers, but also lots of different coordinators. We had three different teaching coordinators during our 4-week stay. One consistent throughout though was Lao. He worked with the childcare program, but he was the only constant in the volunteer house for the entire time that we were there and he made our experience that much better with his kindness and light-hearted nature. The last thing that I really enjoyed was the location of the volunteer house. It was located in the safe neighborhood of Crespo; it was only a 5-minute walk to the beach and only a 10-minute cab to downtown so it was truly perfect! All in it was an amazing experience and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking to give back and also push themselves a little out of their comfort zone!


Great course!
February 23, 2019by: Cleo Sips - NetherlandsThe CELTA course at Oxford TEFL in Barcelona was amazing. The program is well structured, very useful and interesting. The course is intensive but you get a lot of support from lovely tutors and other teachers. The careers service which the program offers is also really good. I would definitely recommend doing your CELTA course here. It is the perfect way to meet new people in a new city and to improve/develop your teaching skills. All the people at the school are very nice and inspiring and the atmosphere there is very supportive and positive.
Fantastic English teaching course
February 21, 2019by: Peter Turner - United KingdomI completed my CELTA course in December 2018 with Oxford House and I could not sing their praises high enough. Everything from the teachers and facilities to the material and structure was perfect. It is quite an intense course but there is a great sense of togetherness while going through it from both teachers and fellow students. With its central location Oxford House was excellently placed for all students to reach quite easily. I would highly recommend this course to anyone thinking of studying English teaching in Spain.
2 weeks teaching in Cape Town
January 25, 2019by: Ralph Kamar - LebanonProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I volunteered in the Teaching Program with IVHQ in Muizenberg, Cape Town, South Africa for 2 weeks with my girlfriend. For the accommodation, I was placed with 4 other boys in the room where I had my own bed and closet space. A girls room was next to us and each of the boys and girls had separate bathrooms. Also a kitchen and common living room were available. On the weekdays, we were given 3 meals per day from breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The food was carbohydrate heavy and sufficient for the stay as enough food was available for everyone with specific diet requirements cooked accordingly upon request. The housekeeper was very polite as well. For a volunteering program, it was really more than you need and a great place to stay. For the volunteering program, we were placed in Steenberg Primary School assisting a teacher with 30 Grade R kids. The kids were very cute and super fun as they are hyper all the time. We would help them with the class assignment, play with them in the playground, and assess them basic color matching and mathematics numbering exercises. The classroom had the basic amenities needed for the school year. We even left our mark with a painting on the classroom wall! It was an amazing experience and one that we will definitely go through again. A driver from the program picked us up and dropped us off back to the accommodation every school day. He was usually always on time. For the city, there are abundant activities to choose from. We were lucky to have done shark cage diving, a safari, and skydiving as main attractions. Other activities were hiking Table Mountain through the Skeleton Gorge trail, visiting the beautiful city of Cape Town and exploring it, surfing, visiting Boulders Beach where penguins are found and the most South Western point of the African continent in Cape of Good Hope as well as many other activities. This experience is truly one that will be missed and I hope to have a similar one next time!
Hi Ralph, it is great to hear from you and that you really enjoyed your time in South Africa. It is always pleasing to hear that you got along with the children so well and took part on some awesome tourist activities! Thanks for volunteering with IVHQ! Acacia - IVHQ Program Manager.
Amazing time volunteering in Palawan
November 10, 2018by: Colin Jansen - NetherlandsProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I've had an amazing time volunteering with IVHQ (and the green lion) for two weeks in the Philippines. The location is remote (2h from Puerto Princess City), but that adds to the experience of disconnecting completely and helping the local community of Tigman Village. There are a few different programs, and therefore quite some other volunteers - nice to meet people for sure. I've taught English, Maths and Science at the local school in Tigman Village, at grades between 2 - 6. The kids are great; they love your attention and are eager to learn.
Hey Colin, thanks for taking the time to provide your review of the Philippines program. It's awesome to hear you embraced the remoteness of the program and enjoyed disconnecting from the world. I hope you can volunteer with IVHQ again in the future. Sean - IVHQ Program Manager.
Studying for success!
September 26, 2018by: Taylor Cook - United StatesI loved my course at Oxford House! The teachers were friendly, smart and helpful; the courses were informative and prepared me for my own teaching lessons; there were plenty of resources available; the school was in a great neighborhood with plenty of good places to eat, shop and walk around to. My only slight was with my roommates that I was paired with who had less tidy living habits than I did - but my host cleared it up once I brought it to her attention. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Barcelona and have just accepted a position, which we began interviewing for as soon as Corinne sent out our CVs! I would recommend studying in Barcelona and Oxford house in general to anyone that asked.
A good value for money
September 21, 2018by: Jasmine Zhang - ChinaThis course worths every penny I have paid for. I enjoy every day spent there. Firstly, the academy is well located, just around paseo de gracia, although the shopping street has lured me to spend much money on my way to the academy every morning...The center has a lovely garden and basically has everything we needed, although I think more stationeries can be fueled in the office, like glues and tapes. Secondly, the tutors are very friendly, patient and helpful. They are always available to offer avdice. Thirdly, teaching content is well designed. But it would be better if teaching young learners and business can be included in this CELTA course too. If we are asked to pay again for the extra courses, then I guess most people would just skip them. I felt sorry that the teaching young learners' session was cancelled because of insufficient students signed up.
Amazing experience! It was challenging but I learned so much
September 14, 2018by: Reed Boulter - United StatesIf you're searching for a program that will help you to feel confident in the classroom then Oxford TEFL Barcelona is for you! I'm a former Peace Corps Volunteer and I learned more in this 4-week class than I did in my 10-week training program as a volunteer. I had no formal teaching experience going into this program but by the end I felt comfortable and prepared stepping into the classroom. The tutors provide you with a plethora of information and hands-on skills that directly correlate to tools you'll need in the classroom. I will say that if you're choosing this program hoping that it will be cake walk and a 4-week vacation then you're in for a surprise. The word "intensive" isn't in the description by accident but I promise you can do it if you're willing to put in the effort!The tutors are friendly, experienced, knowledgable, and want you to succeed. The staff is honestly amazing! Every week is challenging but nothing they ask of you will be ridiculous. During this 4-week program I felt emotions ranging from anxiety to pure euphoria. I have had a lot of great experiences in my life but this definitely close to one of my best decisions I've ever made :)
Fun & love in Antigua, Guatemala
June 07, 2018by: Shannon V - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I was super nervous before going on my solo adventure to Antigua, Guatemala. However, as soon as I arrived I felt anxiously excited and yet still very peaceful. Everyone involved in the program was nice and welcoming. They set me up in a great home with great people and I really enjoyed my project. I learned so much about myself and really grew as an independent person. I can't wait to go on another trip with IVHQ!



We very much appreciate you sharing this review about your time in Guatemala. It was nice to read that you felt so welcomed on your solo adventure and that you were set up in a great homestay with friendly people! Also, thank you for your suggestions on how we could improve the program, we certainly do our best but love volunteer's insights as this helps us make our programs even better! Once again thank you for the awesome review and just as you can't wait to go on another IVHQ volunteer trip, we can't wait to have you join us again! ^Aydan - IVHQ Guatemala Program Manager
Teaching English
April 04, 2018by: Karin Layton - CanadaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I can not say enough about this experience. The Green Lion organization that I worked with through IVHQ were incredible. The placement was great, small village that was very accepting of foreigners, students that were hard to leave, and our residence was relaxing with incredible food. I would highly recommend both IVHQ and The Green Lion!
Hi Karin, it's great to hear you enjoyed your time in Laos and the true Laotian experience you receive there! We're looking forward to having you return to Laos or maybe one of our other destinations! ^Will - IVHQ Laos Program Manager
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