No other city captures the spirit of both eastern and western Europe quite like Prague. Sitting in the heart of the continent, the Czech Republic’s capital has long been hailed as one of Europe’s great cultural hubs, and today is home to a historical charm and creative drive that are rivaled by few other cities on the planet. Enrolling in a TEFL course in Prague is the opportunity to get your international education career underway in Central Europe’s most fun, exciting, and culturally enriching city.
TEFL Courses in Prague
Most TEFL courses in Prague require at least 120 hours of in-classroom training, which is the equivalent of a one-month enrollment. During this time you will cover the basics of teaching English as a second language with topics such as reading, writing, and speech, and will also move on to explore more strategic approaches to education such as teaching methodology, classroom management, and assessments.
While most TEFL courses in Prague will cover the same material in these ways, some will also include in the course additional benefits, such as practice teaching in front of a live classroom and lifelong job placement assistance after graduation. These perks can be especially useful while looking for and entering into your first job as an international educator, so be sure to take differing course structures into account while searching for the best-fit TEFL program in Prague.
After completing the minimum 120 hours of training, you will earn your TEFL certificate and have the opportunity to move on and look for work as an ESL teacher anywhere in the world. Prague is an emerging global city where English is growing in importance, so it certainly isn’t a bad idea to use your on-the-ground contacts to start looking for work right then and there!
Life in Prague
Prague is the capital and largest city in the Czech Republic, home to over 2 million residents in the greater metropolitan area. For over 1,000 years, Prague as been a dominant force in continental European affairs, central to the influential reigns of the Holy Roman Empire, Habsburg Monarchy, and Austro-Hungarian Empire, while also serving as a historical beacon of scientific and cultural enlightenment.
Most recently, the non-violent Velvet Revolution of 1989 liberated Prague from Soviet influence, and set the state for its emergence as one of modern Europe’s greatest and most prosperous cities. A rebellious, non-conformist spirit still runs strong in Prague, making it a great destination for aspiring international educators of a similar mindset. The incredible street art up and down the city’s alleyways makes full display of this cultural vivacity.
Some of Prague’s most famous attractions include the Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Wenceslas Square. When you tire of the sightseeing, you can always kick back with a coffee or beer (Prague is famous for both) at one of the many great cafes and bars which dot the cityscape. Then later, if you are the festive type, you might be inclined to check out Prague’s infamous nightlife, regarded as one of the best in Europe. Set your own pace during your TEFL program in Prague!
Costs & Affordability
Most TEFL courses in Prague cost between $1,000 and $2,000 in tuition, excluding additional costs such as transportation, meals, and housing. The good news is that Prague is one of the more affordable cities in Europe, still catching up from its years behind the Iron Curtain. Once you earn your TEFL certificate in Prague, you’ll also have the opportunity to start earning your initial investment back as soon as you graduate, either in Prague or anywhere else in the world!
Accommodation & Visas
Some TEFL programs in Prague will help you secure housing for the initial one-month training period, after which you will be set free to pursue your own accommodations. If your program does not include housing, then your best bet will usually be to look online for a one-month sublet. Some of the most popular neighborhoods in Prague for expats include Letna, Dejvice, and Zizkov, among others.
Because the Czech Republic is a member of the European Union, aspiring educators from many countries will not have to worry about obtaining a visa for the initial one-month TEFL course in Prague (the country allows a stay of up to 90 days before requiring documentation for many foreign nationals). For more specific information about the Czech Republic’s visa policy toward your home nation, check out our Embassy Directory.
Benefits & Challenges
Central City. Prague is the archetypal Central European city, serving for hundreds of years in the heart of the continent as one of the most influential hubs of cultural, political, and economic activity. It’s eastern and western influences shine full to this day.
Timeless Charm. Prague’s historical city center has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site, which along with its many other medieval structures, provides a beautiful backdrop to the city’s modern pulse.
ESL Market. Because the Czech Republic was governed under Soviet influence for so long, many of its older generations especially lack the English-language knowledge that can be such a boon in today’s globalized world. Enter ESL teachers to help get the job done!
Enrolling in a TEFL course in Prague is the first step toward a successful career in international education, and also will offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Europe’s most highly regarded cities. Now make it happen!
