She Strengthens

Embracing a New Career Path: My Journey as a Freelance English Teacher in Germany

When I made the move to Germany in 2015, I was fortunate to have a remote job with a U.S.-based travel company. However, the part-time nature of the job left me seeking additional income sources. After exploring options, I stumbled upon teaching English as a viable side-hustle.

The Initial Steps

Curiosity about the cost of formal language lessons led me to research local language schools. A brief consultation with one school sparked the idea of teaching English, and I sent an inquiry about their qualification requirements. To my surprise, I was invited for an interview, and soon discovered that language teachers in Germany are often freelancers.

The Freelance Lifestyle

As a freelancer, I have the flexibility to choose my clients, set my schedule, and work with multiple language centers. However, this freedom comes with its own set of challenges, including no paid time off, tax liabilities, and unpredictable work hours.

Getting Certified

To become an English language instructor, I didn’t need a formal certification, but I did require a native or near-native English speaking ability, participation in the language center’s internal training course, and a commitment to acquiring a formal certificate eventually. My professional background, writing proficiency, and ability to communicate effectively made me a suitable candidate.

My Experience So Far

I’ve been teaching English since July 2016 and have earned certificates from modules 1-3 of the Cambridge English Teaching Knowledge Test (TKT). Initially, I taught only a few hours a week, but as I grew dissatisfied with my regular job, I began to pursue teaching as my primary source of income. After consulting with other freelance teachers and researching additional language schools, I finally took the leap and left my day job behind.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring English Teachers

• Research the opportunity in your intended country of residence, as requirements and compensation structures vary greatly.
• Be prepared for a freelance lifestyle, including unpredictable work hours and tax liabilities.
• Certification programs, such as the Cambridge TKT, can be costly, but are essential for establishing credibility as an English language instructor.
• As a freelancer, you’ll need to be proactive in managing your expenses, including travel costs and material expenses.

The Ups and Downs of Teaching English

Teaching English has pushed me out of my comfort zone, forcing me to be more outgoing and engage with new people regularly. While it can be challenging, I’ve found that teaching boosts my overall productivity and provides a welcome break from staring at a computer screen. However, classes aren’t guaranteed, and I need to be flexible and open to new opportunities to ensure a steady income.

In the End

While teaching English wasn’t my initial career goal, I’m grateful for the opportunity to explore this new path. I’ve learned to appreciate the constant introduction to new people, ideas, and opportunities to learn. If you’re considering teaching English, I encourage you to research the opportunity thoroughly and be prepared for a unique and rewarding experience.