Live and work in Russia teaching English as a foreign language.
Teachers in Russia will often supplement their income with freelance tutoring work, which can be lucrative. Experience working with children or business experience will set you up well for finding work, but even if you're just starting out there are opportunities out there.
Be aware that there are schools out there that attempt to hire teachers without the correct paperwork. In order to work in Russia you need an employer to sponsor your visa, so make sure that everything is done by the book. Teachers working illegally are in a vulnerable position - make sure to read our post about TEFL scams and bad employers to get clued up.
When looking at TEFL jobs in Russia, always check that the school can provide the correct visa to invite a teacher to work for them, and also check whether the salary is gross or net. Working for a large chain company (such as EF or Language Link) is often preferable for newer teachers – while wages might be lower, you know it’s a professional operation with a proper visa as well as academic support, and a good introduction into the country. Don’t just look at salary, either – perks such as free accommodation, professional development, favourable working hours, and flight reimbursement can really seal the deal.
Recruitment Agency Duke and Duchess International hires tutors, nannies and governesses. Positions vary. A part-time TEFL tutor might earn 3,000 – 4,000 roubles per 50-minute class, and may require a CELTA/PGCE.
EF English First are a major global TEFL employer, with Russia being one of their most popular areas, where they have around 35 schools. 40 hours a week (28 teaching hours) teaching adults and kids. You need a TEFL, degree and one year of experience, minimum age 22 years. 9 or 12-month contracts, 65,000 roubles per month, and flight allowance. Foreign Language Centre Reward hires TEFL qualified teachers for 8 or 12-month contracts. Free furnished apartment, flight reimbursement, salary negotiable. Geovisions places English speakers with a Russia family for up to three months. Conversational English for around 15 hours a week in exchange for a private bedroom, three meals a day, and time to explore the country. The fee to take part is $1,429. Glory School hires TEFL teachers of native ability, experience preferred. 1-year contracts or part-time work, $20 per hour.Teach with International House in Moscow – you need a TEFL qualification, degree, and preferably two years of experience. 6 or 9-month contracts, up to 50,000 roubles per month for 30 hours per week or 40,000 roubles for 24 hours per week. Shared accommodation, airfare reimbursement, and other perks.
Little Angels Kindergarten caters to children aged 16 months to 7 years. The bilingual environment has optional French and German lessons, too. You need kindergarten experience or a qualification in early childhood education, plus a TEFL and teaching experience. 1-year contracts, salary from $1,500.
Serendipity offers 9 to 11-month contracts to American applicants with a degree. Positions start in August, annual applicants close on April 1 st . Room and board with a Russian family, stipend, weekly Russian lessons - applicants pay their own air fare and visa fees.Visit the TEFL Org Job Centre to see our latest listings of job opportunities in Russia.