How I got TEFL Certified

I moved to Barcelona lost with no route for a visa in sight. After months of searching, I came across TEFLBarcelona and after meeting with the kind owner I was sold that this was the route for me. Signing up to a TEFL course along with 6 months of Spanish language classes meant I had security in the country under the student visa, cultural immersion with the Spanish lessons, and an open door to endless career possibilities abroad with my new TEFL certificate. This offered me a foundation to my dreams of travelling across the world, making my fantasy a reality. Now, not only could I live in the hotspot city of Barcelona for the year, I could continue on to travel to my other dream destinations with a source of income already lined-up.

TEFL Pathways and Travel

International travel is a dream of many: whether its backpacking across Europe, or luxury wine tourism. Whatever your taste, TEFL opens up the doors to all of it, it’s just about finding the right path for you. TEFL is incredibly flexible: you can set up your own online or in-person tutoring business and scale from there; you can teach on pre-made tutoring sites if you want to work remote without the business side of things; you can find in-person positions in the country of your dreams and make the move. Whatever route you pick, there are always possibilities to scale, grow, explore, travel, and learn.

What can TEFL do for me?

For the ambitious money-makers, countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia lead the pack, offering tax-free monthly salaries between $2,200 and $5,500 for qualified TEFL teachers. South Korea and China aren’t far behind, often bundling free flights and accommodation into the deal, so you can save a serious chunk of your income while you’re out there.

For the explorers, countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Colombia and Morocco are hard to beat. They combine steady demand for TEFL teachers with a low cost of living, rich culture, and easy access to backpacking routes, so you can fund your next adventure while you’re already living it.

For those who are still figuring things out, websites like Cambly, Preply and iTalki allow for you to earn money and practise your teaching before you make the leap of moving abroad.

Where to get started?

There’s something for everyone in TEFL, and TEFLBarcelona offers high-quality, highly-recognised courses in TEFL, Spanish classes and business classes so you can pair your studies with additional skills to propel your career forward. Sign up to get qualified today and break free from the limits of financial anxiety moving abroad.

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With the 90 days ticking down, I scrolled endlessly online, searching for a solution. Everyone told me it was impossible. There was no way to get a visa without enrolling in university or landing a work visa, and work visas are notoriously hard to come by when employers face high fees for hiring and sponsoring foreigners. But I was determined to make it work, one way or another.

Then, one day, I stumbled across TEFLBarcelona — and it had visa options that suited my exact situation. I could enrol in a 6-month Spanish course alongside a one-month, 190-hour TEFL course in Barcelona, giving me 7 months in the city I’d already fallen in love with.

Finding this option felt like a lifeline. Not only would it get me a visa, but I’d also walk away with a qualification that could open new career doors. On top of that, the language classes meant real immersion in the city and a built-in friendship circle — people I’d actually stay in touch with, rather than the usual night-out acquaintances you meet once and never hear from again.

Security, Structure, and a Real Path Forward

What I appreciated most about the courses at TEFLBarcelona was the security they offered. They turned what felt like an impossible dream into something achievable, giving me a solid foundation and legal residency in the process. If you’re wondering how to get a visa in Spain and feeling stuck, a TEFL course in Spain might be the answer you’ve been searching for.

Where I Am Now

After completing my TEFL course and Spanish course, I reached a C1 level of Spanish — essentially fluent — and started working as an online English tutor. That career shift has opened doors for me to live anywhere in the world while setting my own hours, my own rates, and enjoying a level of freedom I hadn’t had before.

Why TEFL Still Matters in the Age of AI

As we move further into a new era of work, TEFL continues to hold its ground in an industry increasingly disrupted by AI. It offers something apps and algorithms can’t replicate: creativity, community, and genuine human connection — the things that keep students actually learning, rather than downloading an app and abandoning it a few months later.

TEFL has also adapted well to the demand for remote work. You can teach fully online, or if you’d rather be hands-on, there are plenty of opportunities at schools, universities, and institutions around the world looking to hire English teachers — many of which come with a guaranteed visa for wherever your teaching journey takes you.

And even if you take the course and later decide teaching isn’t for you, it’s still one of the quickest, most effective ways to qualify for a visa in Spain, and it gives you a solid base to explore other options once you’ve arrived.

Final Thoughts

So if you’re looking to travel, feel lost trying to figure out how to get a visa in Spain, or have a passion for teaching English or wanting to learn Spanish in Spain, TEFLBarcelona has the answers you’re looking for.

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Finding My Niche

I started small, teaching English to Spanish friends in Barcelona. This early experience did wonders for my confidence and helped me build out my skillset. One of these friends needed English for a job opportunity, which pushed me into the niche of business English.

To develop personalised lessons for his needs, I drew on free online resources like the Market Leader and Business Result workbooks (both easy to find as PDFs), focusing especially on sales language and pitching. This friend became my first loyal student, and the six-month deadline he set for himself kept me motivated to deliver real results.

Moving to Online Tutoring Platforms

With this experience under my belt, I applied to online tutoring platforms like Preply and iTalki, using business English as my selling point while still teaching general English to students who wanted it. Students came from all over the world, and as I built up reviews, my profile gained more visibility – creating a kind of snowball effect toward steady bookings.

Don’t Undervalue Yourself Early On

If there’s one piece of advice I’d give anyone starting out, it’s this: don’t work for less than you’re worth.

Platforms like Preply already take a significant cut when you’re starting (commission begins at 33%). So if you’re charging their recommended $10/hour, you’re really only earning around $7/hour. Depending on where you live, that might be workable. But after moving back to the UK, that translated to roughly £5/hour — a fraction of the UK’s minimum wage of just under £13/hour.

Your progress may feel slower than other tutors’ at first, but I’d strongly recommend setting your prices at a rate you’re actually comfortable with from day one, rather than underselling yourself to rack up reviews. If you don’t make this change early, you risk resenting your first students – their rate stays locked in at whatever you originally charged (say, $10), even as your listed price rises, unless you renegotiate. And renegotiating comes with its own risk: losing students who can’t afford the new rate.

Going Independent

Once you’ve built a solid client base and developed real relationships with your students, it’s worth considering a shift to private tutoring outside these platforms. Technically, this isn’t allowed under sites like Preply’s terms – but in practice, as long as you have a way of contacting your students directly, you won’t run into trouble for going independent.

Making this move myself was the best decision I made for my financial success. It let me escape the high commission rates and build a client base made up entirely of loyal, direct students.

Building Toward Freedom

From there, the path is about growth – branching into new markets and niches until you’re earning enough to work as a full-time, self-employed tutor, on your own terms, at your own rates, and on your own schedule.

This kind of freedom is something more people are chasing every day, as digital nomad living and remote work become increasingly suited to modern life. If that’s the kind of freedom you’ve been looking for, it all starts with a TEFL course.

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Moving to Spain to train as an English teacher isn’t just a career move. It’s a full-scale rewiring of how you see yourself and what you think you’re capable of. The classroom techniques matter, sure. But the real education happens in the gaps – on the metro at rush hour, in a tapas bar where your Spanish falters mid-order, in the small victory of finally understanding your landlord’s rapid-fire Catalan.

1. Increased Resilience

Let me be honest: the first few weeks of moving to Spain can be humbling. You’ll get lost. You’ll misunderstand something important. You’ll probably overpay for a SIM card because you nodded along to terms you didn’t fully grasp.

But here’s what happens next. You figure it out. You navigate Spanish bureaucracy — an achievement worthy of its own certificate. You learn which metro line takes you home and which one deposits you somewhere entirely unexpected. You open a bank account in a language you’re still learning. Small wins stack up, and quickly.

Barcelona, in particular, has a way of demanding your participation. It’s not a city that lets you stay passive. The noise, the energy, the packed streets of the Gothic Quarter at midday, the late dinners that don’t start until 10pm — all of it pulls you out of whatever comfort zone you arrived with. This is one of the most underrated parts of taking a TEFL course in Barcelona. You are not only learning how to teach English. You are learning how to trust yourself in a completely unfamiliar environment. There’s a particular kind of confidence that comes from solving real problems in a foreign country, and it doesn’t come from any textbook.

By the end of the course, you’ve built something that doesn’t show up on your CV: a quiet, durable resilience. That feeling doesn’t fade when you leave Spain. It follows you into job interviews, new cities, and difficult conversations. You’ve already proven to yourself that you can adapt. Future challenges start to look more manageable because you have evidence – real, lived evidence – that you’ve navigated harder things.

2. Expanding Empathy and Understanding

There’s a moment that happens to almost everyone who moves abroad. You’re trying to explain something simple, and the words just won’t come. Maybe you’re at a pharmacy trying to describe a headache, or you’re in a café and you’ve blanked on a basic word. You feel exposed. A little foolish. Suddenly, you are the beginner in the room.

That feeling is the most useful teaching tool you’ll ever acquire when it comes to teaching English abroad.

Living in Spain means you experience first-hand what it feels like to communicate across a language barrier. That experience makes you a more empathetic, patient, and perceptive English teacher. You understand that language learning isn’t purely cognitive — it’s emotional. Your future students aren’t just memorising grammar rules. They’re risking embarrassment every time they open their mouths.

Taking a TEFL course in Barcelona places you at a genuine crossroads of cultures and perspectives. The city draws people from everywhere: South America, Northern Europe, Asia, other parts of Spain. Your classmates might include a graphic designer from Berlin, a nurse from Colombia, a recent graduate from Seoul. Conversations tend to go further than you’d expect. If you decide to study Spanish while you’re there (and you really should, because it transforms the whole experience) you’ll know exactly what it feels like to be a beginner again. That vulnerability is uncomfortable and valuable in equal measure. It will shape the kind of English teacher you become.

3. A Fresh Start and a New Sense of Possibility

This one is harder to explain, but it might be the most important shift that comes from moving to Spain for a TEFL course.

When you change your surroundings completely, you start to question assumptions you didn’t even know you were holding. The way you’ve always structured your days. The career path that felt inevitable. The version of your life that seemed fixed.

For many people, a TEFL course abroad represents exactly that: a fresh start. Not in a clichéd, wipe-the-slate-clean way, but in a genuinely practical sense. Teaching English in Spain can lead to a job you love, a language you speak, friendships that span continents, and a more expansive understanding of what your life can actually look like.

Some people finish their TEFL course in Barcelona and stay, picking up teaching work in local language schools or through private tutoring. Others use it as a launchpad, moving on to teach English in Asia, Latin America, or the Middle East. And for plenty of people, it’s simply the experience that proved they could take a leap when it mattered.

If you’ve been feeling stuck, uninspired, or quietly fed up with the same routine, moving to Spain might be less of a risk than staying put. The course gives you a qualification, but the experience gives you perspective – and perspective has a way of changing everything.

Why TEFL Provides The Structure You Need Whilst Moving Abroad

Here’s the practical reality: moving abroad alone can feel chaotic. No routine, no familiar faces, no one expecting you anywhere. A TEFL course in Barcelona changes that equation from the moment you arrive. You land with a purpose — a clear schedule, a cohort of people in the same slightly-overwhelmed boat, and trainers who’ve guided hundreds of people through this exact transition. You have somewhere to be every morning. You have people to eat lunch with, debrief alongside, and explore the city with on weekends.

This structure doesn’t limit the adventure, instead it makes it sustainable. Joining a TEFL course means you step into a supportive learning environment instead of landing in a new country without direction. Someone helps you understand the visa process. The paperwork gets streamlined. You’re not navigating it all alone.

That combination of genuine freedom with a solid foundation is what makes taking a TEFL course in Spain one of the smartest ways to make the move abroad for the first time. You get the independence, the exploration, and the sense of possibility, without the paralysing uncertainty of having no structure around you.

Written by Hannah Welsh

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I didn’t know how that would translate into a career, but I had a quiet intuition that languages would play a role somehow. So I leaned into that. I started learning English young, then Spanish, not because someone told me it was a smart move, but because it felt right. There was something incredibly empowering about understanding more of the world simply by understanding more words.

For a long time, that was enough. I studied, worked, lived a fairly normal life. But the feeling that something else was waiting for me never really went away. It just sat there in the background, patiently.

Everything started to shift when I began seeing stories online from people who had completely changed their lives by teaching English abroad. They weren’t describing perfect lives, but they were describing lives that felt intentional, full of movement, growth, and unexpected turns. I found myself reading those stories late at night, imagining what it would feel like to wake up in a different country, walk into a classroom, and build a life that wasn’t pre-written.

Slowly, that idea stopped being a daydream and became a focus. Teaching English felt like a practical way to combine everything I cared about: languages, people, travel, and meaningful work.

Why I Chose an In-Person TEFL Course in Barcelona

Once I decided to pursue teaching English, I became surprisingly picky. I didn’t want to rush through an online course on my laptop while multitasking and half-paying attention. I wanted to feel prepared when I walked into a classroom. I wanted to know what it actually feels like to manage students, plan lessons, and deal with real situations, not just theoretical ones.

That immediately narrowed my options. I was specifically looking for an in-person TEFL course with observed teaching practice, real students, and proper feedback. Something that would push me, not just reassure me.

Spain had always been in the back of my mind as a place I could see myself living in one day. I loved the language, the culture, the pace of life, and the way daily routines seemed to revolve around people rather than productivity. After a lot of searching and recommendations, I came across TEFL Barcelona, and something clicked almost immediately.

From the moment the course started, it felt serious in the right way. The days were full, the expectations were clear, and the teaching practice was real. Planning lessons, teaching actual students, being observed, receiving feedback, adjusting, and trying again. It wasn’t always comfortable, but it was incredibly rewarding. You could feel yourself improving week by week, and that built a kind of confidence that doesn’t come from reading materials alone.

Outside the classroom, Barcelona quickly became part of the experience. It was impossible not to fall into a rhythm there. Morning coffees, walking everywhere, late dinners, conversations that stretched longer than planned. It didn’t feel like a temporary student phase. It felt like real life.

On weekends, I took full advantage of being in Spain. I travelled as much as I could, mostly by train, hopping from city to city, letting myself get lost, observe, and absorb. Each place felt different, and I loved that Spain allowed for so many versions of life within the same country.

The Train Ride That Changed Everything

One of those trips ended up changing the direction of my life entirely, although I obviously didn’t know it at the time.

I was travelling by train from Málaga to Madrid, sitting next to a Spanish man. We started talking in that natural, unforced way that sometimes happens when two people share a few hours and no expectations. We talked about where we were from, what we were doing, and where we thought we were going next.

I told him about Norway, about moving to Barcelona for the TEFL course, and about my plans for after. At that point, I was convinced Asia was my next destination. Malaysia was high on my list, along with a few other places in Southeast Asia. In my head, that chapter was already written. Finish the course, move to Asia, teach English, and start a completely new life there.

We exchanged details, stayed in touch, and life carried on. Later, I visited the Basque Country, partly out of curiosity and partly because of that connection. That visit quietly changed everything. The Basque Country felt different from anywhere else I had been in Spain. Calmer, grounded, and deeply connected to local culture. It wasn’t flashy or overwhelming. It felt like a place where routines mattered, where teaching could be part of a long-term life, not just a temporary adventure.

Meanwhile, the TEFL course was coming to an end, and suddenly the practical side of things became very real. I had the qualification, the classroom experience, and the confidence to apply for teaching jobs abroad. Opportunities in Asia were there, exactly as I had planned months earlier. But something had shifted.

The idea of leaving Spain no longer felt exciting in the same way. My life had started to grow roots, almost without me noticing. I was falling in love, not just with a person, but with a way of living that felt sustainable and deeply human.

In the end, I stayed.

Today, I teach English at a school in the Basque Country. I live here, I work here, and I built a life that I couldn’t have designed on paper if I had tried. I’m married, settled, and still deeply connected to the reasons I started this journey in the first place: curiosity, growth, and connection.

Looking back, doing a TEFL course in Barcelona didn’t just give me a new career path. It gave me options. It gave me confidence. It placed me in the middle of experiences that allowed life to unfold naturally rather than forcing it into a rigid plan.

I arrived in Barcelona thinking it was a stepping stone toward somewhere else. It turned out to be the place where everything quietly began.

And honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing.

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The TEFL course itself lasted four intensive weeks. From the very first day, it was clear this wouldn’t be a passive or theoretical experience. The training was immersive, demanding, and incredibly practical. Our days were filled with learning teaching methodology, lesson planning, classroom management, grammar analysis, and phonetics — all essential skills for becoming a confident and competent English teacher.

One of the biggest things I learned early on was that teaching English isn’t just about knowing the language well. It’s about knowing how to teach it. I had never fully appreciated how complex English grammar can be until I had to break it down for learners from different linguistic backgrounds. Learning how to anticipate student errors, explain concepts clearly, and adapt lessons on the spot was a challenge — but also one of the most rewarding parts of the course.

A major highlight of the TEFL experience was the teaching practice. Standing in front of real students for the first time was nerve-wracking. No amount of theory quite prepares you for managing a classroom, keeping students engaged, and thinking on your feet all at once. But with the support of experienced trainers and constructive feedback after every lesson, my confidence grew quickly. By the end of the course, I felt genuinely capable of planning and delivering effective lessons on my own.

Beyond the classroom, living in Barcelona added another powerful layer to the experience. The city itself became part of my education. Navigating daily life in a new culture pushed me out of my comfort zone in ways I hadn’t expected. Simple tasks — opening a bank account, ordering food, finding my way around — became lessons in adaptability and communication. Being immersed in a multilingual environment also deepened my empathy for language learners. I understood firsthand how vulnerable it can feel to express yourself in a second language.

The sense of community during the course was another thing I’ll always value. Training alongside people from all over the world created a supportive, motivating environment. We shared ideas, challenges, and small victories, and that sense of connection made the intensity of the course feel manageable and even exciting. Teaching can sometimes feel like a solitary profession, but this experience showed me how important collaboration and shared learning really are.

By the end of the four weeks, earning my TEFL certificate felt like more than just receiving a qualification. It represented resilience, growth, and a new sense of professional direction. I left the course not only with the skills needed to teach English abroad, but also with greater confidence in myself and my ability to adapt to new challenges.

Looking back, moving to Barcelona to complete my TEFL course was one of the most transformative decisions I’ve made. It combined professional training with cultural immersion in a way that accelerated both my teaching ability and my personal development. For anyone considering a TEFL course, I can honestly say it’s not just about becoming an English teacher — it’s about opening doors to new opportunities, new perspectives, and a deeper understanding of both yourself and the world around you.

By Hannah Welsh

The post Moving to Barcelona to Complete My TEFL Course: What I Learned Inside and Outside the Classroom appeared first on TEFL Barcelona - TEFL Spain.

The course was super hands-on, which I loved. We weren’t just stuck in a classroom learning theory, we were actually teaching. I got loads of practice and real feedback, which gave me the confidence to stand in front of a class for real. I remember my first teaching practice, I was sweating buckets, my voice cracked, and I probably said “okay” about 200 times. But I survived it, and every class after that felt easier.

After I finished the course, I got my first teaching job in a little town called Mataró, about 30 minutes from Barcelona. It was quiet, right by the beach, and perfect for getting used to the teaching world. I spent six months there teaching kids and adults, eating way too much tortilla, and learning Spanish the hard way, by trying to order coffee and accidentally asking for a shoe.

Back in the U.S. – A New Chapter in Florida

Now I’m back in the U.S., teaching in a small city near Miami called Hialeah. It’s got a big mix of people and cultures, and I work at a language school where students from all over the world come to learn English. Most of them are from Latin America, places like Colombia, Mexico and Brazil, but we also have students from Italy, France, Korea, Japan and Saudi Arabia. It makes every class different and fun.

Morning Routine

So, what does a typical day look like for me?

I usually wake up around 8:00. I live close to the school, like a 10-minute walk, so I don’t need to rush in the mornings. I’ve got most of my lessons planned the day before, which helps a lot. I’ll have a quick breakfast (usually coffee and toast or fruit), check emails, and go over the plan for the day. If I need to print or photocopy anything at the school, I try to go early, the line there can be insane, haha.

Monday mornings are especially busy because we get new students every week. That means placement tests, a quick orientation, and a lot of nervous smiles. Some students have never been to the U.S. before and are totally overwhelmed. Others are confident and ready to go.

I try to make everyone feel at home. We do icebreakers, talk about hobbies, and I always ask, “What’s your favorite food from your country?” That usually gets people talking. One guy from Argentina once brought in homemade alfajores for the whole class. Instant legend.

Teaching in Action

Classes usually have a maximum of 12 students, which is a great size, enough people for group work, but small enough that no one gets left behind. The school offers different types of courses. Some students take four-hour classes daily, some are in shorter programs, and others go for intensive courses that run morning and afternoon. I usually teach group lessons in the mornings, then switch to private lessons after lunch.

Mornings are usually more structured. I try to keep things active, a mix of grammar, vocabulary games, conversation, and listening. Most students want to improve their speaking, so I give them as many chances to talk as possible. We might do role-plays, debates, or activities where they have to work together to solve a problem. I once did a lesson where students had to plan a dream vacation with a fake budget, we ended up with a group trying to get to Japan on $200. The arguments over hotels and ramen were hilarious.

Lunch Break and Midday Vibes

Around 1:00, we have a lunch break. Sometimes I bring food from home, but honestly, most days I grab something from the bakery down the street, they have these amazing empanadas. There’s a small park nearby too, so if the weather’s nice (which in Florida, it usually is), I’ll sit outside and get some fresh air.

Sometimes, students will invite me to lunch. It’s a great way to connect and practice real conversation. We’ve had some deep chats over arepas and iced coffee, everything from politics to heartbreak to “why does English have so many silent letters?”

Private Lessons in the Afternoon

In the afternoons, I usually do private lessons. These are more relaxed and more focused. One student might be preparing for a visa interview, another might be working on business English, and someone else might just want to improve their pronunciation. I like this part of the day because I get to really tailor the lessons to each student.

Sometimes we do lessons in cafes or walk-and-talks around the neighborhood. It’s not always about textbooks. Real-world English is the goal, and if we can do that over iced tea, even better.

After-Class Activities and Mini Adventures

A couple times a week, I also join the school’s social activities. We often do walking tours around the city or short trips to nearby places like Fort Lauderdale, Key Biscayne, or even the Everglades. One time we got caught in a rainstorm during a boat tour, and half the students were trying to explain “thunderstorm” while screaming and laughing. It was chaotic but unforgettable.

These outings help the students use English in real situations and also help them bond with each other. Plus, it’s fun for me. I love seeing their eyes light up when they experience something new, whether it’s a Cuban sandwich or a jazz night at a local bar.

Wrapping Up the Day

By around 5 or 6 PM, I’m usually wrapping up. Sometimes I have a late private lesson, but most days I’m done by early evening. After work, I like to go for a run or meet up with friends. There’s a big Latin American community here, so there’s always good food and music somewhere.

I also take time to check in on my former students, some still write to me on Instagram or email. I even had one who invited me to her wedding in Brazil (I couldn’t go, but it was super touching).

Love my TEFL life

Teaching English definitely has its ups and downs. Some days are easy, others are tough, like when students are tired, or you’re running on little sleep. But overall, I feel lucky. I get to meet people from around the world, help them reach their goals, and use what I learned in Barcelona every single day.

If you’re thinking of doing a TEFL course and teaching abroad, I say go for it. TEFL Barcelona gave me the training I needed, and more importantly, it gave me the confidence to take the first step. And that one step led to a whole new life I never expected, one full of stories, people, and moments I’ll never forget.

And who knows, maybe one day, you’ll be writing your own “day in the life” story too.

The post A Day in the Life of a TEFL Teacher: Jake’s Story appeared first on TEFL Barcelona - TEFL Spain.

This story covers the path I took: studying at a TEFL course in Barcelona, then working in Croatia for six months, and finally moving to a small city in Italy where I now have a full-time teaching position. I want to share every step, from the fun I had during the course to the lessons I’ve learned in the classroom.

Why I Chose TEFL

I first became interested in teaching English because I saw how important it was for people trying to get better jobs or travel abroad. In Brazil, many students want extra English lessons, yet qualified teachers can be hard to find. I thought about teaching at home, but at the same time, I also wished to see the world. That’s when I realized a TEFL certification would open doors and help me achieve both goals.

I started researching TEFL programs and discovered a course in Barcelona that had great reviews, hands-on practice, and supportive staff. I liked the idea of studying in a city with so much history, culture, and warm weather. I also read about other graduates who had found jobs worldwide after completing their training. That was enough for me: I applied, got accepted by Erwin, and prepared for a new chapter in Spain.

Arriving in Barcelona

My first days in Barcelona felt like stepping into another universe. I had been to large cities before, but Barcelona had a special atmosphere. The buildings showed off amazing architecture, the streets buzzed with life, and the beach was close by. I remember being fascinated by the mix of modern shops and historic landmarks as I walked around. Even grocery shopping was an adventure because I had to learn Spanish names for different foods.

Soon after I settled in, I met my course mates during an orientation session. We were from all over the world – some were from the United States, others from Europe, and a few, like me, had come from South America. We bonded quickly, partly because we were facing the same challenges: living in a new city, learning new teaching methods, and adjusting to life in another language. It was great to be among people with similar goals.

TEFL Course Highlights

The course itself was a blend of theory and practice. We started with lessons on teaching techniques, and classroom management. I realized just how complex the English language can be. Even though I had spoken English for years, seeing it broken down in sessions was a whole new experience. Still, it made me appreciate what learners go through when they face tricky rules and exceptions.

One of the most valuable parts of the program was the observation lessons. We watched experienced teachers lead actual classes, which taught us how to handle real-life situations. We saw how to encourage shy students, give clear instructions, and keep a lesson moving at a comfortable pace. I took lots of notes and found it especially helpful to see how each teacher handled unexpected moments, like a student asking a tricky question or a sudden technical issue with the projector.

My favorite part of the course was collaborating on lesson plans with my classmates. We would sit in small groups, brainstorm topics, and figure out fun ways to make students talk. For instance, we designed role-plays where students pretended to shop at a market or plan a small party. We’d share feedback and pick up tips from each other. Seeing our ideas come to life in practice teaching sessions was both nerve-wracking and exciting.

Barcelona Adventures and Friendships

Outside of class, Barcelona was the perfect place for adventure. My classmates and I explored famous sites like Park Güell and the Sagrada Família on weekends. Some nights, we joined local language exchange events, where we practiced Spanish with locals and then switched to English to help them learn. It was a fun way to make friends beyond our course group.

Food was another highlight. We tried tapas bars, drank fresh fruit juices at the markets, and occasionally cooked together. My favorite spot was a small café near our school where the owner always greeted us. Over time, our group turned into something like a family. We supported each other in lesson planning and shared notes on living in the city. By the end of the course, saying goodbye felt bittersweet. We promised to stay in touch and hoped to visit each other someday in our future teaching destinations.

Teaching in Croatia

Soon after graduation, I landed a six-month position in Croatia. I moved to a coastal town known for its lovely scenery and relaxed way of life. At first, I worried about how the students would respond to a Brazilian teacher, but they welcomed me with open arms. The small language school where I worked had classes of different levels, from beginners to advanced. I especially enjoyed the advanced groups because we could have long conversations about travel, music, and world news.

On weekends, I visited nearby islands or strolled along the waterfront. The pace of life was calmer than in Barcelona, but I liked the change. It allowed me to focus on my lessons and get comfortable in the classroom. My students often asked questions about Brazil, and they were surprised to hear about my experiences in Spain too. That made me realize that teachers learn from students just as much as students learn from teachers.

Settling in Italy

When my contract ended in Croatia, I got a full-time offer at a small city in Italy called Lucca. I jumped at the chance because I’d always heard wonderful things about Italy – its beauty, traditions, and of course, the food. Living in this city felt like stepping back in time. There were cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and friendly neighbors who chatted while walking to the market. The local people were warm and curious about my story, asking why a Brazilian with a Portuguese passport would choose their city to teach English.

My new job was at a local language center. The staff was small, but we supported each other. I had classes of teenagers preparing for university and adults wanting to travel abroad. Creating lessons for such different groups kept me on my toes, but it was very rewarding. I especially loved seeing students grow in confidence. They would start off timid and end up comfortably talking about their favorite hobbies or life goals.

Challenges and Rewards in the Classroom

Teaching in Italy introduced unique classroom moments. Many students had studied English in school but didn’t get much practice speaking. I used role-plays and conversation circles to help break the ice. We also read short news articles together, then shared opinions. It was a great way to show that English is a tool for real communication, not just a subject in a book.

Some days were tough. There were times when students felt discouraged by mistakes. Other days, it was my own energy levels that felt low. But every time I saw a student’s face light up after finally understanding a tricky phrase, I remembered why I chose this path. The best part was watching them apply their skills in real life – perhaps at a local café with English-speaking tourists or during a family vacation abroad. Those moments made every challenge worth it.

Looking Back on Barcelona

Even though I left Barcelona some time ago, I often reflect on how much that course shaped my journey. The observation lessons gave me clear examples of how to build rapport with a class. The lesson-planning sessions taught me how to be creative. And the city itself encouraged me to stay open to new cultures. I still keep in contact with a few friends from that time. We send messages about our teaching victories and laugh about funny classroom incidents.

I think living in Barcelona prepared me for the freedom and uncertainty that come with teaching overseas. I discovered that being flexible is key, and that it’s okay to feel a little lost at first. Each new country has a different rhythm. Adapting to local customs and lifestyles is part of the adventure. Barcelona was my stepping stone, and I’m forever grateful for everything I experienced there.

Future Hopes and Final Thoughts

Now, I’m settled into my Italian life, enjoying my job, and making plans for what comes next. I want to keep teaching, explore more of Europe, and maybe pick up another language. Sometimes I think about returning to Brazil to teach English at an international school or even open a language center of my own. There are many paths, and the best part is knowing I can choose any of them.

If you’re reading this and considering a TEFL course, I hope my story encourages you. The road isn’t always easy, but it’s full of growth and surprise. You’ll meet people from around the world, learn new teaching tricks, and find out more about yourself than you ever expected. My journey took me from Brazil to Barcelona, Croatia, and Italy, and it’s still going strong. I can’t wait to see where teaching English will lead me next.

The post TEFL Stories: From Brazil to the World appeared first on TEFL Barcelona - TEFL Spain.

If you’re considering becoming an English teacher, you might wonder if it’s worth investing time and money in a TEFL course. The short answer: absolutely! Let’s break down why this path is worth exploring and how it can help you achieve your personal and professional goals.

Why Become an English Teacher?

1.- Endless Travel Opportunities One of the biggest attractions of becoming an English teacher is the chance to live and work in different countries. English is the world’s most widely spoken second language, meaning there’s a high demand for teachers in countries like Spain, Japan, South Korea, and many more.

Teaching English abroad gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in new cultures, learn new languages, and explore the world, all while earning a salary.

2.- Flexibility and Freedom Beyond teaching in traditional schools, English teachers have the flexibility to work online. Online teaching has skyrocketed in recent years, with many teachers offering private lessons or working for established platforms from the comfort of their homes.

This flexibility allows teachers to create their own schedules, take on as many students as they want, and enjoy the freedom to work from anywhere with an internet connection.

3.- Making a Real Impact Teaching is one of the most rewarding professions, and teaching English is no exception. You get to help students improve their language skills, which can open doors for them in terms of education, career opportunities, and personal growth. Many English learners are motivated to learn for job promotions, study abroad, or connect with people globally.

As a teacher, you get to be a part of their journey and make a meaningful impact on their lives.

4.- A Growing Demand for English Teachers The demand for qualified English teachers continues to grow. With globalization and international business communication heavily relying on English, more schools, language institutions, and online platforms are hiring TEFL-certified teachers to meet the need.

Whether you’re in a major city or a more remote location, there’s always a need for English teachers, ensuring job security and consistent opportunities.

The Value of TEFL Certification

Now that you understand the perks of teaching English, let’s talk about how a TEFL course can help you get there. TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification is essential for anyone who wants to teach English abroad or online. It equips you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in the classroom.

Here are some reasons why investing in a TEFL course is worth it:

1.- Gain Teaching Skills While you may already be fluent in English, teaching the language is a completely different skill. A TEFL course helps you understand how to create effective lesson plans, manage a classroom, teach grammar, and develop engaging activities for students.

You’ll learn techniques to motivate learners, assess their progress, and provide meaningful feedback.

2.- Hands-On Experience Most reputable TEFL courses include practical teaching components. At TEFL Barcelona, for instance, we offer hands-on teaching practice with real students. This allows you to gain valuable experience and build your confidence before stepping into a full-time teaching role.

Our courses include at least seven hours of face-to-face teaching practice, so you’ll leave feeling ready to take on the classroom.

3.- Internationally Recognized Certification A TEFL certification is recognized worldwide, making it your passport to teaching opportunities across the globe. Whether you want to work in Asia, Europe, or Latin America, a TEFL certificate opens doors to well-paying jobs in various countries.

At TEFL Barcelona, we offer internationally recognized certifications such as the 120-hour TEFL course accredited by Lamar University, the 160-hour Trinity CertTESOL course accredited by Trinity College London, and the 190-hour TQUK Level 5 Award in TESOL.

4.- Job Support Completing a TEFL course doesn’t just give you a certificate—it provides you with access to career support and job placement assistance.

At TEFL Barcelona, we go the extra mile to support our graduates in finding teaching jobs after they complete their courses. Our network of schools, agencies, and private clients around Barcelona ensures that our trainees can quickly secure teaching positions.

5.- Work in Amazing Locations With a TEFL certificate, you can work in beautiful destinations like Spain, Thailand, or Costa Rica. In Spain, for example, English teachers are highly sought after, especially in cities like Barcelona.

By completing a TEFL course with us in Barcelona, you’ll not only get to live in one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, but you’ll also be able to take advantage of the high demand for English teachers in the region.

Why Choose TEFL Barcelona?

TEFL Barcelona offers beginner-friendly courses that are accessible to anyone with a passion for teaching, regardless of prior experience. Our courses are designed to provide personalized support with small class sizes, ensuring you get the attention you need to succeed.

Here’s what makes our courses stand out:

• Small Group Sizes: With a maximum of 12 trainees per class, we provide individual attention to help you develop your teaching skills.
• Practical Experience: Our courses include hands-on teaching practice with real students, giving you the confidence to lead your own classroom.
• Ongoing Career Support: Our alumni enjoy continued access to career guidance and job placement assistance. Whether you want to teach in Spain or another country, we’re here to help you find the perfect job.
• Spanish Visa Assistance: If you’re planning to live in Spain long-term, our TEFL courses can be followed by optional Spanish classes and visa support, helping you transition smoothly into your new life as an English teacher in Spain.

Advantages of Studying in Spain:

• Cultural Immersion: Studying TEFL in Spain allows you to fully immerse yourself in a vibrant, dynamic culture. You’ll experience Spanish traditions, enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle, and even learn Spanish alongside your TEFL training, making it a richer experience.
• Travel Opportunities: Spain is well-connected to other European countries, making it easy to travel during weekends or holidays. Whether it’s exploring the beautiful beaches of the Costa Brava, skiing in the Pyrenees, or hopping over to Italy or France, your time studying in Spain will be packed with adventure.
• High Demand for English Teachers: Spain has a growing demand for English teachers, especially in cities like Barcelona. Studying and earning your TEFL certification in Spain puts you in the perfect position to take advantage of the local job market, with many opportunities to teach both adults and young learners.
• Student Visa Benefits: When you enroll in a TEFL course in Spain, you may qualify for a Spanish Student Visa, which allows you to work part-time while studying. This visa can also be extended if you decide to continue studying or working in Spain after your course.
• Affordable Living Costs: Compared to other European countries, Spain offers a relatively low cost of living, especially for students. Whether it’s enjoying local tapas, finding affordable accommodation, or accessing public transport, Spain is a great place to study without breaking the bank.
• Beautiful Weather and Lifestyle: With its sunny climate, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly people, Spain offers a high quality of life. Studying in Spain means you can enjoy a pleasant environment while focusing on your studies, making your time here as enjoyable as it is educational.

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. Studying a TEFL course is an investment in your future. Whether you want to teach abroad, work online, or simply gain new skills, TEFL certification provides endless opportunities. You’ll have the chance to travel, earn a steady income, and make a real difference in students’ lives. Plus, with TEFL Barcelona’s hands-on approach and career support, you’ll be fully prepared to take on the world of English teaching.

Contact us today! 

The post Is it Worth Studying a TEFL Course? Exploring the Benefits of Teaching English appeared first on TEFL Barcelona - TEFL Spain.