Why is there a demand for English teachers?  Cambodia is now a relatively stable country, and since the UN ceased to be in charge the EFL market for private enterprise has been wide open. Foreign Ministries and government offices are all keen to sign up for private lessons as are the diplomatic corps and their families and even the military. Most positions teaching English in Cambodia are on a volunteer basis, due to Cambodia being a developing nation. This is starting to change, however, and a knowledge of English for Cambodian nationals is becoming a necessity for obtaining a good job.The situation is very similar to that in Vietnam, where jobs are quite well-paid (in comparison to the low cost of living) and work is readily available in the capital with voluntary opportunities elsewhere. The demand for native English teachers is very high. Teaching in Cambodia can be a rewarding experience for both backpackers and more experienced scholars, and is helping to rebuild a country still on the mend after the Khmer Rouge.

How do I go about getting a job? You can't really get work teaching English in Cambodia unless you go there, although it might be possible to contact a few schools by email to let them know you will be coming. The best thing to do is go and drop your CV off at different schools and meet the teachers and administrators there. One of the longest established schools is the Australian Centre for Education or ACE www.acecambodia.org  which employs upwards of 50 teachers with at least a degree and the CELTA  or Trinity TESOL. In addition there are many other commercial institutes like ELT, New World Institute and Home of English in Phnom Penh. Opportunities can also be created in Kampong Sum, Siem Reap and Batambang. TEFL training is also becoming more necessary for foreigners to secure desirable English teaching positions. 

Do I need to learn/speak the language? It is not essential for you to speak the language.

Where do EFL teachers live? Some schools do provide free accommodation either on the school campus, home stay (if in a small town), or private accommodation. Some employers provide free accommodation and utilities to help teachers cope with the cost but offers vary depending on the school. Even if accommodation isn't provided, the cost of living is so low that it is easy to find something suitble in the area you are teaching.

What is the food like? Cambodia is surrounded by Thailand, Laos and Vietnam, so its cuisine takes snatches from its neighbours whilst remaining unique. Major influences on Cambodian food include Indian (curries, galangal root, kaffir limes, shallots), Chinese (stir-fries, soy sauce). Vietnamese (fresh veggies) and the New World (beans, peanuts, sweet potatoes, corn). Naturally, the Thai's have some influence, providing the sweetness and chilli hotness that is also a signature of Cambodian food as well as its protein mainstay: fish (catfish, mudfish and trout). Other seafood often found on the menu include clams, crayfish, shrimp and squid.

What will I do in the evenings, on days off or on my holidays? Take a river cruise along the Tonle Sap from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. It's a great way to laze through Cambodia's wetlands. Go for an elephant ride in Rattanakiri and Mondulkiri.Take a trip along the Gulf of Thailand, for some of Southeast Asia's most unspoiled beaches and pristine waters. You'll eat some of the best seafood of your life here. The water is clear and cool and the surrounding forest is ideal for a picnic. Cambodia is a country of complexity with its strong, Buddhist culture and thriving garment and clothing industry. Working as an English teacher, your presence only adds to the richness of the country as well as the community you will reside in. Everywhere you go, whether it's gliding down the Mekong River to take in the houseboats and villages, or trekking through Bokor National Park, the smell of jasmine will be all around you. Soak it in. 

How much does it cost to travel from the UK? Flights to Cambodia start at £300.

Safe?  It is a relatively stable country, emerging from the shadow of its past and of its neighbours. Political stability means that it is safe and people can feel settled there. 

When is the best time to travel for English teaching jobs? Year round.

Volunteer Placement:

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