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MOROCCO - TRAVEL GUIDE

Guide to living and working in Morocco

Quick Facts

  • Population: 30,704,000
  • Language:  Arabic, French also widely spoken
  • Capital City: Rabat
  • Religion: Islam is the established state religion of Morocco. Almost the entire population is Sunni-Muslim.
  • Climate: Varies by region. In the South and North, the weather is very hot and dry. In Rabat the climate is mild and sunny throughout much of the year, with temperatures averaging 73°F in summer and 54°F in winter.
  • EFL teacher’s salary (average): freelance - £5.00 - £10.00 per hour

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Why is there a demand for English teachers?  
Although Morocco is a Francophone country, English is increasingly a requirement for entrance to university or high ranking jobs, and there is a growing demand from the business communities of the main cities. Like so many African countries, Morocco has sought to improve the standards of education for its nationals so that almost all teaching schools and universities are now filled by Moroccans. Outside the state system there is a continuing demand for native speakers.

How do I go about getting a job? The Moroccan Ministry of Labour insists that all foreign staff have at least a university degree before they can be eligible for a work permit. A number of commercial language schools employ native English speakers. On applying for EFL jobs, it is generally advisable to send a passport sized photograph along with a CV and possibly copies of degree/EFL certificates. As an EFL teacher in Morocco, you can help school-aged students improve their ability to communicate in English, or teach academic English to young adults studying at universities. There are also teaching opportunities among professionals looking to enhance their career prospects. Moroccan students are arguably some of the best learners; many are willing to make an effort, enjoy participating, and are motivated to succeed. And since many already speak more than one language, learning another is a familiar challenge. There are also numerous summer volunteer projects which are a useful route into securing longer employment.

Do I need to learn/speak the language? It is not essential to speak French,  but just knowing the basics will get you far.

Where do EFL teachers live? If you are able to secure work from abroad, accommodation may be provided as part of the contract. Check with your employer to be sure of what's included.

What is the food like? The taste of Morocco is exotic, full of rich, deep, earthy flavour. It has long been considered one of the most diverse cuisines in the world because of centuries of interaction between Morocco and the outside world. Morocco, unlike most other African countries, produces all the food it needs to feed its people. Its many home-grown fruits and vegetables include oranges, melons, tomatoes, sweet and hot peppers, and potatoes. Five more native products that are especially important in Moroccan cooking are lemons, olives, figs, dates, and almonds. Located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, seafood is plentiful. Beef is not widely found, so meals are usually built around lamb or poultry. Flat, round Moroccan bread is eaten at every meal. The Moroccan national dish is the tajine, a lamb or poultry stew often served with couscous, one of the most common and traditional dishes of Morocco.

What will I do in the evenings, on days off or on my holidays? Experience a climatic moment atop Morocco's picturesque high Atlas Mountains. One of the most popular treks is the ascent of Jebel Toubkal (4,167m/13,671ft), North Africa's highest peak which starts from the idyllic Berber village of Imlil and is built right into the base of the mountain. Let off some steam in a traditional hammam (steam bath), where the tabaya (assistant) will slough away your cares and a layer of skin using traditional savon noir (black soap) and a rough glove, followed by a massage with rejuvenating essential oils. Head boldly into the Sahara Desert as part of a camel caravan. Camp under the stars and enjoy the traditional Moroccan way of life. Storm the battlements of the spectacular desert kasbahs built right into cliff walls lining the Drâa Valley.

Safe? Morocco is a safe place both for tourists and natives alike. You will find the people helpful, charming and genuinely welcoming. Their kindness and generous hospitality will be sure to surprise you.

How much does it cost to travel from the UK? Flights to Marrakech start from £50 one way.. 

When is the best time to travel for English teaching jobs? The best time to get hired is during May-August.

Paid Teaching Placement:

Have a look at our placement in Morocco!