TEFL Travel Guide: France
France is one of Europe’s most charming and culturally rich destinations - and it’s also a fantastic place to start your TEFL career. Whether you’re drawn to the bright lights of Paris, the lavender fields of Provence, or the food scene of Lyon, teaching English in France offers both adventure and professional reward. With its mix of tradition, modernity, and a strong demand for English education, France continues to attract TEFL-certified teachers from around the world.
TEFL Requirements
To teach English in France, most employers will require a recognised TEFL certificate, typically with at least 120 hours of training. This is especially important for those looking to work in private language schools, tutoring agencies, or summer camps.
UK citizens, following Brexit, will need to secure a visa or legal residency to work in France, though there are various pathways to do so, such as through assistant programmes or student visas.
A bachelor’s degree is not always mandatory but can be required for certain structured teaching programmes, such as TAPIF (Teaching Assistant Programme in France).
While you don’t need to speak fluent French, having some basic language skills can be incredibly helpful for navigating daily life and connecting with your students and community.
TEFL Jobs
When it comes to job opportunities, France offers several routes into TEFL. One of the most popular is the TAPIF scheme, where UK and US citizens between the ages of 20 and 35 can work as English teaching assistants in French schools for around 12 hours per week, usually from October to April. It’s a great stepping stone into teaching abroad.
Private language schools are another common choice, with many located in cities like Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Marseille. These schools cater to a range of learners, from children to professionals, and often focus on conversational English, business language, or exam preparation.
Les Petits Bilingues is a language school, but it's not exclusively a private language school. It operates in various settings, including public schools, private schools, and its own dedicated centres. The organisation focuses on teaching English to young learners, with options for different age groups and learning environments.
For those looking for a shorter commitment, summer camps offer seasonal contracts, typically between June and August. These roles often come with accommodation and meals included, making them a great option for students or gap-year travellers.
Private tutoring is also in high demand, especially in urban areas, with families often seeking after-school support for their children. Many teachers charge between €20 and €35 per hour, depending on their experience and location.
Additionally, some TEFL teachers choose to live in France while teaching English online, allowing them to enjoy the lifestyle without relying solely on in-person opportunities.
Life in France
Living in France as a TEFL teacher offers more than just employment; it provides a lifestyle filled with cultural richness, stunning landscapes, and incredible food. The cost of living varies depending on where you’re based. Paris is undeniably expensive, but smaller towns and cities across the south and west of France tend to be more affordable. Monthly rent can range from €500 to €900, and while dining out may cost more, fresh local produce, bread, and cheese are often very reasonably priced.
France’s public transport system is reliable and extensive, with high-speed trains (TGV) making it easy to explore the country on weekends. French culture values work-life balance, with long lunches, generous holidays, and a general appreciation for leisure time. This slower pace of life can be a welcome change for many foreign teachers. Making friends might take a little time, but once you’re in, the friendships tend to be sincere and lasting. Joining local clubs, attending language exchanges, or connecting with expat communities can make the transition smoother.
Teaching English in France is a rewarding way to combine professional growth with personal adventure. Whether you're instructing young learners in a rural school, tutoring business professionals in a bustling city, or logging into online lessons from a countryside café, you'll find the experience enriching on many levels. With the right TEFL certification and a bit of planning, your dream of living and working in France can become a reality.
If you're ready to start your journey, UK-TEFL offers interactive, self-paced online courses that will give you the confidence and certification you need to teach English anywhere in the world, including the heart of Europe.
