Poland is a hot spot for international business and education in Eastern Europe. If you’re looking for a central location to explore Europe, then Poland might be the perfect opportunity for you. Despite its historical instability, Poland is investing heavily in its education and business sectors. This means that for people wanting to teach English in Poland, there are many exciting opportunities waiting for you so consider teaching ESL in Europe in this amazing country.
Teaching English in Poland
This country is famous for its diverse landscapes and even more diverse architecture. There is a rich culture and history, both ancient and modern in museums, churches, and schools. And ever since joining the European Union in 2004, there is a growing demand to learn English. Importantly, students who want to work in business must pass a government-mandated test. In order to teach English in Poland, you will need a Bachelor’s degree and TEFL certification.
If you are looking for the best that Eastern Europe has to offer, check out this guide for more information on teaching English in Poland. Or, you may want to find out more about teaching English in Hungary, another country in the region.
Teach English in Poland
As an English teacher in Poland, you will find that your day-to-day life changes drastically depending on where you decide to work. Learning English is becoming the norm all over the country, so you will have the option to work in larger cities like Warsaw or Kraków, or the countryside like West Pomerania. Each area of Poland has a unique history and feel to it, down to its buildings, dialects, and food. Make sure to research the area you’re working in before you travel in order to get a feel of the local culture.
The school year in Poland runs from September to June, and on average you will work 20 – 35 hours a week. The average salary for teachers in Poland is about 600 – 1,900 USD per month and the cost of living is quite affordable. There are many reasons you will want to check out Poland instead of other European destinations like the Czech Republic, Spain, or France.
Keep reading to find out the most important details about teaching English in Poland.
Teaching in Poland Requirements
In order to teach English in Poland there strict legal requirements. These requirements can be a little confusing at first, but check out www.eslspeaking.org for more information on the different English teaching certificates that you can get.
Here’s a quick list of requirements to teach in Poland:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Travel documentation
- TEFL/TESOL certification
- CELTA or Trinity certification
CELTA certification is preferred in Poland as it guarantees teaching experience. Also recognized are the DELTA and MA TESOL programs. Although it is not required, it is recommended that you get CELTA certified in Poland, as this makes you a more attractive candidate and also lets you get acquainted.
How to Teach English in Poland with TEFL/TESOL Certification
Types of English Teaching Jobs in Poland
Fortunately, there are many different types of English teaching jobs in Poland. Whether you want to work in the public, private, or business sector you will find many job openings if you look during the right times. Here is a look at the most commonly available positions.
Private Language Schools
Teaching jobs in private schools are usually less structured than in public schools. Depending on the institution, how and what you teach might change, as well as the benefits that come with your employment package. If you want to teach English in Warsaw, make sure to check out these schools as there are more of them. Some schools will care more about finances while others care more about liberal education. Some schools might focus on technology, while others arts or business. In these schools, you have quite a few options to teach for ages, ranging from children to adults. If you’re looking for variety in work, look into teaching English in a Polish private language school.
Public Primary and Secondary Schools
Although they don’t pay as much as private schools, the benefits and work culture in public schools might be more attractive to you. Teachers in public schools work much more closely with a larger and more diverse section of the population. You also get paid holidays and health insurance covered. For many ex-pats, the best part about teaching and traveling is immersing yourself in the culture. A Polish public school is the best option for that.
Business Education
Poland is rapidly developing its business sectors, especially in its larger cities. Many companies are hiring teachers to design or work in already established English language programs. Poland has a large population of adults seeking to upgrade their skills and resumes with the English language. Unfortunately, the pay for these jobs is not as attractive, and benefits are rare.
Language Camps
One of the most fun options you’ll have to teach English in Poland is their language holiday camps. Instruction mainly focuses on spoken English and its importance for the lessons to be fun and engaging. These programs usually only run for a handful of weeks, either in the summer or during holidays. Best yet, your food and accommodations are also covered! While these jobs aren’t the most challenging or high-paying, they are fantastic ways to spend the off-season.
Teaching English in Poland Salary
The average salary for English teachers in Poland is extremely diverse in comparison to other European countries. Depending on the goals of your trip, you might not prioritize a high salary. Or you might want to check out However, you can expect to earn anywhere from 850 – 1,900 USD per month, with the higher salaries being at universities and private schools. Many schools place teachers on a “Contact for Work Performed”, which also includes a housing allowance. Airfare is not usually included in employment packages.
In Warsaw or Krakow you can expect to earn higher salaries as well, ranging from $1,350 – 1,900 USD per month. There is only a salary discrepancy between the two largest cities, where there is a noticeable salary increase compared to small towns. With careful jobhunting, you can find high-paying positions in smaller towns as well. And the best part of rural life is the reduced cost of living. There are organizations like the CETP, which help place teachers in schools in rural Central Europe with guaranteed salaries and benefits.
Cost of Living in Poland
Budgeting is pretty easy in Poland. You will need to pay for your own airfare, but once you’ve arrived, day-to-day living is generally affordable. Because the workweek has fewer than 40 hours, you can supplement your income with private tutoring or business education. The average cost of living is around 800 – 1,000 USD per month, but there are always cost-saving strategies. Living with roommates is a popular way to save money in Warsaw. You can also choose to live in smaller towns where the cost of living is significantly reduced, and often heavily subsidized to garner interest. It’s not uncommon for a teacher in a small town to be able to afford an entire house on their own, which is great if you have pets or dependents.
If you’re looking for more ways to make money while you travel, check out this article about teacher side-hustles you can have as a teacher.
Things to Know When Teaching ESL in Poland
When you are an English teacher in Poland, you will encounter a diverse range of students. From children to adults, learning English is rapidly becoming a necessity as Poland grows its markets. Here is a quick look at what life is like once you decide to teach in Poland.
Classroom and Work Culture
Education is a serious business in Poland because it is seen as the best way to improve quality of life. Even in public schools, classrooms are a respectful environment where students and teachers dress semi-formally. Uniforms are popular in Poland as well. Poles tend to judge a person’s character by their honesty and direct communication, so clear eye contact and a good handshake are expected between colleagues and students. Polish students can be very demanding and eager in classrooms, so make sure you are prepared in your lesson planning.
How to find an English Teaching Job in Poland
When looking for a job, the most important thing to consider is where you want to work. The lifestyle between countryside and city can be very different, even if the pay differences aren’t as extreme. Bigger cities like Warsaw, Krakow, Wroclaw, and the Tri-Area will have the highest density of jobs, so make sure to check these out. If you’re interested in the countryside, there are programs that offer several guarantees for teachers like the CETP. Other than these methods, the best options you have are to check out local Polish jobs boards online and in person. You can also contact schools directly, which makes you stand out from online candidates.
In addition, you have the option to apply for teaching jobs at online ESL schools like Skyeng to teach students in Europe.
ESL jobs Poland
FAQ for ESL in Poland
Have a quick question about how to teach English in Poland? Here are the most commonly asked.
What is the average salary for teaching English in Poland?
On average you can expect to make anywhere between 850 – 1, 900 USD per month, depending on the type of job you pursue. Higher salaries are in the largest cities.
Is teaching English in Poland hard?
Teaching English in Poland is very competitive in the larger cities, and the requirements are more stringent. However, the attitude towards education in Poland can be very refreshing and rewarding.
Can I save money while teaching English in Poland?
Fortunately, it is possible to save money while teaching English in Poland. Some schools will even write a letter to help with payment deferment for student loans. If you live in a larger city, you can use money-saving strategies, or if you live in a small town, you can enjoy a lower cost of living.
Do I need TEFL/TESOL certification to teach English in Poland?
TEFL/TESOL certification is required to teach English in Poland. CELTA certification is also a benefit, but only required for specific institutions. If you want to pursue CELTA jobs, consider getting certified in Poland while you work a more casual contract.
Should I Teach ESL in Poland?
Deciding whether to teach English in Poland is a personal choice that depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:
Interest in Teaching
Are you passionate about teaching English and sharing your language skills with others? Teaching can be a rewarding experience, especially if you enjoy helping others learn and grow.
Cultural Experience
Poland is a country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Teaching English in Poland can provide you with an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, learn the Polish language, and gain a deeper understanding of the country and its people.
Job Opportunities
Poland has a demand for English teachers, particularly in major cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw. By teaching English in Poland, you can gain valuable teaching experience and potentially find employment in language schools, private tutoring, or even public schools.
Work-Life Balance
Consider your work-life balance preferences. Teaching English may involve planning lessons, grading assignments, and interacting with students outside of regular hours. Make sure you are comfortable with the workload and are prepared for the responsibilities that come with teaching.
Language Barrier
While many Polish students have a good command of English, the overall level of English proficiency in the country may vary. Depending on the specific location and the type of students you teach, you may encounter communication challenges, especially if you do not speak Polish. However, this can also be an opportunity for personal and professional growth as you navigate cultural and linguistic differences.
Financial Considerations
Research the average salaries for English teachers in Poland and consider the cost of living in the cities or areas you are interested in. While teaching English in Poland can provide a decent income, it’s essential to evaluate your financial needs and ensure that the compensation aligns with your expectations.
Personal Goals and Adventure
Teaching English abroad can be an exciting adventure that allows you to step out of your comfort zone, develop new skills, and broaden your horizons. If you have a sense of adventure and a desire to explore new cultures, teaching in Poland could be a fulfilling experience.
Join the Conversation to Teach English in Poland
What are your thoughts about teaching English in this amazing country? Is it the right option for you, or are you looking for a high-paying European destination like Sweden? If the climate and culture are what interests you, Madrid is an amazing place for teachers to practice their craft.
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