Teaching English in Bahrain: How to Get this EFL Gig

One of the official languages of Bahrain is English, which means that there is a need for English to be taught as a second language in the country. As a result there is a need for native English speakers to come to the country to teach English to its citizens. Most of the people that come to Bahrain to teach English are from Egypt, Syria and Jordan. Open positions for English teachers are advertised in professional publications as well as in some national newspaper supplements. The demand for English teachers remains constant and high in Bahrain.

There are a number of places in Bahrain that English teachers can gain employment.

Private schools are numerous throughout Bahrain. Most private schools cater to the growing expatriate population in Bahrain and all lessons are taught in English. There are also private schools aimed at Bahrain citizens where a good English teacher is needed for students. There are also a few French schools in the country that also teach English.

Private language schools are popular in Bahrain with citizens of the country wishing to learn English as well as expats who are not native English speakers. If you wish to work in a private language school you should know that the hours tend to be long and late. Most students at private language schools can only attend class after the work day has ended which is the reason for the long, late hours. Nationally known schools such as Berlitz have branches in Bahrain and hire English teachers.

A lot of English teachers find employment by giving private lessons to people. There are even people that give private lessons on the side as an additional source of income. You should note that the demand is somewhat seasonal for private English tutors though. Around exam time is the most lucrative for private English tutors.

If you are fluent in Arabic as well as English then you will be able to find work as a translator or interpreter in Bahrain. This is usually short term or temporary work though. Most translation work involves legal documents. And translators are mostly needed at seminars and training courses.

You may also be interested in seeking employment with the British Council. They need English teachers for the centers but have stricter qualification requirements that must be met. You will need to have an internationally recognized qualification to teach English, such as an RSA diploma or Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certificate, as well as at least two years of experience to gain a position with them.