COVID-19 pandemic decreases demand for ESOL teachers
Job opportunities for ESOL teachers are poor as the COVID-19 pandemic has reduced demand for workers. This is because the number of migrants and international students has fallen due to border closures.
In February 2022 the Government announced that 5,000 international students would be able to enter New Zealand from mid-2022. This includes 1,000 students at English Language Schools. This may increase the demand for ESOL teachers.
There is a demand for ESOL teachers in primary, intermediate and secondary schools.
As a result, teacher of English to speakers of other languages (if working in primary, intermediate or secondary school) appears on Immigration New Zealand's Green List. This means the Government is actively encouraging skilled teachers in these roles from overseas to work in New Zealand.
Increase your chances of working as an ESOL teacher
You are more likely to get a job as an ESOL teacher if you have:
- ESOL teaching experience
- recognised TESOL qualifications
- ability in other languages – particularly those of Asian, Pacific or Middle Eastern communities who live in New Zealand
- experience teaching the International English Language Testing System – an English-language test recognised worldwide
- music, sport or outdoor activity skills – for private language schools that also offer these programmes.
Types of employers varied
ESOL teachers may work for:
- primary and secondary schools
- tertiary institutions, such as polytechnics and universities, with English-language foundation courses or academic preparation courses
- private language schools
- not-for-profit organisations that work with refugees and migrants
- workplace training schemes for migrant workers in industries such as horticulture, engineering and construction.
ESOL teachers may also be self-employed and tutor individual clients or groups at community education classes.
