Are you ready to level up your teaching career while immersing yourself in the vibrant heart of Spain? Madrid, a city where the sun-kissed streets beckon you to explore, offers a unique opportunity to elevate your teaching journey to new heights.
Rise Higher in Your Career: Madrid’s thriving international community and diverse teaching opportunities make it the perfect destination for educators looking to broaden their horizons. Whether you’re an experienced teacher or just starting, Madrid provides the ideal backdrop to develop your skills and make a meaningful impact on students from around the world.
Watch Your Worries Fade Away: Madrid’s warm Mediterranean climate and its culture of enjoying life to the fullest create an atmosphere where stress and worries naturally drop away. Say goodbye to the daily grind, and hello to a more relaxed and balanced lifestyle.
Fall in Love with the Culture: Dive deep into Madrid’s rich history, art, and gastronomy. From exploring the Prado Museum to savoring authentic Spanish cuisine in charming local eateries, every moment is a chance to immerse yourself deeper in the local culture.
Embrace Calm and Adventure: Madrid’s parks, like Retiro Park, offer serene oases where you can escape the hustle and bustle, finding tranquility in the heart of the city. Meanwhile, your adventurous spirit can roam free as you discover hidden gems in the city’s winding streets.
Rest Easy: In Madrid, even the act of sleeping becomes a delightful experience. Whether you’re unwinding in a cozy Spanish-style apartment or relaxing in a boutique hotel, you’ll find that Madrid knows how to provide a good night’s sleep.
Remember, in face the harder you try, the more impossible it becomes. So why not let Madrid take the lead? Let go, embrace the adventure, and watch your teaching career and personal life flourish in this dynamic and captivating city.
Don’t miss your chance to teach, travel, and thrive in Madrid. Your next great adventure awaits! Here is advice from experienced educators about teaching in Spain:
As numerous fresh English assistants embark on their positions this week, I wanted to impart some wisdom derived from my three-year tenure in their shoes. While these insights are tailored primarily for English assistants in Spain, they can be broadly applicable to teaching programs worldwide.
- Embrace it as a Legitimate Occupation: While some may perceive this role as less conventional, it’s essential to treat it with professionalism and dedication. Punctuality, adherence to rules, and a genuine commitment to your position are paramount. While Spain offers a plethora of opportunities for exploration and socializing, remember that you’ve signed up as a teaching assistant, so approach your responsibilities with sincerity.
- Clarify Your Classroom Role: Take the initiative to understand your role in the classroom during the initial school days. Forge connections with your fellow educators and collaborate effectively. Engage in open discussions about your role’s expectations. Will you be co-teaching, planning activities, or following predefined curriculum? Input from both you and your teacher can shape your classroom role.
- Expect Variability in Teacher Attitudes: Recognize that not all educators may readily embrace the idea of English teaching assistants. Economic hardships, including budget constraints and wage freezes, have affected various sectors, including education. Some teachers may perceive the allocation of funds for English assistants as imprudent. While many appreciate your presence, a few may treat you poorly due to differing viewpoints. Try not to take it personally.
- Establish Boundaries Early: Each year, English assistants may find themselves facing challenges, such as being overburdened with responsibilities or left alone in the classroom in violation of program guidelines. Communicate your discomfort promptly. Initiate discussions with teachers, escalate concerns to school coordinators, and, if necessary, bring issues to your program’s directors. Upholding boundaries is essential for a productive experience.
- Know It’s Okay to Walk Away: Your placement school significantly shapes your experience in Spain. If your workplace becomes a source of dread, it might be time to consider a change. While striving to resolve issues is commendable, your emotional well-being takes precedence. If your work situation negatively impacts you, don’t hesitate to prioritize your peace of mind. While completing your contract is ideal, it should never come at the expense of your mental health.
In the realm of English assistance programs, adaptability, communication, and self-care are pivotal. Approach your role with professionalism, flexibility, and resilience, and remember that your well-being is of utmost importance. Sign up for TESOL certification to teach English in Madrid.
