Do you have a passion for the English language and love helping others learn? Are you looking for a flexible, rewarding career that allows you to work from home or travel the world? If so, becoming an online English teacher might be the perfect fit for you!
Online English teaching is a rapidly growing profession that allows South Africans to connect with students across the globe. Whether you want to teach conversational English or formal grammar and writing, this career offers incredible opportunities to make a difference while earning a stable income.
To become an online English teacher, you need to meet certain educational and certification requirements, have access to reliable technology, and choose a platform that suits your goals.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become an online English teacher as a South African.
Table of Contents
Before we dive in, let’s take a look at what an online English teacher actually does.
What Does an Online English Teacher Do?
An online English teacher is responsible for teaching students the English language through virtual platforms.
Teachers provide lessons in areas such as:
- Conversational English
- Business English
- Grammar and vocabulary
- Reading, writing, and pronunciation
They use video conferencing tools, digital learning resources, and interactive methods to help students improve their English proficiency. Teachers may work one-on-one with learners or in virtual classrooms with students of varying ages, abilities, and cultural backgrounds.
Where Does an Online English Teacher Work?
Online English teachers work remotely from any location with a stable internet connection. This flexibility allows you to teach from:
- Your home office
- Co-working spaces
- Coffee shops with reliable Wi-Fi
- Anywhere in the world while traveling
Many teachers work for online platforms, private tutoring companies, or freelance as independent contractors.
What Are the Requirements to Be an Online English Teacher?
To start teaching English online, you need to meet the following basic requirements:
- A matric certificate (National Senior Certificate) or equivalent.
- A reliable computer or laptop with a webcam and microphone.
- Stable internet connection (minimum speed of 10 Mbps recommended).
- Proficiency in spoken and written English (native or near-native level).
Some platforms may also require you to have a bachelor’s degree (any field), although this is not always mandatory.
What Qualifications Do I Need to Teach English Online?
The most recognised qualification to teach English online is a TEFL certificate (Teaching English as a Foreign Language). Other options include TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults).
While all three prepare you to teach English, they differ in focus, audience, and recognition. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Feature | TEFL | TESOL | CELTA |
Target Audience | Non-native speakers abroad | Non-native speakers globally | Non-native adult learners |
Recognition | Globally recognised | Globally recognised | Prestigious (Cambridge-accredited) |
Duration | 120+ hours | 120+ hours | 4–5 weeks full-time |
Cost | Affordable | Affordable | Expensive |
Focus | Practical teaching strategies | Broader teaching methodologies | Intensive classroom experience |
Flexibility | Online/In-person options | Online/In-person options | Primarily in-person |
Job Opportunities | Online and abroad | Online, abroad, and locally | High-end institutions, adult-focused |
Best For | Beginners and online teachers | Versatile teaching roles | Competitive or high-prestige roles |
How Long Does it Take to Become an Online English Teacher?
The time it takes to become an online English teacher depends on the route you choose:
- TEFL Certification: Completing a 120-hour TEFL course typically takes 4-6 weeks if done full-time. Part-time study may take 2-3 months.
- Bachelor’s Degree Route: If a degree is required, this can take 3-4 years of study.
Once certified, you can apply for jobs on online teaching platforms and start working immediately.
What Skills Do I Need to Become an Online English Teacher?
Teaching English online requires a combination of interpersonal, technical, and organisational skills. Key skills include:
- Communication: Clear and effective verbal and written communication is essential.
- Patience: Working with students of varying abilities and ages requires a calm, understanding approach.
- Adaptability: Adjusting lessons to suit different learning styles and cultural backgrounds.
- Technical proficiency: Navigating online platforms, video conferencing tools, and digital resources.
- Time management: Scheduling and managing lessons efficiently, especially across time zones.
- Creativity: Making lessons interactive and engaging using props, games, and online tools.
Good teaching is about building a positive, encouraging relationship with students while maintaining professionalism.
Where Can I Get TEFL Certification in South Africa?
There are many reputable organisations where South Africans can obtain a TEFL certificate, including:
Many of these institutions offer online TEFL courses, allowing you to study at your own pace and from the comfort of your home.
How to Get a TEFL Certificate
Getting a TEFL certificate in South Africa involves several steps. Here’s a quick guide to get you started:
Choose the Right TEFL Course
There are many TEFL courses available in South Africa. Consider these factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the course is accredited by a recognised body (e.g., ACCET, Cambridge, or Trinity).
- Course Length: Most employers require a minimum of 120 hours of training.
- Flexibility: Decide if you prefer online, in-person, or blended courses.
- Specialisations: Some courses offer specialised modules for teaching young learners, business English, or online teaching.
Compare TEFL Course Providers in South Africa
When it comes to TEFL course providers, there are plenty to choose from. Here are some popular options:
- The TEFL Academy
- Offers both online and classroom-based courses.
- Accredited by DEAC and AQC.
- i-to-i TEFL
- Flexible, fully online, and accredited.
- Offers practical teaching experience.
- Global TEFL South Africa
- Classroom-based courses with hands-on teaching practice.
- Bay Language Institute
- Located in Port Elizabeth, it combines classroom instruction with practical sessions.
Enroll in a Course
Once you’ve chosen a course:
- Register Online: Most providers allow you to register online.
- Prepare Documentation: You might need a valid ID, payment proof, and a high school certificate or equivalent.
- Pay the Fees: Course fees typically range from R3,000 to R15,000, depending on the provider and course type.
Complete the Training
During the course, you will:
- Learn teaching methodologies and classroom management.
- Develop lesson planning and material creation skills.
- Practice teaching through simulations or real-life classrooms.
Explore Job Opportunities
Once you’ve received your TEFL certificate, it’s time to search for an English teaching job. Although it’s tempting to explore your online opportunities, there are also options for teachers who would like to travel while pursuing their career. Here are some options you may consider exploring once you are TEFL certified:
- Teach Abroad: Popular destinations include China, South Korea, Thailand, and Europe.
- Teach Online: Platforms like The Really Great Teacher Company, iTutorGroup, and Preply hire South African TEFL-certified teachers.
- Teach Locally: Language schools and private institutions in South Africa also hire TEFL-certified individuals.
Tip: Look on career opportunity websites like Teacher Record to find online English teaching jobs as a South African.
Fund Your Studies With Fundi
If you’re aspiring to become an online English teacher in South Africa and need funding for your studies, Fundi is here to help!
Fundi offers students the financial support they need to cover all educational expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, technical devices and more.
Curious to see if you qualify for a Fundi study loan? Try out the Fundi Loan Calculator and start your educational journey today.
