It’s not called bella Italia without good reason. But why teach English in Italy? Incredible cuisine, a history dating back centuries, and welcoming locals set Italy apart from many countries.
Oh, and that’s not the only answer either. Volcanoes, long stretches of coastline, mountain ranges, and lush green hills are practically begging to be explored. Italy has so much to offer and practically dwarfs others by comparison.
And what better way to immerse yourself in the culture than by teaching? If the question, “why should I teach English in Italy?” has been revolving in your head, then look no further than this post, and let the Italy job hunt begin!
17 reasons to teach English in Italy
If you’re dreaming of landscapes like this in your backyard, it’s time to consider teaching in Italy.
There are so many reasons to teach English in Italy. Here are some of our favorites:
1. Cultural immersion
Teaching is the best way to immerse yourself in Italian culture—and as cultures go, you’re in for a treat.
You’ll find a history dating back thousands of years, a cuisine that goes way beyond pizza and gelato, a diverse language, and some of the best drinks you’ll ever taste. Sip an espresso at a quaint café in Verona one week, and then tuck into some nationwide-famous pizza in Naples the next.
2. Language learning
We all know that learning a second language is useful—it’s why we’re teaching in the first place. So when you’re not teaching, why don’t you try your hand at learning? And what better way to start than by learning Italian while living in Italy?
Not only will you get a real sense of personal achievement, you’ll soon see how beneficial it is to speak multiple languages. You’ll be able to connect more deeply with your students and community, and you’ll have more career opportunities open to you.
Once you get your foot in the door, you may find that learning other languages like Spanish comes more easily. Plus, you’ll enjoy your expat life in Italy even more if you can get a basic grasp of the language.
3. Landscapes
Lots of countries are described as “having something to suit everyone.” Well, in the case of Italy, this is certainly true.
You have the Dolomites mountain range in the north, beautiful coastlines along the Italian Riviera, landscapes with a volcano for a backdrop in Sicily and Campania, and the vineyards of Tuscany.
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding how you spend your free time. The country itself is a massive incentive and a solid reason to teach English in Italy.
4. Professional development
Once you’ve got your hands on that TEFL certificate then you can start your career journey with some hands-on experience. Teaching in Italy provides exactly that. You’ll have a chance to gain valuable teaching experience, enhance some transferable skills, and boost your resume with international work.
5. Job opportunities
Italy has lots of job opportunities to choose from if you’re interested in teaching abroad. Language schools, public schools, private tutoring, and corporate training programs are just some of the examples. These options are a great answer to why you should teach English in Italy, as not all countries offer all these opportunities.
6. Financial stability
Why not travel to see even more of Italy with the money you save?
With some countries, teachers will be in a break-even financial situation. That’s not the case with Italy.
Here, you’ll be able to earn a stable, consistent income. In some cases, schools will cover accommodation costs, making saving even easier. You’ll have the financial means to explore the country and, if you’re savvy, money to put aside each month.
7. Affordable domestic travel, plus opportunities to travel Europe
Italy has a well-connected transportation system. Booking trains and buses is relatively simple, which makes exploring the country easy. With your comfortable teacher salary, booking a ticket and traveling around the country won’t put a huge hole in your pocket.
Italy is a diverse country with lots to see and do. Plus, Italy’s location with numerous travel hubs makes it easy to explore neighboring European countries during the holidays.
Take advantage of budget-friendly travel options and discover what else the continent has to offer. For the longer vacation breaks, trips to nearby countries like Croatia, Switzerland, France, Austria, Germany, and Slovenia are a quick, direct flight away.
8. Delicious cuisine
When it comes to cuisine, Italian food is easily one of the best that Europe has to offer. If that's not a good enough answer to why you should teach English in Italy then we don’t know what else is!
Italian cuisine is on a whole other level. That’s probably why you can find countries worldwide trying to replicate it, but let’s be honest. Nothing beats the real thing.
During your time here, you’ll have the best cuisine at your fingertips. And don’t think it’s just pizza and pasta. The pastry game is one to have the French quaking in their boots. Make sure to try brioche, sfogliatella, maritozzo, and tiramisu.
9. Historic wonders
This is the country of the Romans. Need we say more? Across the country you’ll see amphitheaters which have hosted infamous gladiator battles and theatrical masterpieces.
You’ll see sights which inspired the works of Shakespeare in Verona, the streets where Da Vinci and Dante walked in Florence, and a volcano that brought an entire city to ruin in Pompeii. How many countries can boast such a rich, old history? Many places have been labeled as UNESCO heritage sites, too.
10. Work-life balance
Coffee breaks are part of the experience.
In Italy, you won’t be expected to work long hours with lots of unpaid overtime. The work-life balance is a healthy one.
This means that you can spend your free time enjoying Italy rather than recharging your batteries because of an exhausting work week. It’s something to factor in when you think about why you should teach English in Italy, because not all countries respect this balance.
11. Fulfillment
Teaching is a rewarding job. Demanding, but undoubtedly fulfilling. Seeing the growth of your students, and their improvement when it comes to English, is a rewarding experience that cannot adequately be expressed in words.
12. Warm and welcoming locals
Italians are known for being hospitable and welcoming with the stereotype that they treat every stranger like a close friend. This makes all the difference when moving to a new country.
Rather than working at a professional distance, you’ll work alongside people who are just as eager as you are to build a connection. An expat life in Italy will mean that, within a few days, your neighbors will become familiar faces and offer genuines acts of friendliness.
13. Supportive TEFL communities
Italy’s TEFL community is thriving. There are numerous teaching jobs across the country, which means a huge network of teachers to connect with. This is reassuring for anyone moving abroad for the first time and wanting to stay connected with an expat community.
14. Cultural festivals and events
Carnevale di Venezia, Palio di Siena, Infiorata, and Festa della Repubblica are just some of Italy’s most famous festivals. From carnivals to historic race horses and cities decorating their streets with intricate flower carpets, Italy’s festival calendar is a busy one.
And we’re barely scratching the surface. Whichever festival you choose to visit, you’re guaranteed a memorable cultural experience.
15. Innovative teaching techniques
Why teach English in Italy? Because you’ll tap into your creativity and build innovative teaching skills!
Teaching in Italy won’t only be a rewarding experience with an abundance of career progression opportunities. The teaching experience also gives you the chance to get creative.
Rather than following a rigid curriculum as other countries do, Italian schools encourage creative thinking and resourcefulness. Adaptive, flexible, and imaginative teachers will thrive here.
16. Weather
Italy, arguably, sees some of the best weather in Europe. Mild winters and warm summers mean that you won’t be spending your free time stuck indoors while torrential rain pours down outside, or freezing temperatures force you to wrap yourself in a blanket. The Italian climate adds to the country’s appeal—and gives you the perfect excuse to eat your body weight in gelato.
17. Lifelong memories
Teaching English is a memorable experience. You’ll remember the time spent here for years to come. Plus, the friends you make along the way are the type of connections that will last for years.
Talk to our FREE Online Advisor and get matched with 5 teach abroad programs in Italy
3 teach abroad programs in Italy to get you started
We’ve given the reasons to answer your question, “should I teach English in Italy?” (you’re welcome!). Now, let’s move on to some of the many different programs to help you get started on your English teaching journey in Italy:
1. Teach English in Italy for 3 Months with Greenheart Travel
- Why? An English teaching experience with Greenheart Travel is perfect for those still undecided about teaching. The three-month program includes 15 to 18 hours of teaching per week and comes with the bonus of having accommodation covered. Programs take place yearly between the months of January to April and September to December.
- Where? Throughout Italy
- Read Greenheart Travel reviews
2. Teach English in Rome with IVHQ
- Why? Teachers who volunteer with International Volunteer HQ’s Teaching English project will be supporting a local NGO and people from underprivileged backgrounds. Accommodation is included at an eco-friendly lodge near Vatican City, a perfect location. Also, meals and airport pick up are covered.
- Where? Rome
- Read International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] reviews
3. Teach English in Italy as a Camp Counselor
- Why? Teaching as a camp counselor is an immersive two-week experience. No dull lessons here, as you’ll be teaching English through games and activities and sports. This program also provides accommodation and three meals per day.
- Where? Cupra Marittima
- Read International Experience Srl reviews
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Explore Europe and build your career when you teach English in Italy!
There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the culture.
So if you’re currently mulling over the question, “should I teach English in Italy?” then we say—go for it! Your time teaching in Italy will be a memorable one.
Not only will you be teaching using immersive and engaging styles, you’ll also be working in a country where ancient history and culture clash magnificently. It’s a chance to make long-lasting connections with others and to grow professionally. It’s the epitome of la dolce vita.
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