Job Discussion Forums

Dancebiscuits · Joined: 03 Dec 2012 Posts: 63

As I'm writing this, the polls are more or less even. So it's becoming terrifyingly feasible that the UK might actually leave the EU.

The terms of exit haven't yet been negotiated, but if the UK did leave (noooo!) it's likely to end the right to free movement between the UK and EU - that's almost the whole point of the referendum for many people.

So what will happen to the ESL market in Europe?
Will schools have to start sponsoring UK citizens' visas (fat chance, many can hardly summon up a living wage for their staff)?
Will the number of candidates for each role drop dramatically, and will that force schools to pay more for those eligible (ie. those with dual citizenship)?
Will there be some special agreement?
Will there be a new class of visa just for teachers, and will it require a certain type of qualification?

I know none of us have the answers, but it would be nice to hear some educated opinions, especially from employers.

ETA · Joined: 14 Jun 2010 Posts: 60

Now the EU zone of EFL jobs will open to others from English speaking countries. Hurrah for Briexit! Although that could also mean that only Irish citizens will get all the EU EFL jobs now. Time to share EFL EU jobs with other countries!

The UK also has the authority to impose capital punishment on criminals now that it is bye-bye EU anti-justice.

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

I wouldn't be holding my breath that non EU member citizens will suddenly be welcomed across the continent to teach EFL. Firstly, the job market isn't strong or large (relatively) to begin with. Secondly, economies in the south where many teachers would like to go remain soft. Finally, EFL teachers aren't exactly the first (or second or third) thing that governments are going to consider at the moment!

Maybe in time there will be some easing, but I doubt the great wall will fall anytime soon.