Job Discussion Forums

Bloomina · Joined: 26 May 2011 Posts: 8

Hey,

I'm a newbie into the ELT business. I'm taking the CELTA in August and at the beginning of September I'd like to look for an ELT job somewhere in Italy.

I was mainly taking private schools into account and my question is: what are the standard employment conditions? Do I have to be self-employed in order to get a job? I'm an EU citizen so no visa issues here.

Thanks in advance for any help!!

Teacher in Rome · Joined: 09 Jul 2003 Posts: 1286

Hi Bloomina

Conditions vary. Probably what you'll get is a nine month contract (say Sept / Oct to June / July). It'll be a "contratto di progetto" in all likelihood, either by the hour, or by the month in terms of payment.

Alternatively, a school who can't guarantee you a set number of hours might ask you invoice them, which means you'll have to be self-employed and get a partita IVA (vat number). This gives you the option of working for a number of schools, or pitching for your own business as a freelancer. This option is a hassle if you don't know how long you'll be in Italy - you'll be paying all sorts of forward tax and social security payments. Plus you'll need to get residency and an accountant to open the P Iva before you start invoicing.

My advice would be to start the language school route first. Get a contract with a school and see how you like it before you decide to go freelance in Italy. Taxes and social security payments are really high here - count on 50% of your gross income.