Job Discussion Forums

[BCNorBust]

Hey All -

Before I head to Madrid to take a TEFL course, I was wondering if you could offer your insights into the dress code for teachers in Madrid. I know in NYC, teaching in a pair of nice khakis or black trousers and a button-down are fine, but is it the same in Spain? Should I be dressing more corporate? or can you teach in jeans? I realize the school/company dress code may vary, but on the whole, what would you deem appropriate and inappropriate attire? I'm female, by the way.

Thanks.

[SEndrigo]

[Moore]

Like he said, you�ll never look silly if you�re a bit over smart the first few times, but you don�t want to be the only under-dressed one: In company classes (common here) collared shirt and smart trousers and shoes (for a man).
I have seen all sorts of silliness here I never saw anywhere else: one school I had an interview at had a notice to teachers telling them to "try to avoid" wearing flip-flops in companies.... Asia is a lot more formal. The Spanish do dress very well in companies though and consider their English colleagues rather scruffy.

[SEndrigo]

hahaha, too right!

That's amazing, I could never imagine anyone wearing flip-flops and teaching English! But it exists apparently!

It's true, most Spaniards do dress quite well at work. And of course, scruffy looking English teachers don't make a good impression.

If you're thinking of dressing down and teaching English in Spain, don't do it! First of all, you'll look like a tosser. Second, you'll ruin the reputation of other teachers.

This is just one of the reasons why pay is abysmally low in some schools...and also why standards are low.

In short, backpackers need not apply! (though I am aware this statement will do little or nothing to change the situation, one has to do his part)