Job Discussion Forums

[Laurel7]

Happy New Year All,

This question I'm sure has been answered somewhere, and I have been looking with tired eyes at this point, so here goes. How well do I need to be able to speak Spanish to get a job in Mexico? I see that there is a sort of package deal which includes a CELTA course in Playa del Carmen and a 2 week Spanish course.

Has anyone taken this course which includes the Spanish lessons?

Unfortunately I do not speak Spanish. I had a course in college but you know how that goes..if you don't use it you lose it.

Thanks for your imput.
Linda[/quote]

[jillford64]

I don't see not speaking spanish as being a factor in getting a job. I barely speak Spanish and it didn't stop me from getting a job in Mexico. Personally, I think it is helpful to be able to speak the students' native language at the beginning levels, but the school doesn't want me speaking Spanish to the students anyway.

[ls650]

You'll be teaching English, not Spanish. Some schools may prefer to hire instructors with a decent level of Spanish so as to avoid dealing with the teachers' headaches with immigration, housing, etc.... but most won't care as long as you're a decent teacher.

[mapache]

Not speaking Spanish was actually and advantage at the first school I taught at albeit I could not teach Intro then.
The school had a no Spanish policy so it was about the only rule I guess I didn't break there. If you move into the interior of Mexico, like Tabasco or Chiapas, few people will speak English with you so day-to-day life on the street will be an adventure.

[Ben Round de Bloc]

[Laurel7]

Thanks everybody for your imput!

Take care,
Linda