A Guide To Becoming A Teacher In Bahrain

If you're considering a career in teaching, Bahrain has a lot to offer. With a high demand for teachers, competitive salaries and benefits, and a unique cultural experience, it's an excellent location for educators looking to teach abroad. Here's what you need to know about becoming a teacher in Bahrain.

TEFL Certification

There are a few requirements that you need to keep in mind when applying for TEFL certification. Firstly, you need to be a fluent English speaker and a citizen of a recognised English-speaking nation, such as the US, UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa. Secondly, you must have a bachelor's degree in any field. While it is not necessary for your degree to be in education, having a background in education or teaching is often preferred by schools. Additionally, a master's degree is also favoured by some schools over just a bachelor's degree.

Once you have your TEFL certification, you can start applying for teaching jobs in Bahrain. The most common opportunities for ESL teachers in Bahrain are in international schools, private language schools, summer camps, and private lessons. The hiring process for teaching jobs in Bahrain occurs year-round, with May through August being the optimal hiring months. It is important to note that the interview procedure can be lengthy and may last for up to three months.

With a TEFL certification, you can expect to earn a competitive salary in Bahrain, ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 USD per month, depending on your qualifications and experience. Additionally, schools in Bahrain often offer generous benefits, such as housing allowances, medical insurance, and airfare reimbursement, allowing teachers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle and save a significant portion of their salary.

Bachelor's Degree

To teach in Bahrain, you will need a bachelor's degree. While your bachelor's degree does not need to be in education, a background in education or teaching is often preferred by schools. It is also worth noting that a master's degree will be favoured by some schools over a bachelor's degree.

A four-year bachelor's degree in any field is required to teach English in Bahrain. However, a background in education or teaching is often preferred. This is because, in addition to English teachers, Bahrain also welcomes teachers who specialise in various other subjects. These include: linguistics, Spanish, French, chemistry, physics, arts, music, physical education, and more.

If you are looking to teach at an international school or university, you will generally be required to have Qualified Teacher Status in your specialist field, as well as previous teaching experience.

Native English Speaker

How to Become a Teacher in Bahrain as a Native English Speaker

If you're a native English speaker looking to teach in Bahrain, there are a few key things you need to know. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Education and Qualifications:

• You will need a bachelor's degree. While it is preferred to have a degree in education, English, or a related field, some schools may consider candidates with degrees in other areas, especially if they have significant teaching experience or additional qualifications.
• Obtain a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate. This is a requirement for many schools and will open up more job opportunities. A 120-hour TEFL qualification is standard for most positions.
• Consider obtaining additional certifications such as TESOL, CELTA, or DELTA. These certifications are highly valued by schools and can boost your job prospects.

Visa and Work Permit:

• As a non-citizen, you will need to obtain a work visa to teach in Bahrain. Your employer will typically assist with the visa process.
• For your work permit application, you will need to submit documents such as a copy of your TEFL certificate, employment letter, contract, health records, passport, passport photographs, and visa application form.

Job Search and Application:

• Start your job search by exploring online platforms, such as Teast and international job boards, which list teaching vacancies in Bahrain.
• Contact language schools and educational institutions directly, especially in cities like Manama, Riffa, and Isa Town, where the demand for English teachers is higher.
• Join social media groups dedicated to teaching in Bahrain and connect with current teachers, recruiters, and expats.
• Prepare a strong application package, including a CV that highlights your relevant qualifications and experience, and a tailored cover letter expressing your enthusiasm for teaching in Bahrain.

Salary and Benefits:

• Salary expectations for English teachers in Bahrain range from 1000 BHD to 2000 BHD per month, which is approximately $2,660 to $5,320 USD.
• Benefits often include housing allowances, health insurance, paid vacations, contract bonuses, and annual salary increases. Some employers may also offer flight allowances and reimbursement for travel expenses.

Cost of Living:

• Bahrain offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other Gulf countries. However, the cost of living is increasing due to inflation and the growing expatriate community.
• Housing is typically the most significant expense, with rents ranging from 200 to 500 BHD for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center.
• Other expenses to consider include utilities, internet, food, and transportation. Basic groceries are moderately priced, and dining out is fairly inexpensive.

Culture and Lifestyle:

• Bahrain has a rich cultural heritage and a blend of modernity and tradition. The country offers a unique experience with its mix of Arabian traditions and cosmopolitan living.
• The climate in Bahrain is hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in the summer.
• Bahrain is considered more liberal compared to other Arab nations, making it a popular choice for expats. The country has a friendly and welcoming community, with a large expatriate population.

By following these steps and staying informed about the specific requirements and opportunities in Bahrain, you'll be well on your way to becoming a teacher in this vibrant country as a native English speaker.

Visa Requirements

To teach in Bahrain, you will need to obtain a work visa. Teachers are responsible for securing their own visas, which are necessary to teach in the country. The process of interviewing and procuring a visa can take at least 1-3 months, so it is important to plan accordingly.

To receive a work visa, teachers will need to pass a physical examination and an HIV test. Additionally, in many cases, academic transcripts and a criminal background check may also be required.

When entering the country, teachers must present several documents, including an employment letter, a copy of their contract, health records, a passport, and passport photographs, along with the completed visa application form. It is important to note that additional documents may also be requested.

Most teachers are hired in advance from their home country and have their visa processed before their departure for Bahrain. English teachers, in particular, are in high demand in Bahrain. However, the job market is competitive, and most TEFL positions will be offered to experienced native English-speaking teachers with advanced credentials.

Job Opportunities

Teaching jobs in Bahrain are available in international schools, universities, and private language schools. The most common teaching roles in Bahrain are:

• Teaching adults and children in private language schools
• Teaching children in international schools
• Teaching young adults in vocational colleges
• Private tutoring for adults and children

English is widely spoken in Bahrain, and there is a high demand for English teachers. However, Arabic is the official language, and knowledge of Arabic is advantageous when applying for teaching roles.

Teachers in Bahrain can expect a competitive salary and benefits package. Salaries range from $1,500 to $4,000 USD per month, and some schools offer additional benefits such as housing allowances, medical insurance, and airfare reimbursement.

The academic year in Bahrain runs from September to early summer, and hiring occurs year-round, with May to August being the optimal hiring months.

To teach in Bahrain, you will need a valid work visa. Teachers are responsible for obtaining their own work visa and should expect the process of interviewing and procuring a visa to take at least 1-3 months. To receive a work visa, teachers will need to pass a physical and HIV test, and in some cases, a criminal background check may also be required.

To be considered for a teaching role in Bahrain, you will need a bachelor's degree and a TEFL certification. A master's degree is also advantageous, and some schools prefer teachers with a background in education or teaching.

Some of the schools currently hiring in Bahrain include:

• Modern Knowledge Schools
• Canadian School of Bahrain
• Riffa Views International School
• Arabian Gulf University

Frequently asked questions