Latvia - TEFL in Latvia
Generally speaking, the demand for native speakers of English - with or without qualifications - is increasing in Latvia and the other Baltic States.
However, the economic hardship that still prevails here means that relatively few paid opportunities exist for expatriate teachers. Although ordinary people are very keen to learn English, they cannot afford to pay for a course of English lessons. These countries are desperate to develop economic links with the West yet their economies are not strong enough to attract commercial language schools from the US and Britain.
Latvia is no exception and offers very few paid TEFL possibilities. However, there are some volunteer opportunities for those who can support themselves and are interested in seeing and understanding the diverse and interesting places that make up this part of the former Soviet Union.
The International Exchange Center for example, is one of the organizations that invites volunteers to work as counselors in summer camps for children in Latvia. Though these are not primarily English language summer camps, English is now being added to the curriculum. There is a registration fee to be paid to join and volunteers should bear in mind that accommodation and food at these camps is very basic.
The general qualifications to teach in Latvia are a degree and a TEFL certificate such as the ICAL TEFL Certificate.
