How to Begin Teaching in Jordan

The Homeplace of Petra and Queen Rania.

The majority of positions are in the capital Amman.

When first hearing the word Jordan, two words might come to mind, Petra and Queen Reiner. Many tourists flock each year to see the ruins of the splendid lost city of Petra, as well as other ancient Greek, Roman and biblical sites. They also come to swim in the Dead Sea and to experience the Bedouin way of life. Jordan has a hot desert climate in the day, while being cold at night. This country also has some scenic green valleys to contrast the dryness of the red desert called Wadi Rum. There are also many colourful outdoor markets throughout the country. The blue waters of the Gulf of Aqaba also delight.

The capital city Amman seems to symbolise the contrasting nature of this culture. In Western Amman the visitor finds luxurious shopping malls and restaurants. This has a more west feel. Visitors can sit and sip their cardamom coffee and try the calming nargileh (water pipe). However, east Amman is more religiously conservative than its western half. It also houses many of the refugees from Palestine. This divide is also a reminder that although Jordan has liberal elements, people are expected to behave in line with these more conservative traditions. For women this means dressing conservatively. Although foreign women are not expected to cover their heads, they are expected to cover their shoulders, knees and cleavage. Women who do wear regular Western dress in public are often harassed and receive unwanted sexual advances. However, in private, among expats, women seem to have more freedom.

Jordanians also love a good celebration, and the people regularly have parties to celebrate small or large events. They are also friendly to those who respect their modest customs and traditions. They also have some of the best musicians in this part of the world, who often perform in more liberal countries such as Qatar or the UAE.

Teaching Opportunities

Although many people speak English, there are still opportunities for those who want to teach English. Jordanians generally want teachers who have a 120-hour TEFL certificate and experience. The majority of positions are in the capital Amman, either in universities or private language schools. Although the salaries are low, some employers offer benefits, such as a reimbursed flight, accommodation and health insurance. Fortunately, the cost of living is also low, which will mean that you will be able to live comfortably even if you cannot save. Contracts are generally for 20-25 hours of teaching a week, and work permits can be obtained after you have arrived in Jordan.

Teaching Requirements

Degree Requirement	Typical Contract Length	Peak Hiring Seasons	Visa Info	Typical Students	Average Monthly Cost of Living in £ GBP & Local Currency	Average Monthly Salary in £ GBP & Local Currency

Not required

6 - 12 Months

July - August, all year round

Tourist visa convert to work visa

Business professionals, children

695 – 930 JOD (600 – 800 GBP)

Degree Requirement

Not required

Typical Contract Length

6 - 12 Months

Peak Hiring Seasons

July - August, all year round

Visa Info

Tourist visa convert to work visa

Typical Students

Business professionals, children

Average Monthly Cost of Living in £ GBP & Local Currency

695 – 930 JOD (600 – 800 GBP)

Average Monthly Salary in £ GBP & Local Currency

695 – 930 JOD (600 – 800 GBP)

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