Although there is currently no abundance of TEFL jobs in Papua New Guinea, there is certainly an increasing demand for English in the country. This new demand is already leading to a growth in paid ESL teaching positions, so for those keen to find work in this intriguing and unique country, now may be the best time to try.

Despite the country being home to a variety of different languages, it should be noted that English is the official language of Papua New Guinea’s government. This may be a driving factor in the nation’s increased desire to learn English. Currently only a very small percentage of the population speak English, which may be affecting the potential for growth in certain fields. Renewed intentions to increase English ability has meant that high schools are now instructing their pupils in the language. Read More

Although there is currently no abundance of TEFL jobs in Papua New Guinea, there is certainly an increasing demand for English in the country. This new demand is already leading to a growth in paid ESL teaching positions, so for those keen to find work in this intriguing and unique country, now may be the best time to try.

Despite the country being home to a variety of different languages, it should be noted that English is the official language of Papua New Guinea’s government. This may be a driving factor in the nation’s increased desire to learn English. Currently only a very small percentage of the population speak English, which may be affecting the potential for growth in certain fields. Renewed intentions to increase English ability has meant that high schools are now instructing their pupils in the language.

With this in mind, EFL positions are most likely to be found in state schools which are looking for ESL teaching assistants to work alongside current faculty members. Only qualified teachers with a degree can expect to be considered for these jobs. Also, the number of such positions is low, with the majority being found in or around the country’s capital city, Port Moresby.

Port Moresby is home to private non-profit schools for both local and expat students. Due to the fact that ESL teaching positions within these schools often offer accommodation and living expenses, they are highly prized and you can expect to face competition when searching for them. They offer the opportunity to teach within a unique location with the support of experienced staff who will further advance your EFL training.

There are not yet any private language academies or international schools in Papua New Guinea, though this may soon change. Other locations away from Port Moresby may provide other opportunities for TEFL positions in Papua New Guinea, yet salaries will not be competitive and it is essential to research living costs, which, surprisingly, are quite high.

In terms of private lessons, this is perhaps not advisable, as crime can be a problem in certain larger cities, while in more rural areas it is unlikely that you will find an available client base to sustain your needs. Teachers who do find a position are advised to ensure that they have budgeted well enough to find somewhere to live in the safer and reputable locations.

In conclusion, while there may not be an abundance of TEFL jobs in Papua New Guinea, government reforms and an increased desire to teach exclusively in the English language may soon see this situation change. Jobs which are available are highly sought after and candidates with a strong EFL qualification will undoubtedly be chosen over those without. Non-profit organisations are surely the most secure opportunity for an EFL teacher, with such positions often offering accommodation and living expenses.

For an adventurous EFL teacher lucky enough to find a position within this dramatic and tropical location, this could prove to be the teaching experience of a lifetime.