As a former French colony, English is the official language of the West African country of Senegal. However, a wide range of dialects are also spoken and a large proportion of Senegalese also speak the native language of Wolof.The economy of the country is based primarily on the export of fish, groundnuts and phosphates, however, as one of the more politically stable countries in Africa, tourism is also starting to become a major contributor.For this reason, English language skills are in high demand and thus employment opportunities for ESL/EFL teachers are on the rise and TEFL jobs in Senegal are becoming more popular.

Senegal offers a rich culture and is wellknown for traditional West African storytelling and the passing down of history from one generation to the next through both words and dance.Hospitality and food are also important parts of the country’s identity, with fish, legumes, couscous, rice and peanuts, which are the country’s main export crop, all commonly eaten.Typically, meat or vegetables are cooked slowly with abundant herbs and spices and served with a starch such as rice, couscous or bread. Read More

As a former French colony, English is the official language of the West African country of Senegal. However, a wide range of dialects are also spoken and a large proportion of Senegalese also speak the native language of Wolof.The economy of the country is based primarily on the export of fish, groundnuts and phosphates, however, as one of the more politically stable countries in Africa, tourism is also starting to become a major contributor.For this reason, English language skills are in high demand and thus employment opportunities for ESL/EFL teachers are on the rise and TEFL jobs in Senegal are becoming more popular.

Senegal offers a rich culture and is wellknown for traditional West African storytelling and the passing down of history from one generation to the next through both words and dance.Hospitality and food are also important parts of the country’s identity, with fish, legumes, couscous, rice and peanuts, which are the country’s main export crop, all commonly eaten.Typically, meat or vegetables are cooked slowly with abundant herbs and spices and served with a starch such as rice, couscous or bread.

The capital of Dakar is a vibrant, fast-paced mix of traditional street markets and brightlylit nightlife and provides the most opportunities for finding TEFL jobs in Senegal. The country’s coastline and national parks offer a slower pace and the chance to view spectacular scenery and a wide variety of wildlife.

The majority of TEFL jobs in Senegal are found in the larger cities of Dakar and St Louis and are most commonly in the more wealthy private or international schools.Qualified teachers are in particular demand to teach school subjects in English, however ESL/EFL jobs for native speakers with TEFL qualifications can also be found, particularly for those with experience.Private language academies are also becoming more popular, catering to young university students wishing to improve their English to conduct international business in the future.

Government-run public schools in Senegal are still largely lacking in funds and retaining teachers is often a problem.TEFL jobs in Senegal in public schools are likely to be unpaid volunteer positions, however this can be a very rewarding experience and an opportunity to explore more rural parts of the country.It is also an excellent opportunity to gain experience as an ESL teacher for those who have recently obtained their TEFL qualification.Volunteering in a public school is likely to be more challenging than working in a private school or language academy, with very basic classroom set-ups and large class sizes common.Agencies which organise volunteer programmes will usually arrange basic accommodation for ESL teachers in the form of a homestay.

Teaching English in Senegal based at a private or international school will usually provide a salary of around £17,000–£21,000 per year, which is sufficient to live comfortably if sticking to local food and avoiding imported goods.Schools will often provide accommodation, which may be in the form of a homestay or in a compound with other ESL teachers, and some schools will also pay for flights to and from the country or offer a bonus for completing the contract.