Why choose Essential TEFL?

Essential TEFL is the only provider offering the TQUK Level 5 TEFL course in Bangkok. We also offer our approved 120-hour in-person TEFL course, with practical teaching experience in real schools and job placement support through Essential Educational Staffing.

During the course, you will plan lessons, teach real students, and receive feedback from experienced teacher trainers. You will also learn how hiring works in Thailand, what schools expect at interview, and how to prepare for a demo lesson.

We help with resume preparation, interview advice and introductions to schools looking for teachers. The final hiring decision is always made by the school, but we support suitable graduates throughout the application process.

How our job placement works

After completing your course, we introduce suitable graduates to schools across Thailand through Essential Educational Staffing. We help with your resume, interview preparation, demo lessons and arranging interviews.

The final hiring decision is always made by the school. Teaching positions are offered to graduates who meet the school's requirements and successfully complete the interview and demo lesson.

120-hour in-person training in Bangkok

Based at our training centre near the Lat Phrao MRT Underground and Skytrain Station, our TEFL certification runs Monday to Friday, 10am–3/4pm. You will combine classroom learning with daily practical teaching experience. Unlike online TEFL courses, you will teach real students, plan full lessons, and receive professional feedback every step of the way.

The course covers essential areas: lesson aims and staging, teaching the four skills, grammar made simple, phonology and pronunciation, error correction, assessment and classroom management. You will also practise using simple lesson models you can adapt for any level.

Each week includes a short teaching slot followed by structured feedback. You will learn what went well, what to adjust, and how to improve your next lesson. This cycle helps you progress at a steady pace and gives you a record of growth to show at interview.

Hands-on classroom experience

Every trainee teaches live classes in Bangkok schools. You will learn to:

• Plan and deliver engaging lessons for all ages.
• Use classroom management strategies effectively.
• Adapt lessons for different levels and group sizes.
• Improve quickly with daily trainer feedback.

Practice takes place in real classrooms with support on hand. You will prepare simple aims, choose activities that match those aims, and run lessons that flow. You will learn how to pace a class, check understanding, set up tasks, and keep students active. You will also learn how to use the board, the projector, and simple visual prompts that make lessons clearer.

By the end of the course, you will have taught multiple lessons, seen your progress in action, and built a small portfolio of plans and materials that you can show to schools.

How our job placement works

After certification, you will receive personalised career support. The placement team will:

• Prepare your resume and cover letter to highlight classroom practice.
• Prepare you for interviews and demo lessons with mock questions and feedback.
• Shortlist schools that match your goals and preferred locations.
• Guide you through Non-B visa and work permit steps before and once you accept an offer.

We partner with private, bilingual and international schools across Thailand. You can choose a position in Bangkok, a nearby city or a quieter province. Options include term-time contracts, full-time posts and positions at language centres with flexible hours.

Most graduates start work straight after finishing the course. Many secure interviews before the course ends. You will have direct contact with the hiring team, clear timelines and honest guidance at each step.

Types of schools in Thailand

Thailand offers a range of teaching environments. Understanding the differences helps you pick the right fit.

Public schools

Public schools offer a chance to work with larger classes and mixed levels. You will teach a set timetable and follow the school calendar. These positions are common in provincial areas and outer Bangkok districts and the pay can be lower.

Private and bilingual schools

Private and bilingual schools tend to have smaller classes, clearer curricula and more resources. Many are in Bangkok and larger cities. Expect a structured day, set targets and regular support from coordinators and higher pay.

International schools

International schools follow global curricula and often offer higher salaries and strong benefits. These positions expect a higher level of planning, assessment and reporting and often request prior experience or subject expertise.

Language centres

Language centres teach a mix of children, teens and adults. Schedules can include afternoons, evenings, and weekends. These positions suit teachers who want city-centre hours and a variety of classes.

What salaries can you expect?

Many teachers earn an extra 5,000–20,000 THB per month through after school classes and private tutoring. Popular add-ons include phonics, conversation clubs and exam prep. Schools may also offer paid camps during school breaks.

Where you can work

You can find positions in central Bangkok, outer districts and major cities such as Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Chonburi, Chiang Mai and Phuket. Provincial posts offer a slower pace and a lower cost of living. City positons offer easy transport links and a wider choice of schools.

We will help you compare options. Think about commute time, class size, support from the English department and your preferred age group. We will give a clear summary for each position so you can choose with confidence.

Visa and work permit support

To work legally you will need a Non-Immigrant B visa and a work permit. Your employer sponsors these documents. Our team will explain the process, list what to prepare and help you follow the timeline set by your school. You will also learn how to keep records in order so renewals are simple.

If you plan to stay longer and grow your career, we will outline next steps such as adding subject teaching, gaining extra qualifications or moving into coordinator position once you have experience.

Cost of living and budgeting

Bangkok can fit a range of budgets. Many teachers choose a condo near the BTS/MRT for an easy commute. Monthly costs vary by lifestyle, but the guide below is a realistic start for a new teacher.

• Rent: 8,000–20,000 THB for a studio or one-bedroom in a convenient area.
• Utilities and internet: 2,000–3,000 THB.
• Transport: 16–60 THB per BTS/MRT ride; short motorbike taxis near stations.
• Food: 60–120 THB for local meals; 200–500 THB for restaurants and cafés.

Teachers often save by living near the school, eating local food on weekdays, and using a prepaid travel card. Many also take a small tutoring group once or twice a week to top up savings.

Timeline from training to placement

• Weeks 1–4: Complete the in-person TEFL in Bangkok. Teach, get feedback, and build your portfolio.
• Weeks 5–6: Finalise your CV and cover letter. Practise interview answers and a short demo lesson.
• Weeks 6–8: Attend interviews and demos with matched schools.
• Weeks 8–10: Accept your offer. Begin visa and work permit paperwork with employer support.
• Week 10+: Start teaching and settle into your new role. Follow up with the placement team if you need help in your first term.

Frequently asked questions

How does your job placement programme work?

After successfully completing your course, we will introduce suitable graduates to schools across Thailand through Essential Educational Staffing. We help with your resume, interview preparation and arranging interviews. The final hiring decision is always made by the school.

Do I need a bachelor's degree?

Yes. A bachelor's degree is required to obtain a Thai Non-B Visa and Work Permit for most teaching positions. If you do not hold a degree, please contact us to discuss your options.

Do you help with visas and work permits?

Yes. Before and after you have accepted a teaching position, we will explain the visa and work permit process and help you prepare the required documents.

Can I choose where I teach?

You can tell us your preferred location, age group and type of school. We will do our best to introduce you to suitable teaching positions, although the final hiring decision is always made by the school.

Why study TEFL in Bangkok?

Bangkok is an excellent place to complete your TEFL course. The city has affordable accommodation, modern shopping centres, restaurants, cafés, excellent public transport and a wide range of teaching opportunities. Our training centre is just a short walk from Lat Phrao MRT Subway Station.

Choose our approved 120-hour TEFL course or the only TQUK Level 5 TEFL course available in Bangkok.

Apply today • View dates and fees • Visa and work permit guide • Current teaching jobs