Teachers Needed in Ibague, Colombia

Native Tongue (NT SAS) is Canadian owned and operated, in its 16th year of operation in Ibague, Colombia and is registered with the Secretary of Education.

Ibague is 200 km. South-West of Bogotá with 600,000 inhabitants and has most modern amenities. The city is situated in a valley surrounded by tropical mountains and has a climate that is near perfect, normally reaching 28 daily and dropping to 18 at night.

One´s safety in Colombia has improved dramatically in recent years and is no more a concern than it would be in any large North American city. The people are very sociable and Ibague is vibrant with activity and nightlife. A new, much larger school has just been built, accommodating up to 18 teachers. The classrooms, equipment and ideas are all modern and classes are very dynamic for both the student and teacher.

We are looking for experienced teachers to start work in early 2018. A clear voice with a neutral “North American” accent is important. An outgoing, energetic person is a must. Spanish is an asset, however not necessary.

Although you will teach various different levels and age groups, you must be comfortable teaching young children.

Recent changes in Colombian government policy may require all teachers to take an English proficiency test at some point during your contract.

We offer: 
-A competitive monthly salary of approximately 1.666.000 Colombian Pesos for 24 hours per week of in-class teaching PLUS an annual bonus, equivalent to two-month’s salary. 
-15 days paid vacation. 
-Medical insurance (after 30 days) arranged for and paid in part by the school. The policy has broad coverage including emergency and regular care as well as drug and dental. 
-A written contract which meets all local standards and practices. 
-Full assistance in obtaining a work-visa, paid for by the school. All foreign teachers at Native Tongue require a work-visa. For your own security please do not accept positions at other schools without a visa. It is illegal and has serious consequences in Colombia. 
-Full academic support including the direction and materials needed to teach your classes. 
-Possible contract renewals including management positions.

We require: 
-A native English speaker willing to sign a 10 - 12 month contract. 
-Minimum 2 years’ experience teaching English, preferably EFL overseas. 
-An English teaching certificate is a must (TESOL etc.). No degree is required. 
-Availability of a minimum 24 hours per week of in-class teaching at various times from 7:00am to 9:00pm Tuesday through Friday and Saturday 8:00am - 6:00pm. There are no classes on Mondays and the school is closed on Sundays. You may be required to work “split-shifts”, for example mornings and evenings. 
-One to teach classes of all levels and ages. The majority of students are young adults and class sizes are typically up to 15. 
-A professional attitude. Although teaching overseas is all about the experience of travelling and being immersed into new cultures, Native Tongue abides by its contracts and expects teachers to do the same.

Note: 
The cost of living in Ibague is relatively low, even compared to Bogota. Our salary is very competitive and sufficient to live comfortably including regular eating-out and entertainment, however one shouldn’t expect to leave with savings or pay previous debts.

To be considered for a position: 
Send by e-mail a cover letter and complete resume including a telephone number, an e-mail address and your photo. 
DO NOT attach certificates, diplomas or letters of reference (these may be requested at a later time). 
Your e-mail will be reviewed ONLY if you follow these instructions. 
Please be prepared to demonstrate your English by phone. If English is not your first language please do not apply. 
If you are not serious about accepting this position, or are not available when required please do not apply at this time. 
If you qualify you will be contacted, at which time we will answer any questions you may have. Due to the volume of e-mails received, not all applicants will be contacted, but please watch for future job postings and re-apply.

Note: 
Currently there is a Colombian government program being offered by many 3rd party hiring agencies. Although we are aware of this program, and appreciate any effort to improve English in Colombia, please note that Native Tongue offers greater compensation, better working conditions, an actual work visa and most importantly, Native Tongue DOES NOT REQUIRE ANY TYPE OF FEE TO BE PRE-PAID BY THE APPLICANT.

E-mail: smiranda@cogeco.ca

Shawn Miranda, 
Canadian Operations, 
Native Tongue, 
Colombia.