Teach in the Bahamas

Teaching in the Bahamas – Hiring

The school year in the Bahamas runs from August to mid-June for both public and private international schools. Peak hiring times for teachers are generally during this summer break period to allow for teachers to start in the upcoming academic year.

Qualifications to teach in the Bahamas

In the Bahamas, government-funded school (at least) is mandatory for children from ages 5 – 16. Due to a high attendance rate, qualifications for foreign teachers in the Bahamas are generally higher than those in surrounding smaller countries.

It is recommended that teachers who want to teach abroad in the Bahamas hold a Bachelor’s degree and have past teaching experience either in their home country or abroad. Teachers should also be native English speakers. For candidates wanting to teach at private international schools, an advanced degree in education may be required.

A relevant ESL teaching qualification such as a TEFL certificate can look great on your resume and give you a leg up in landing a teaching job in the Bahamas. The University of Toronto OISE TEFL certificate can equip you with all the necessary skills to prepare you for teaching abroad in the Bahamas!

Visas for teachers in the Bahamas

To be able to teach legally in the Bahamas, you must get a long-term work permit. Teachers can receive this permit once they have an employment contract with the school that they will be working for. Many international schools will help expat teachers with this process.

If you get offered a job to teach abroad in the Bahamas, it’s recommended that you contact the Bahamian consulate or embassy before you leave to submit all the necessary documents.

Teachers living in the Bahamas can take advantage of the true island lifestyle. Although the Bahamas are known for having a relatively high cost of living, qualified teachers can expect to be able to live comfortably outside the downtown of Nassau in more residential areas close to many private and public schools.

Things to do for teachers in the Bahamas

If living in the Bahamas, teachers must take advantage of the country’s extraordinary beaches. With white sugar-like sand and warm, crystal blue water, you will want to spend your weekends exploring all the amazing waterfront the Bahamas has to offer. If living near Nassau, Cabbage Beach is named one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, and is full of snorkeling, parasailing, and sunbathing opportunities!

Throughout Nassau and Paradise Island, you will find a multitude of shops and restaurants that are all authentically Bahamian. The culinary options in the Bahamas are endless, with everything from traditional street food to five-star cuisine – there is something for everyone. Stroll through markets full of authentic Bahamian street markets or modern retail malls and shop to your heart’s content.

Due to its tropical, year-round weather, the islands of the Bahamas offer many outdoor activities to do during your free time. Take a boat between islands to explore the unique places throughout the country, or even work towards your diving license to explore the Bahamas under the waves.