Teach in Belize

Options for teaching in Belize

English is the official language of Belize, although a large proportion of the mainland population speaks Spanish day-to-day. As public education is conducted in the English language, Belize is an excellent choice for teachers interested in developing their skills at a more advanced level.

In recent years, the Belizean government has pushed to make education and teaching a priority, which is proving successful. Significant investment in public schools means there are many teaching opportunities with modest, entry-level salaries. Private schools hire teachers from overseas and often offer generous salaries, although in exchange for long hours. There is also an emphasis on extra-curricular activities, and teachers are required to be involved in leading sporting, academic and/or artistic groups outside of the classroom.

It is possible to live very comfortably while teaching in Belize. Quality accommodation is reasonable at around $500 USD per month and most supplies are cheap. The cost of living in Belize, especially on the coast and islands, can be higher than in neighboring countries, but wages do reflect this.

Hiring season to teach in Belize

The school year in Belize begins in early September and ends in late June. Hiring to teach in Belize usually takes place in the months of May or June for the upcoming school year.

Qualifications to teach in Belize

A Bachelor’s degree in an academic or education-based subject is necessary to land teaching jobs in Belize. Educators must also have a teaching qualification in order to qualify for a work permit to teach in schools in Belize. Depending on the school, previous experience may also be required.

Visas for teachers in Belize

You’ll need to obtain a work visa before arriving in Belize.

Life in Belize is community-driven, and teachers are welcomed with warmth and generosity.

Due to the isolated nature of most towns, communities follow a sustainable way of life where the majority of produce is locally sourced. Many popular American brands and products are widely available, although fast-food chains are not! Belizean cuisine varies by region and mostly combines Mexican and Caribbean influences. Fresh fish and seafood are staples. Snapper grilled on an outdoor stove with rice and vegetables is typical dinnertime fare. The Caye islands are famous for their lobster season from May through to September. Inland, meat and vegetable stews are popular, as well as homemade bread and fruit cakes. Belizeans typically enjoy coffee, juice or coconut milk with breakfast, which is usually tortilla based, often with eggs or fruit. Home-style bakeries and inexpensive street food stalls are abundant.

Housing in Belize

Teachers must usually pay for their own accommodation in Belize, although the cost of rent is reasonable, and utilities are inexpensive as well.

The Caribbean Sea makes Belize a spectacular diving destination inhabited by an array of marine life including tropical fish, dolphins, turtles and endangered manatees. The Great Blue Hole is the big draw – a 410-foot deep ocean sinkhole just off Caye Caulker, which is home to sharks and intricate rock formations. Due to a close history with both the US and the UK, locals have adopted much of the culture of both countries, including a national love of cricket and soccer.

Teaching jobs in Belize private schools require applicants to possess a TEFL certificate. The University of Toronto’s TEFL Online Certificate can help you become a leading candidate for some of the top private school positions.

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