Peru is an up-and-coming TEFL destination for many teachers. Having one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Manchu Picchu, has done a lot to draw teachers to Peru. There is no lack of schools, institutes or universities in Peru, but finding a good one and lining up a position before you arrive can be a challenge.

One helpful stepping stone in entering the TEFL market in Peru is to take an intensive TEFL Training Programme. There are seven such programs available in Peru, six of them are located in Cusco, one in Trujillo, and one in Arequipa. The majority of them are about four weeks long, with the exception of the one in Arequipa, which lasts three months.

Cusco has a more American-European feel that the rest of Peru as it's a top tourist destination. You will see many signs in English and lots of the locals speak English as well. Besides Cusco, many foreigners head towards Trujillo, Lima and Arequipa and some go to Piura and Trujillo as well.

Participating in an intensive course eases the transition since you are with people who speak English and are in a similar situation as you are. This way you're not just thrown into a new country with a new language and culture. Your TEFL Trainers will also be able to give you cultural and job search tips and answer many of the questions that you may have about teaching in Peru. Your TEFL course may also include a bit of basic Spanish to help you get around. If you are offered to participate in an internship after the completion of your TEFL course, I highly recommend that you do so as it is an invaluable way to make connections.

Making connections moves us on to the next item. Connections are gold, especially in Peru. Most TEFL positions in language institutes pay about 500 to 700USD a month. (If you have qualified teacher status and two years experience, you can work at international schools and should start at one of your local international school job fairs. Pay is usually around 2000USD a month plus benefits). Although experience is important, if you want a better job, you will have to get it through connections and being in the right place at the right time.

A good way to start making connections is through the two expat websites: www.expatperu.com and www.livinginperu.com In addition to bringing expats and Peruvians together, both of these sites have a classified section where you can search for jobs or place an advert for free. Often people who stay at an institute for a while have a good chance for a promotion and small language schools usually promote teachers more than the larger chain schools.

So once you complete your TEFL course and start making connections, you'll have to start sending out your CV. A must is having your photo on your CV. Make sure you also state that you're a native speaker and play up any teaching experience, even if it's tutoring or coaching, as much as possible. If you have attended or presented at any teaching conferences, be sure to list that as well.

Most people get hired within one or two weeks upon arrival. You will probably be asked to do an in-person interview or a demo lesson. Although some places occasionally hire without meeting people in person, I think it's beneficial since you can see what the institute is actually like and get to talk to some of the current teachers and they can give you insight about what it's like to work there. You can also ask about visas. Although working without a visa, language institutes will usually classify you as a "volunteer" and will give you a "stipend" for your work. Be sure to get a contract in writing as it can clarify any misunderstandings that may come up.

So there you have it, tips that will take you from the time your arrival to getting a teaching job. Congrats! You're on your way to becoming an English teacher in Peru.

The Ultimate Peru List http://www.theultimateperulist.blogspot.com
The LA Job List http://www.thelajoblist.blogspot.com
TEFL Tips http://www.tefltips.blogspot.com