Teach English Online with English 1 (Formerly English First / EF)

Before teaching English online became a trend, EF — now known as English 1 — was already doing it. Since 1997, they've helped teachers connect with learners around the world through structured, professional lessons. While many platforms have since come and gone, English 1 has built a reputation for reliability, training, and consistency.

With decades of experience in global education, English 1 continues to offer online teaching jobs to qualified tutors based in the UK or USA. For those who want steady hours, professional systems, and a more traditional teaching experience (minus the commute), it’s one of the most dependable options out there.

Whether you’re looking to build a remote teaching career or just want a side gig with a reputable brand, English 1 strikes a balance between flexibility and structure that’s hard to beat.

Company Overview: From EF to English 1

English First, known for decades as EF, began in 1965 with a mission to open the world through education. Over the years, the company became a giant in the language learning industry, running physical schools, exchange programs, and digital learning tools across more than 100 countries. They’re also the force behind the EF English Proficiency Index — a global benchmark for English skills by country.

In recent years, their online teaching division has rebranded as English 1, signaling a fresh, streamlined identity while keeping the core systems and support EF was known for. Unlike marketplace platforms such as Cambly, Preply, or Italki, where teachers compete for students and juggle self-promotion, English 1 operates more like a virtual school — with structured bookings, central student assignment, and a more stable workflow.

How Teaching Online Works with English 1

When you teach with English 1, you’re not chasing students or waiting for random calls. Lessons are scheduled in advance, and students are matched directly to you based on your availability and teaching profile. This creates a more predictable and manageable workload.

Classes are typically one-on-one, though you’ll work with a wide range of learners — from young children to adults — depending on where the demand is. With students located around the world, your schedule may include morning, afternoon, or evening slots, but you’ll always know your calendar ahead of time.

For teachers who prefer routine and structure over last-minute bookings or free-for-all platforms, this model offers a refreshing sense of order in the remote teaching world.

Requirements to Teach with English 1

To join English 1 (formerly EF) as an online tutor, there are a few non-negotiables. First, you must be legally eligible to work in either the United States or the United Kingdom — the platform only hires teachers based in those countries.

A bachelor’s degree is required, though it can be in any subject. You’ll also need a TEFL certification, with a minimum of 40 hours of training. That said, most teachers — especially those aiming for long-term roles or higher student satisfaction — opt for a 120+ hour TEFL course, which tends to be the industry standard.

Fluency is essential: teachers must demonstrate C2-level English proficiency. Native speakers are preferred, though highly fluent non-natives with the right credentials may still succeed if they meet other qualifications.

Onboarding and Application Process

The hiring process is straightforward and streamlined — a breath of fresh air compared to some newer platforms. You’ll start by submitting your application online, including your CV, bachelor’s degree, TEFL certificate, and permission to work in the US or UK. A background check is part of the process, but there’s no demo lesson required.

Once your documents are reviewed, you’ll be invited to a short interview with a recruiter from EF’s US or UK team. This is a chance to discuss your teaching experience, expectations, and tech readiness.

If you’re accepted, you’ll go through onboarding training, which includes a quick run-through of the teaching platform, tools, and expectations. There’s also a tech check to ensure your hardware and internet meet minimum requirements — more on that in a later section.

Platform Technology and Teaching Tools

English 1 sets itself apart by using a dedicated teaching portal — no third-party platforms like Zoom or Skype. Everything happens within their system: video calls, lesson materials, scheduling, feedback forms, and student records are fully integrated.

The platform has strict tech requirements, so you’ll need to come prepared. A Windows PC is mandatory — Macs aren’t supported. You’ll also need:

• A green screen and proper background setup
• A ring light for clear lighting
• A noise-canceling headset
• A 1080p webcam
• Reliable internet with at least 2 Mbps upload and download speed

This setup ensures classes look and sound professional — it’s part of EF’s long-standing focus on quality and consistency.

What It’s Like to Teach for English 1

Teaching for English 1 means working with a diverse pool of students — from young learners to adult professionals. While the platform once focused primarily on students in China, it has since broadened its reach globally.

The good news for teachers? Structured lessons and materials are provided, so there’s minimal prep. You’re expected to deliver engaging, interactive sessions — not reinvent the curriculum. That means you can focus on building rapport, offering personalized feedback, and tracking your students’ progress over time.

Professionalism is key: consistency, punctuality, and a polished presentation all help maintain the brand’s reputation and secure repeat bookings.

Pay, Contracts, and Benefits

Teaching with English 1 offers predictable income and the security of a structured contract — something many freelancers value in the chaotic world of online teaching.

• Base pay starts at £9.50/hour (UK) or $11.85/hour (US).
• Teachers can earn more over time through bonuses, student reviews, and other platform incentives.
• In the UK, you’ll be on an 11-month contract that includes holiday pay, pension contributions, and automatic monthly payments (typically on the 28th).
• In the US, you’ll work under 6-month rolling contracts, and you’ll need to invoice monthly to receive payment on the 26th.
• Income example: 38 teaching hours/week can yield approximately $1,800/month.

Payments are in local currency and follow a regular schedule, giving teachers financial predictability — a rarity in the gig economy.

Pros and Cons of Teaching with English 1

Pros:

• Trusted brand with over 50 years in international education.
• All teaching materials are provided — no need to prep full lessons.
• Predictable structure and hours help with planning and budgeting.
• Strong onboarding, support, and clear systems make it easy to stay organized.

Cons:

• Only open to teachers legally residing in the UK or US.
• No Mac compatibility — PC and specific tech setup required.
• Requires a degree and TEFL certification to apply.
• Pay is stable but mid-range, better for consistency than high earning potential.

Who English 1 is Best For

Great for:

• Teachers who value structure and consistency over total freedom.
• First-time online teachers who want support and don’t want to build their own curriculum.
• UK or US residents with a reliable home setup and strong internet.
• People looking to teach part-time or full-time with a clear schedule and regular income.

Not ideal for:

• Digital nomads or anyone outside the UK/US.
• Teachers who rely on Mac computers or lack the specific tech setup.
• Freelancers who want to teach on the fly or switch locations regularly.
• Experienced tutors who prefer custom lessons or set their own rates.

How to Apply to English 1

Getting started with English 1 is relatively straightforward if you meet the basic requirements.

✅ What you’ll need:

• Your CV/resume
• A copy of your Bachelor’s degree
• Your TEFL certificate (minimum 40 hours, ideally 120+)
• Valid proof of ID
• A quiet teaching environment and all required hardware (PC only — no Macs)

🖥️ Tech readiness:

• Complete a hardware and internet test during onboarding.
• Prepare your ring light, green screen, noise-canceling headset, and Windows laptop or desktop.

Final Thoughts + Where to Apply

English 1 (formerly English First / EF) stands out as a reliable option in the crowded world of online teaching. With its decades-long track record, structured curriculum, and professional environment, it’s a great fit for teachers looking for stability without the chaos of chasing bookings or building their own materials.

While it's not a flexible gig for globe-trotting nomads, it’s a solid, career-friendly option for UK and US-based teachers who want consistent work, steady income, and a platform that does the heavy lifting.

👉 Ready to apply?
Apply on English 1

🔍 Also known as:
EF Online / English First / EF Education First
EF Teach Online

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