Teach English in Bern, Switzerland (2024)

Nestled in the heart of Switzerland, Bern is not just the country's de facto capital, but also a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its impeccably preserved medieval architecture. The city, with its cobbled streets, historic fountains, and the meandering Aare River, offers an enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. As you stroll along the Kramgasse or stand in awe beneath the Zytglogge (Clock Tower), you can't help but feel transported to a bygone era. Yet, amidst this historic charm, Bern thrives as a modern city, pulsating with energy, innovation, and a deep appreciation for education. This makes it a sought-after destination for English teachers looking to carve out a niche in the heart of Europe.

Reasons to Teach English in Bern

Historical Significance: Teaching in a UNESCO World Heritage site means your everyday walks will be through living history. From the Bear Park to the Federal Palace, the city's rich past becomes a part of your daily life.
Cultural Immersion: Bern is a melting pot of German, French, and Italian influences, offering teachers a unique cultural immersion. This also means that there's a significant demand for English as a bridging language among these diverse linguistic communities.
High Quality of Life: Switzerland consistently ranks high for its quality of life. With its efficient public transport, world-class healthcare, and impeccable public services, Bern is no exception.
Natural Beauty: Apart from its historic charm, Bern is a gateway to some of Switzerland's most stunning landscapes. The Bernese Oberland, with its majestic mountains and pristine lakes, is just a short train ride away.
Professional Development: Swiss educational standards are high, and English teachers often find themselves in environments that prioritize professional development and pedagogical excellence.
Multilingual Population: As a teacher, you'll benefit from a student base that's often trilingual, having a grasp of German, French, and Italian. This can make for richer teaching experiences and discussions.
Safety: Switzerland is known for its low crime rate and high safety standards. For expatriates and teachers from abroad, this provides peace of mind, making it easier to focus on teaching and enjoying life in Bern.
Favorable Compensation: Given Switzerland's strong economy, English teachers can expect competitive salaries compared to other European countries, though it's worth noting that the cost of living can be relatively high.
Engaged Student Base: Due to Bern's position as the federal administrative center of Switzerland, many professionals and officials often seek to improve their English skills for better career prospects, resulting in motivated and engaged students.
Centrally Located: Bern's central location makes it perfect for weekend getaways to other Swiss cities or neighboring countries, enhancing the overall European experience for teachers.

Understanding Bern's Education Landscape

The educational landscape of Bern is reflective of Switzerland's broader commitment to high-quality education. Schools in Bern, whether public or private, are known for maintaining rigorous academic standards. Moreover, the country's multilingual fabric, with German, French, Italian, and Romansh being the four national languages, means that language education holds a significant place in the curriculum.

While the majority of Bernese students learn English as part of their regular school curriculum, there is a substantial demand for supplementary English courses. This demand arises from both students seeking advanced proficiency and professionals looking to enhance their career prospects in the international arena. Consequently, language schools, private tuition, and business English courses are popular in the city.

Furthermore, Bern's position as the de facto capital means a constant influx of international professionals and diplomats. Many of these individuals and their families seek English education, further bolstering the demand for English teachers.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Bern

The requirements to teach English in Bern will be similar to the standard requirements for teaching English in Switzerland, however, here are the specific requirements for Bern:

Educational Qualifications: A Bachelor's degree is typically required. This degree doesn't necessarily have to be in English or teaching, but those with degrees in Education or English may have an advantage.
TEFL/TESOL/CELTA Certification: A certification in TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), or CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is often required, especially for positions in reputable language schools.
Experience: Some institutions might require prior teaching experience, especially for higher-paying positions. However, there are also opportunities for novice teachers, particularly in entry-level positions or assistant teaching roles.
Language Proficiency: While not always mandatory, having a basic understanding of German (or French, given Bern's bilingual nature) can be advantageous, both for classroom management and daily life.
Work Permit: Non-EU/EFTA citizens will need a work permit to teach in Bern. Employers often assist with this process, but it's crucial to ensure all paperwork is in order before relocating.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Bern

Salary: English teachers in Bern can expect to earn between CHF 3,500 to CHF 5,000 per month, depending on qualifications, experience, and the type of institution. Private tutoring can augment this income.
Healthcare: Switzerland boasts one of the world's best healthcare systems. Employees are typically covered under the employer's health insurance plan.
Vacation: Teachers can expect around 4-5 weeks of paid vacation annually, not including national holidays.
Contract Duration: Most teaching contracts in Bern are for a year, with the possibility of renewal.
Professional Development: Many institutions in Bern offer opportunities for professional growth, including workshops, courses, and sometimes funding for further education.
Other Benefits: Some institutions might offer additional benefits, such as end-of-contract bonuses, travel allowances, or assistance with relocation costs.

Living in Bern

Bern, the capital city of Switzerland, is a blend of rich history and modern living. Nestled in the heart of the country, this city offers a unique experience for those who choose to live and work here. Below are some facts and insights about living in Bern:

Historic Charm: The medieval city center of Bern is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking through its cobbled streets, you can marvel at the well-preserved buildings, fountains, and clock towers that transport you back in time.
Language: While German is the primary language spoken in Bern, many residents are bilingual or trilingual, often speaking French or English. As an English teacher, you'll find that your language skills are both a professional asset and a social icebreaker.
Cost of Living: Switzerland is known for its high standard of living, and Bern is no exception. Housing, dining, and transportation can be more expensive compared to other European cities. However, salaries are typically adjusted to account for these costs, ensuring a comfortable living standard.
Public Transport: Bern boasts an efficient public transport system, including trams, buses, and trains. The Swiss Travel Pass also makes it convenient to explore other parts of the country during weekends or holidays.
Safety: Bern consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the world. The low crime rate, combined with a strong sense of community, means that residents can feel secure in their day-to-day lives.
Recreation: For those who love nature, the Bernese Alps are just a short journey away, offering opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and more. The city itself has numerous parks, the most famous being the Rosengarten, which offers a panoramic view of the old town.
Cultural Experience: Bern offers a vibrant cultural scene, from its theaters and museums to festivals that celebrate everything from film to food. The Bern Art Museum (Kunstmuseum Bern) is the oldest fine arts museum in Switzerland, and it houses a renowned collection.
Education: If you're moving with family, you'll find that Bern has several reputable international schools, ensuring that your children receive a top-tier education.
Bear Park: A symbol of the city, bears have a special place in Bern's heart. The Bear Park is a modern space where these animals can roam freely, and it's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Teacher Stories

Sarah from the USA: "When I first considered teaching abroad, Switzerland wasn't my first choice. But after getting a job in Bern, I've fallen in love with the city. The students here are eager to learn, and the views on my walk to work look like they're straight out of a postcard. It's a different pace of life, but one that I've come to cherish."

Liam from the UK: "Being an English teacher in Bern has its set of challenges, especially with the multilingual nature of the country. But it's those very challenges that make every day rewarding. Plus, skiing in the Alps on weekends is a massive bonus!"

Anika from South Africa: "I was worried about the language barrier initially. However, most people here speak at least a bit of English. As for teaching, the students are disciplined, and the school infrastructure is top-notch. I've also made friends from all over the world."

Ella from Australia: "Teaching in Bern feels like I'm on a constant vacation. The old town, the Alps, the chocolates! There's so much to love. I came here for a year-long contract, but I'm seriously considering extending my stay."

Sean from Ireland: "The history in Bern is palpable. Teaching English here also gives me a unique perspective on how languages shape cultures. The Swiss are proud of their heritage, and it's been a joy to immerse myself in their world."

Maya from Canada: "Coming from Canada, I felt right at home with the snowy landscapes. But Bern has its unique charm. The mix of old-world architecture with modern amenities, and of course, the ever-disciplined and punctual Swiss transport, has made my teaching journey memorable."

Zoe from New Zealand: "The small class sizes and personalized attention we can give to students here are incredible. It's a different teaching experience, and I've grown so much professionally. Also, Swiss cheese and chocolate are to die for!"

Moving Towards Teaching English In Bern

Bern, with its unique blend of history, culture, and modernity, offers a rewarding experience for English teachers from around the world. Its status as the capital city of Switzerland, combined with its picturesque landscapes, ensures that teachers can enjoy a high quality of life while making a meaningful impact in their profession.

Taking the leap to teach in a foreign country can seem daunting. From forming global friendships to immersing oneself in Swiss culture, the benefits are manifold.

If you're contemplating a move to teach English, Bern could be your perfect destination. Embrace the opportunity, cherish the challenges, and let the city's charm captivate your heart. The journey promises to be as enriching as the destination itself.