Teach English in Copenhagen, Denmark (2024)

Nestled in the heart of Scandinavia, Copenhagen stands as a beacon of design, sustainability, and innovation. Denmark's capital city effortlessly merges the old with the new: from its picturesque cobblestone streets and historic buildings to its modern architecture and cutting-edge infrastructure. With its idyllic canals, world-renowned cuisine, and the omnipresence of bikes, Copenhagen is a city that continues to enchant visitors and residents alike. It's a city known for its high quality of life, a thriving arts scene, and an education system that is recognized worldwide. For educators seeking a vibrant urban experience rooted in rich traditions and progressive values, teaching English in Copenhagen presents a unique and rewarding opportunity.

Reasons to Teach English in Copenhagen

High Standard of Education: Denmark consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for education. As an English teacher, you'll be stepping into an environment that values and invests in the learning process.
Cultural Immersion: With its many museums, galleries, and theaters, Copenhagen is a cultural hub. Teaching here provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in Danish culture, history, and art.
Work-Life Balance: Danes are known for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The shorter working hours provide teachers ample time to explore the city, learn the language, and engage in recreational activities.
Safety and Well-being: Copenhagen is one of the safest cities in the world, with a very low crime rate. Moreover, the healthcare system is top-notch, ensuring peace of mind for residents.
Sustainability: Copenhagen's commitment to sustainability is evident everywhere, from its cycling infrastructure to its green buildings. As an educator, you can inspire your students with the city's environmental initiatives and practices.
Language Learning: While most Danes speak impeccable English, living and working in Copenhagen offers an excellent opportunity to learn Danish, further enhancing the cultural experience.
Gateway to Scandinavia: Its geographical location makes Copenhagen a great base for exploring other parts of Scandinavia, including Sweden, Norway, and Finland.
Community of Expats: Over the years, the expat community in Copenhagen has grown, ensuring that newcomers have ample support and resources to help them settle in and navigate their new surroundings.

Understanding Copenhagen's Education Landscape

The education system in Denmark, and by extension in Copenhagen, is globally respected for its progressive teaching methodologies and focus on student well-being. Danish children start primary school at the age of 6 and continue until they're about 16, moving through various stages which culminate in upper secondary education. English is a compulsory subject in Danish primary schools, generally introduced to students around the age of 9.

In Copenhagen, there's a notable presence of international schools catering to the expatriate community and locals seeking an international curriculum. These schools often have a greater demand for native English-speaking teachers. Additionally, there's an opportunity for teaching adults in various language centers and private tutoring setups, given that many professionals seek to perfect their English skills for business purposes.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Copenhagen

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

Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree, preferably in Education, English, or a related field, is almost always required.
TEFL/TESOL Certification: While this may not be a mandatory requirement for all schools, having a TEFL or TESOL certification can give you a competitive edge and open up more opportunities.
Native English Speaker: Preference is often given to native speakers from countries where English is the primary language.
Previous Teaching Experience: Some schools, especially international ones, may require prior teaching experience.
Knowledge of Danish: Not a strict requirement, but having a basic understanding of Danish can be beneficial, especially if you're considering public schools.
Background Check: A clean criminal background check may be required by some institutions.
Work Permit: Non-EU/EEA citizens will require a work permit to teach in Denmark. The process is usually initiated by the hiring institution.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Copenhagen

Teaching in Copenhagen can be rewarding both in terms of experience and compensation. However, it's essential to factor in the high cost of living in the city when considering the salary.

Salary Range: Depending on the institution, qualifications, and experience, monthly salaries for English teachers can range from 18,000 to 30,000 DKK.
Healthcare: Denmark has an excellent public healthcare system. Teachers employed in Copenhagen usually benefit from the country's healthcare provisions, with contributions often deducted directly from their salaries.
Vacation: Teachers can expect generous vacation time, especially during summer, aligning with the school holiday calendar.
Professional Development: Some schools offer continuous professional development opportunities, helping teachers stay updated with the latest educational methodologies.
Contract Duration: Contracts typically last for a year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and mutual agreement.

Living in Copenhagen

Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a harmonious blend of historic charm and modern innovation. The city is known for its high quality of life, sustainable practices, and rich cultural heritage. From its iconic colorful buildings lining Nyhavn to the historic Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen offers a unique living experience for those who choose to call it home.

A City of Cyclists

One of the first things you'll notice about Copenhagen is its deep-rooted cycling culture. The city boasts over 375 kilometers of dedicated bike lanes, making it one of the most bicycle-friendly cities globally. Whether it's rain or shine, locals prefer hopping on their bikes to commute, run errands, or simply enjoy the city's scenic beauty.

Sustainable Living

Copenhagen has set an ambitious goal to become the world's first carbon-neutral capital by 2025. The city's commitment to green living is evident in its urban planning, with an emphasis on green spaces, renewable energy, and waste reduction. The city's initiatives make it easier for residents to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle.

A Hub of Culinary Delights

The Danish concept of 'hygge', which translates to a sense of cozy contentment, often finds its expression in Copenhagen's culinary scene. The city boasts an array of cafes, bakeries, and restaurants that serve everything from traditional Danish smørrebrød to gourmet international cuisines. Let's not forget that Copenhagen is home to Noma, frequently dubbed the world's best restaurant.

Rich Cultural Tapestry

Copenhagen is a city steeped in history and culture. The Royal Danish Theater, the Opera House, and the multitude of museums, such as the National Museum and the Danish Design Museum, provide rich insights into Denmark's artistic and historical heritage.

Cost of Living

While Copenhagen offers a high quality of life, it comes with a price. The cost of living in the city is relatively high, especially when it comes to housing and dining out. However, many find the city's unparalleled social benefits, like free healthcare and education, balance out the expenses.

Language and Social Integration

While Danish is the official language, a large portion of Copenhagen's population speaks fluent English. This is especially true among the younger generation and professionals. However, learning a bit of Danish can go a long way in social integration and deepening one's connection with the city's culture.

Teacher Stories

Sarah from Canada

Sarah, originally from Toronto, Canada, always had a fascination with Scandinavian culture. "I had studied Danish literature during my undergraduate years and was drawn to the depth and simplicity of the region's stories." When the opportunity to teach English in Copenhagen presented itself, she grabbed it. "The initial days were a mix of excitement and apprehension. But soon, I was cycling around the city, enjoying 'fika' breaks with colleagues, and sharing stories about the Aurora Borealis."

Jack from Australia

Growing up in Sydney, Australia, Jack was used to the sun, sand, and surf. The decision to move to Copenhagen was driven by love - both for his Danish partner and for teaching. "The kids here are amazing. They're keen to learn and have a unique perspective, often blending their local knowledge with global contexts. Plus, experiencing snowfall for the first time while teaching was surreal!"

Aisha from South Africa

For Aisha, a Johannesburg native, the transition to Copenhagen's climate was a shock, but the warmth of its people made up for it. "Back home, I'd heard tales of the reserved Scandinavians. But in my classroom and the local community, I found openness and a genuine interest in my South African roots. We often draw parallels between Zulu and Danish folk tales in class."

Liam from New Zealand

Liam's journey from Wellington, New Zealand to Copenhagen was fueled by his passion for history. "Teaching English in a city that's home to centuries-old palaces and structures is a dream. Every history lesson becomes so tangible." The weekends saw him exploring the city's landmarks, often with a group of eager students in tow.

Maeve from Ireland

Maeve, hailing from Dublin, Ireland, found in Copenhagen a city that resonated with her love for music. "The city's music scene is eclectic. From traditional Danish tunes to global chartbusters, there's always something happening." She often integrates music into her teaching methods, making learning English a rhythmic experience for her students.

Moving Towards Teaching English In Copenhagen

Teaching English in Copenhagen is more than just a profession; it's an experience, a journey of cultural exchange and learning. The city, with its blend of historical richness and modern innovation, provides a unique backdrop for educators from all over the world. Whether it's the joy of witnessing the first snowfall, the thrill of cycling through winding city lanes, or the satisfaction of watching a student grasp a new concept - teaching in Copenhagen is filled with moments that stay with you long after the lesson ends.

Copenhagen's embrace is wide and welcoming. It's a place where stories from different parts of the world intertwine, creating a tapestry of shared experiences and learnings. If you're considering making the move, know that the city awaits you with open arms and countless tales waiting to be told.