Teach English in Haiphong, Vietnam (2024)

Nestled on Vietnam's northeastern coast, Haiphong is a city where maritime traditions are interwoven with colonial remnants and modern vigor. As the country's third-largest city, Haiphong stands out as an essential port city, facilitating major trade routes for centuries. Beyond its economic importance, the city is characterized by tree-lined boulevards, timeless French colonial architecture, and a series of tranquil lakes and parks. Its proximity to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, adds to its allure, offering breathtaking natural beauty just a stone's throw away.

While it may not have the global recognition of Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, Haiphong's blend of heritage, development, and cultural richness makes it an inviting destination for ESL teachers.

Reasons to Teach English in Haiphong

Emerging Demand for English: With Haiphong's strategic significance in trade and its continuous development as a hub for industries, there's a growing demand for English proficiency among its residents. This has led to a surge in English language schools and programs, opening up numerous opportunities for teachers.
Cultural Immersion: Unlike some of Vietnam's more tourist-centric locales, Haiphong offers a more authentic experience of Vietnamese culture. Teaching here allows educators to immerse themselves deeply in local traditions and customs.
Cost of Living: While Haiphong is a major city, its cost of living remains relatively lower compared to Vietnam's bigger cities, making it easier for teachers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle and save money.
Proximity to Natural Beauty: Haiphong serves as a gateway to Halong Bay, one of the world's most iconic natural landscapes. Teachers can easily embark on weekend excursions to explore the bay's emerald waters and limestone karsts.
Historical and Architectural Splendors: The city is home to a wealth of historical sites and colonial-era architecture. Exploring landmarks like the Du Hang Pagoda or the Haiphong Opera House can be both leisurely and educational.
Warm Community: The local community in Haiphong is known for its warmth and hospitality. As a teacher, building connections and friendships with locals can be one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.
Growth Opportunities: As the demand for English continues to rise, so do opportunities for career advancement. Teachers can progress to more senior roles, take on private tuitions, or even get involved in curriculum development.

Understanding Haiphong's Education Landscape

Haiphong, while deeply rooted in its maritime traditions, is forward-looking in its approach to education. As the city becomes more integrated with global trade and industries, there's an increasing emphasis on education, especially English proficiency. Haiphong boasts a diverse range of educational institutions:

Public Schools: English is being incorporated into the curriculum at a younger age, reflecting the government's emphasis on language proficiency.
Private Language Centers: These have mushroomed across the city in response to the growing demand for English learning outside the formal education system. They cater to students of all ages and often run evening or weekend classes.
International Schools: Serving the expatriate community and affluent locals, these schools offer international curricula and place a strong emphasis on English proficiency.
Universities: Local universities are steadily expanding their English-taught programs, leading to opportunities for teachers to engage with older students and even professionals.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Haiphong

While the general requirements to teach English in Vietnam are consistent across the country, it's essential to familiarize oneself with the specifics when considering a move to Haiphong.

Here's a concise rundown for those eyeing opportunities in Haiphong:

A bachelor's degree is a staple requirement, though exceptions exist for those with extensive teaching experience (5 years or more).
Being a native English speaker from countries like the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, or Ireland is highly desirable. Non-native speakers should have an English proficiency certificate, like the IELTS.
A TEFL certificate, while not mandatory everywhere, strengthens one's application, and certain schools in Haiphong might insist on it.
Prior teaching experience can be a valuable asset but isn't a strict necessity.
A clean criminal background check is imperative.
Physical and mental fitness are essential, typically verified through a basic health check.
An appreciation for Vietnamese culture and an enthusiasm for living in Haiphong can be invaluable.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Haiphong

Salaries in Haiphong, like most places, are influenced by the institution type, one's qualifications, and experience. Given Haiphong's strategic importance and growing demand for English, educators can expect competitive compensation:

Public Schools: Typically offer between 32 million - 45 million VND per month.
Private Language Schools: Salaries range from 28 million to 40 million VND per month.
International Schools: These institutions tend to offer the most lucrative packages, with monthly salaries between 45 million VND to 54 million VND.
Universities: Depending on the program and one's credentials, teachers can expect anywhere between 23 million to 49 million VND per month.
Private English Lessons: Private tutoring is another avenue, with rates usually ranging from 350,000 to 1.3 million VND per hour.

Apart from the basic salary, many schools in Haiphong offer additional benefits like health insurance, and end-of-contract bonuses. The relatively lower cost of living in the city ensures that teachers can maintain a comfortable lifestyle and even save a significant portion of their earnings.

Living in Haiphong

Living in Haiphong offers a unique blend of urban modernity with a touch of old-world charm. As Vietnam's primary port city, Haiphong pulsates with an energy distinct from the country's more popular metropolises. It's a place where you're just as likely to stumble upon French colonial architecture as you are a bustling market filled with the freshest seafood. Here's a deeper dive into life in this vibrant city:

Historical Significance: Haiphong's rich history is evident in its many architectural landmarks. The Haiphong Opera House, a relic of French Indochina, stands as a testament to the city's storied past.
Culinary Delights: Given its coastal location, it's no surprise that Haiphong is a paradise for seafood lovers. The city is renowned for its fresh and delectable dishes, from crab and shrimp to various fish delicacies. Don't miss the local specialty, "Bánh đậu xanh," a mung bean pastry.
Natural Attractions: Besides its proximity to Halong Bay, Haiphong is home to the Cat Ba Island, a popular destination for both nature and adventure enthusiasts. The city also boasts beautiful lakes and parks, like Tam Bac Lake, offering tranquil spots for relaxation.
Local Transportation: While motorbikes remain the primary mode of transportation (as is the case in most of Vietnam), Haiphong's grid-like layout and broader streets make it relatively easier to navigate. Public buses are also available, and they are both affordable and efficient.
Cultural Festivals: Haiphong's calendar is dotted with numerous festivals, most notably the Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival, which draws tourists and locals alike. These events offer a profound insight into the region's customs and traditions.
Cost of Living: Haiphong, despite its significance as a major city, offers a lower cost of living compared to cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you're dining out, shopping, or renting an apartment, you'll often find that your money goes further in Haiphong.
Community: The people of Haiphong are known for their warm hospitality. As a foreigner, you'll find the locals to be approachable and eager to engage, making it easier to forge meaningful connections and immerse yourself in the community.

Teacher Stories

1. Rebecca from the UK:
Fresh out of university and filled with wanderlust, Rebecca ventured to Haiphong in search of an authentic Vietnamese experience. She found more than just a job at a private language school; she discovered a community that welcomed her with open arms. The local delicacies soon became her comfort food, and motorbike rides through Haiphong's streets turned into her daily adventures. Today, two years on, she's not just teaching English but also learning Vietnamese, embracing the local culture in its entirety.

2. James from Australia:
James had taught in bustling Hanoi for a year before the allure of a coastal city drew him to Haiphong. What stood out to him was the city's balanced pace. While the energy of a significant port city was palpable, the tranquility offered by its lakes and nearby natural attractions provided the respite he sought. Through his teaching, he also connected with a group of local musicians, leading to weekend jam sessions and a deep dive into Vietnam's music scene.

3. Siyanda from South Africa:
Siyanda's journey to Haiphong was driven by a quest for personal growth. She chose the city for its rich history and its emerging demand for English teachers. Over time, she not only grew professionally, securing a senior role in an international school, but she also found personal growth, learning the art of Vietnamese cooking and becoming a part of a local book club.

4. Liam and Ava from Canada:
This dynamic duo, both passionate about travel and education, found their calling in Haiphong's public schools. While they initially grappled with the language barrier, their perseverance led to heartwarming stories of connection—like the time they were invited to a student's home for the Lunar New Year celebrations. Their journey in Haiphong is a testament to the enriching experiences that await those willing to step out of their comfort zones.

Moving Towards Teaching English In Haiphong

Haiphong, with its unique blend of maritime energy and cultural depth, beckons those willing to embark on an ESL teaching journey with a difference. It's a city that promises both professional growth and personal enrichment. Haiphong is more than just a destination—it's a home waiting to be discovered.

Whether you're a fresh graduate or a seasoned educator, whether you're seeking adventure or a deeper connection with a new culture, Haiphong offers opportunities that are as varied as they are rewarding. Beyond the classroom, there's a world of experiences waiting: from the historic charm of colonial-era buildings to the natural allure of Cat Ba Island.

If you're considering a move to teach English in Vietnam, Haiphong stands out as a destination that combines the best of what the country offers. With its warm community, emerging educational landscape, and the rich tapestry of experiences it presents, the journey towards teaching in Haiphong is not just about imparting knowledge—it's about building memories that last a lifetime.