Teach English in Sardinia, Italy (2024)

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia is a radiant jewel of Italy that has long captivated travelers with its rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and enduring traditions. As the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, it boasts a rich tapestry of history, having been touched by multiple cultures over millennia, from the ancient Nuragic civilization to the Phoenicians, Romans, and beyond. Today, Sardinia remains a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary life, with its residents speaking both Italian and Sardinian. While known primarily for its tourism, there's a growing demand for English education, making it a splendid destination for those looking to teach.

Reasons to Teach English in Sardinia

Natural Beauty: With its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and rugged mountains, Sardinia offers a daily feast for the eyes. Teachers can spend their weekends exploring the hidden coves of the Costa Smeralda or hiking in the Gennargentu mountains.
Rich Culture & Traditions: Sardinia's deep-rooted customs provide a fascinating backdrop for living and teaching. From traditional dances to the island's famous 'Cantus' singing, you'll be immersed in a culture that's distinct from mainland Italy.
Growing Demand for English: As tourism continues to flourish, there's a rising demand for English proficiency among locals. This offers ample opportunities for English teachers, particularly in towns catering to international visitors.
Delicious Cuisine: Sardinian food is a delightful blend of Italian and Mediterranean flavors. From seafood-rich dishes like "fregola con arselle" to hearty meals like "porceddu" (roasted piglet), your taste buds are in for a treat.
Community Feel: The Sardinian way of life is very community-oriented. As a teacher, you'll find yourself quickly integrated into local life, with warm and welcoming residents eager to share their traditions and stories.
Ancient History: For history enthusiasts, Sardinia is a treasure trove. The island is dotted with ancient Nuragic towers, remnants of early Bronze Age civilization, offering a captivating glimpse into the past.
Affordable Living: Compared to some of Italy's more tourist-heavy destinations, Sardinia offers a relatively affordable cost of living. This is especially true if you venture outside the main tourist hubs.
Language Exchange: Living in Sardinia provides a unique opportunity to not only teach English but also to learn or refine your Italian and even pick up some Sardinian along the way.

Understanding Sardinia's Education Landscape

Sardinia, much like the rest of Italy, has a rich history of education and places a high value on learning. The education system here is a part of the larger Italian framework, structured into primary, lower secondary, and upper secondary stages, followed by higher education. English, as a second language, is introduced at the primary level and its importance is increasingly recognized due to the island's burgeoning tourism industry. In urban centers like Cagliari, there are a handful of international schools and language institutes, but even in smaller towns, there's a growing interest in learning English. This is where TEFL and TESOL teachers come into play. They often find positions in private language schools, provide tutoring services, or even assist in public schools.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Sardinia

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

Bachelor’s Degree: Most schools and institutes prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree, although the field of study is not always crucial.
TEFL or TESOL Certification: A TEFL or TESOL certification is typically necessary, especially for those without a degree in education or prior teaching experience.
Native English Speaker: While native speakers from countries like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, etc., are often preferred, non-native speakers with strong proficiency and relevant qualifications can also find opportunities.
Basic Italian Proficiency: While not always mandatory, having a grasp of basic Italian can be beneficial, especially when interacting with students, staff, and parents.
Teaching Experience: Some institutions might prefer candidates with prior teaching experience, although many language schools are open to hiring those new to the profession, especially if they display enthusiasm and aptitude.
Work Visa: Non-EU citizens will require a work visa to teach in Sardinia. It's crucial to research and meet the necessary requirements, often secured once a job offer is in place.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Sardinia

Teaching English in Sardinia can be a rewarding experience, both culturally and financially. Here's a general overview of what you can expect:

Salary: On average, English teachers can expect to earn between €800 to €1,500 per month, depending on their qualifications, the type of institution, and hours worked.
Healthcare: If employed full-time, teachers can expect to have access to Italy's public healthcare system.
Vacation: Teachers typically enjoy national holidays off and may also receive paid vacation during Christmas, Easter, and the summer months, especially if working in public schools.
Contract Duration: Contracts can vary, with some being as short as three months (often in summer schools) to a full academic year.
Additional Benefits: Some schools might offer additional benefits like end-of-contract bonuses, transportation allowances, or even Italian language lessons.

While the cost of living in Sardinia is generally lower than in cities like Rome or Milan, it's essential to budget wisely, especially if you plan to travel and explore the island's many offerings.

Living in Sardinia

Sardinia, a Mediterranean gem, is Italy's second-largest island, renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and distinctive culture. Living in Sardinia offers a blend of coastal serenity and vibrant local traditions. If you're considering making the move to teach English here, understanding the island's lifestyle can be helpful.

The Sardinian Lifestyle

Natural Beauty: With its pristine beaches, rugged mountains, and dense forests, Sardinia offers a unique environment for nature lovers. Popular beaches like Costa Smeralda are a must-visit, and the Gennargentu National Park provides a haven for hiking and nature walks.
Cuisine: Sardinian cuisine is a treat for the senses. With an emphasis on fresh seafood, lamb, and local cheeses like pecorino, you'll be introduced to a range of mouth-watering dishes. Not to forget, the local Cannonau wine, believed by some to be a secret to the Sardinians' longevity.
Cultural Festivals: Throughout the year, Sardinia hosts numerous festivals, including the famous Carnival of Sardinia. These festivals are a blend of religious traditions, local folklore, and vibrant celebrations.
Cost of Living: Generally, the cost of living in Sardinia is more affordable than in Italy's mainland cities. However, touristy areas can be pricier, especially during the peak season.
Language: While Italian is the official language, many Sardinians also speak Sardo, the island's native language. As an English teacher, you'll find that learning a bit of Italian (or even Sardo) can enrich your experience and help in daily interactions.
Historical Sites: Sardinia is dotted with nuraghi – ancient stone dwellings that date back to the Bronze Age. The island's rich history is evident in its archeological sites, museums, and preserved old towns.
Transportation: While larger cities like Cagliari have public transportation systems, including buses and trains, many parts of Sardinia are best explored with a car. This provides the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Community: Sardinians are known for their hospitality. As an expatriate, you'll often find locals eager to share their traditions, stories, and culinary delights.

Living Essentials

Housing: Renting an apartment in Sardinia varies based on location. Coastal areas and city centers are generally more expensive. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center might cost between €400 to €700 per month.
Utilities: Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, can range from €80 to €150 for an 85m2 apartment.
Internet: Monthly fees for broadband internet can be around €25 to €35.
Groceries: Local markets in Sardinia offer fresh produce, meats, and dairy. Shopping local and in-season can be more affordable than purchasing imported goods.

Teacher Stories

Emma from Australia:

"When I first landed in Sardinia, it was the turquoise waters and the rugged landscapes that caught my eye. But as I started my journey as an English teacher here, I discovered a lot more than just natural beauty. The Sardinian kids were eager to learn, and their enthusiasm was infectious. I found myself picking up bits of Italian and Sardo, thanks to my friendly colleagues and neighbors. Weekends were spent exploring hidden beaches, attending local festivals, and indulging in the island's delightful cuisine. While I initially planned on staying for a year, Sardinia has become my second home."

Jake from USA:

"I was used to the hustle and bustle of New York, so moving to Sardinia was a welcome change of pace. Teaching English here has its set of challenges, especially when trying to engage older students. But the rewards? Absolutely worth it. From watching a student's face light up when they string together a correct English sentence to being invited over for a traditional Sardinian meal by a student's family – every day brings something new."

Siobhan from Ireland:

"Before moving to Sardinia, all I knew about the island was its reputation for stunning beaches. But living here has been a cultural immersion. The island's rich history, embodied in the ancient nuraghi and local folklore, is fascinating. Teaching English in a place where language is so deeply rooted in tradition gives you a different perspective. Plus, the local Cannonau wine is a bonus!"

Tendai from South Africa:

"My journey from Johannesburg to Sardinia was a leap of faith. And boy, did it pay off! The warmth of the Sardinian people is unparalleled. In the classroom, students are eager, curious, and full of energy. Outside, the island offers an array of experiences, from hiking trails to historical sites. It's been a fulfilling journey, both as a teacher and as an individual seeking adventure."

Moving Towards Teaching English In Sardinia

In the heart of the Mediterranean, Sardinia stands as a beacon of cultural richness and natural splendor. While it's known for its beaches and landscapes, the real treasures are its people and traditions. As an English teacher, the opportunity to contribute to this vibrant community, to influence young minds, and to be influenced in return is unparalleled.

Teaching in Sardinia isn't just about imparting knowledge; it's about an exchange. An exchange of languages, cultures, stories, and experiences. And as our teachers' stories reflect, it's an experience that stays with you, long after your teaching stint is over.

If you're contemplating teaching English abroad, Sardinia offers a unique blend of professional growth and personal enrichment. As you step into the classroom, and as you explore the island's winding roads, hidden beaches, and ancient ruins, you're not just teaching – you're learning, evolving, and becoming a part of a story that's centuries old.