Teach in Saint Lucia

Because English is the official language of St. Lucia, there are fewer opportunities for TEFL teachers to find employment in St. Lucia, however any major city in St. Lucia will have an English language institute. Certified teachers will find opportunities across the island.

Education in Saint Lucia is categorized by four segments: infant, primary, secondary, and tertiary.

Options for teaching in St. Lucia

Certified teachers can find positions teaching in St. Lucia in private international schools that follow various international curriculums, though positions are competitive. These teaching positions require a degree in a relevant field and relevant professional experience. Private schools also require their teachers to possess a teaching license.

Public school classes are conducted in English, and so certified teachers interested in teaching overseas could find positions in government-funded schools as well, though these positions are significantly more limited.
Teachers with a TEFL certification looking for work in St. Lucia will find the majority of the opportunities are in and around the capital, Castries.

Trying to find a position teaching in St. Lucia can be competitive. Teachers from English-speaking countries are generally preferred. A Bachelor’s degree is required for both certified teachers and ESL teachers, but certified teachers will also need to produce a valid teaching license in their state or country of origin. ESL teachers will need a TEFL certification.

Visas in St. Lucia

A working visa is mandatory in order to teach in St. Lucia. Teachers who want to work in St. Lucia need a work permit before undertaking paid employment. Teach Away placement coordinators will work with educational institutions or teachers directly to organize the visa application.

Some teaching packages include benefits like health insurance, vacation and sick days, and completion bonuses. Flights to and from St. Lucia are usually at the expense of the teacher, though some schools may cover this cost.

Cost of living

The cost of living in St. Lucia is generally lower than the US and much lower than the majority of other islands in the Caribbean. Local currency in St. Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, which has a fixed exchange rate of XCD $2.67 = US $1.00. American money and major credit cards are accepted at most grocery stores and restaurants.

Teaching in Aruba is a good opportunity to do some local travel and maybe even save a bit of money by the end of the contract if you maintain a modest lifestyle.

Housing in St. Lucia

Housing is usually not included as part of a teaching benefits package, although most schools will provide assistance in helping teachers find an apartment before arrival. Rent in the capital city can be around $400 USD for a single-dweller one bedroom apartment, which is generally cheaper than neighboring islands.

Things for teachers to do in St. Lucia

Just south of the old capital city, Soufriere, teachers can take a day trip to the Sulfur Springs, which are one of the island’s main attractions. Don’t forget your bathing suit!

For those looking to catch a glimpse at some of the most astounding views in the Caribbean, including the twin Pitons, the striking cone-shaped peaks that St. Lucia is famous for can enjoy a rainforest hike. There are many options across the island. Many people climb the Gros Piton (the larger of the two peaks), which takes about two hours to reach the 2,6000 ft summit.

Any number of St. Lucia’s beaches boast exceptional snorkeling opportunities, so take a day off on the weekend to explore the abundant coastlines.

Many private schools in Saint Lucia require applicants to possess a TEFL certificate. The University of Toronto’s TEFL Online Certificate can help you become a leading candidate for some of the top Saint Lucian private school positions.

Register for a teacher account to apply for teaching jobs in St. Lucia.