Teach English in the United Kingdom – Summer 2026
Program Highlights
Are you interested in spending the summer in the United Kingdom while gaining international teaching experience? This summer teaching program allows Canadians to work at English language summer centres welcoming students from around the world.
This program includes:
- Paid teaching positions at UK summer language centres
- Support with visa guidance and preparation
- Pre-departure guidance and resources
- Professional teaching experience with international students
- The opportunity to travel and explore the UK during your time abroad (the visa is for 12 months, so you can stay after your complete your contract and travel around or explore additional job opportunities)
Application Timeline
March–May
Submit your application to express interest in summer teaching opportunities in the UK. Eligible candidates will be invited to complete the interview.
May–June
Successful candidates receive placement offers and begin preparing visa documentation and submit your UK Youth Mobility visa application.
June–August
Arrive in the UK and begin your teaching placement.
Note: Timelines are approximate and may vary slightly depending on individual circumstances and processing times.
Teaching English in the UK
As a Summer English Teacher, you will deliver engaging lessons to international students in a supportive and dynamic learning environment. You will work alongside experienced staff and receive guidance from the Director of Studies at the summer centre. This teaching program includes:
- Contracts of up to 6 weeks
- Classes of up to 18 students
- Approximately 15 hours of teaching per week
- Total working hours typically 15–40 hours per week depending on program
- Additional time allocated for lesson preparation and meetings
- Opportunities to participate in excursions and cultural activities
Requirements
- Canadian citizen aged 18 or older
- Eligible to work in the UK through the UK Youth Mobility (Working Holiday) visa
- Bachelor’s degree from a recognized Canadian university
- TEFL/TESOL certificate including:
- Minimum 100 hours of training
- Minimum 6 hours of supervised teaching practice
- RCMP Criminal Record Check
- Accepted qualifications include:
- CELTA (Cambridge)
- Trinity CertTESOL
- TEFL/TESOL certificates from accredited training providers
- Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) or provincial teaching certification
Compensation & Benefits
- Weekly salary: approximately £508 per week
- Residential accommodation with meals
- Accommodation deduction: approximately £77.70 per week for full board
- Paid lesson preparation time and professional development sessions
- Holiday pay (12.07%) paid at the end of the contract
- At least one day off per week
- If student numbers require fewer teaching hours, teachers may assist with student supervision or pastoral activities.
UK Youth Mobility Visa Requirements
Canadian citizens must obtain a UK Youth Mobility Scheme visa in order to work legally in the United Kingdom. This visa allows Canadians aged 18–35 to live and work in the UK for up to two years. You do not need a job offer to apply for this visa.
Visa Requirements
To apply for the Youth Mobility visa, Canadian applicants must:
- Hold a valid Canadian passport
- Be 18–35 years old
- Pay the visa application fee (approximately £319)
- Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for the full visa period. The health surcharge is currently £776 per year, which gives visa holders access to the UK National Health Service (NHS).
- Show proof of funds of £2,530 ≈ $4,300–$4,500 CAD (depending on exchange rates). You do NOT need to pay this amount; it’s the UK government requirement to show that you will be able to support yourself during your stay.
Required Documents
- Applicants will generally need to provide:
- Passport
- Visa application and fee payment
- Immigration Health Surcharge payment
- Proof of identity and qualifications
- RCMP Criminal Record Check (required by the employer)
Why Prepare Early?
UK summer teaching contracts are short-term, but the visa process requires advance planning. Preparing documents early can help ensure you are ready to apply for positions and avoid delays once placements are confirmed.