TEFL jobs in Italy

In Italy, most English teaching jobs are still found in private language institutes, as public schools mainly hire EU citizens and qualified Italian nationals. Private schools remain the best entry point for international TEFL teachers. Opportunities exist in Montessori schools, private boarding schools, business schools for professionals, and international schools in larger cities. Many schools now also offer hybrid (in-person and online) learning, creating additional work opportunities. Adult learners continue to make up a large proportion of students, with growing demand for Business English and exam preparation. Some private schools also run summer programmes, which can provide extra work after the school year ends.

Teaching private lessons remains one of the most popular ways to supplement income in Italy, particularly in urban centres where demand is high. In 2025, rates for private tutoring typically range between €15 and €35 per hour, with higher rates possible in larger cities such as Milan, Florence, or Rome. Many teachers continue to work with university students or professionals preparing for English exams or improving workplace communication. With the high cost of living in Italy, private tutoring is often essential for teachers to boost their earnings. Group classes and online tutoring platforms have also become increasingly common, offering more flexible options for both teachers and learners.

Summer camps in Italy, such as EDUCO and other cultural exchange programmes still provide excellent short-term opportunities for TEFL teachers, especially those new to teaching abroad. These camps typically run from June to September and focus on immersive, activity-based English learning for children and teenagers. Camps are held across Italy, from big cities to rural towns, giving teachers the chance to travel while gaining classroom and group management experience. For many, this serves as a gateway into longer-term teaching positions in Italy.

Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples, Bologna, Venice, and Turin remain popular, with growing demand also in southern regions such as Sicily, Calabria, and Puglia, as well as coastal areas like Sardinia and the Adriatic Coast. Opportunities can be found nationwide.

Salaries vary significantly for English teachers in Italy depending on the type of school, location and qualifications and experience etc. However, a typical salary for a full-time position is around €1,200 to €1,400 per month.

Wages tend to be higher in northern Italy than in the south, but the cost of living is often lower in smaller towns and rural areas.

Can be very lucrative, and private tutoring in English is a great way to make extra money. Hourly wages vary, and some schools may try to pay you less than what you deserve. €12 an hour is standard, but in some places, you can expect more like €25 per hour. Summer school positions will pay around €250 per week.

A 120-hour TEFL certificate is the minimum requirement. A bachelor’s degree is preferred by many schools but is not always mandatory.

Many jobs have a preference for degree holders.

The academic year in Italy is made up of two semesters. The first semester starts in September and ends in February. The second semester begins in February and ends in June.

International Language Schools, Government Schools, Private Schools, Private Tutoring, Summer Camps.

None

Most jobs require some experience, and elite jobs will ask for several years of teaching experience.