2317 — Teachers of english as a foreign language

Higher Skilled

Sources checked 26 October 2026. Match the actual duties before choosing a code.

Related job titles

What this occupation covers

Teachers of English as a foreign language teach students to speak and write the English language, either for the first time or building on their existing knowledge.

Typical duties


teaches English as a foreign language and assists in the tuition of foreign languages

plans and prepares language lessons and materials

encourages conversations in English to improve students confidence and understanding

sets and marks tests and gives feedback on student's performance

organises students' participation in cultural activities and social events

Entry routes and qualifications

There are no pre-set academic entry requirements, however, many employers may require you to have a Teaching English as a Foreign Language course. TEFL courses require students to be 18 and to have a good level of English. A DBS check may be required.

Sponsorship information

Higher Skilled. Actual duties, sponsor, applicant, salary and any transitional or shortage-list conditions must be checked.

Full Table 1 going rate: £36,200 at 37.5 hours. The applicable salary requirement can differ: use the calculator.

DBS assessment

Commonly assessed for DBS eligibility. Check actual duties, activities, workplace, frequency and jurisdiction. This code does not determine the level of check.

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ONS SOC 2020 · Appendix Skilled Occupations