Moving to Spain to teach English is an exciting, life-changing adventure, but it also comes with plenty of surprises. From many cultural differences in the classroom to unexpected challenges, as well as amazing travel opportunities, my time in Barcelona has been a whirlwind of learning and discovery. Here are some of the biggest cultural shocks, tips for moving to Spain, my favourite weekend getaways from Barcelona, and what I went through during my TEFL experience in Spain.
Cultural Shocks: What Surprised Me Most About Spanish Schools
Teaching in a Spanish school is nothing like the classrooms I am familiar with in England. One of the first differences that stood out to me was the level of affection shared between students and teachers. In Spain, students often greet their teachers with big hugs, playful jokes, and an overall warmth that makes the classroom feel closer to a family. Whilst this was a big adjustment from the more formal relationships I was used to, it has become something I have grown to love at my school.
Another big difference is the structure of the school day. In primary schools, students have a different teacher for almost every subject, even from a young age. This was a major contrast to the primary schools in England I was used to, where you have the same teacher all day for all your subjects! This structure keeps the day interesting, dynamic, and exciting for both the students and the teachers.
A final aspect about Spanish schools that surprised me was the timings of the day. Many Spanish schools start later in the day compared to schools in England and tend to have a longer break in the middle of the day for lunch and a siesta. This definitely made the school day feel a lot more relaxed than in the UK.
Things I Wish I Knew Before My TEFL Experience in Spain
While moving abroad is an incredible experience, there are definitely things I wish I had known before:
- Basic Spanish (or Catalan!) Goes a Long Way – While many people in Barcelona do speak English, knowing even a little of the local language can make day-to-day life much easier, as well as appealing to the local residents. From navigating the bureaucracy to ordering in restaurants, a few key phrases can make all the difference.
- Expect a Different Pace of Life – Everything in Spain moves at a slower pace. While this may seem annoying at first (especially when it comes to paperwork and bureaucratic processes), try to embrace it. There can be so much beauty and appreciation in a slower life, where you’re not in a rush and can really enjoy all the little things.
- Making Friends Takes Time – There are so many ways for you to make friends, whether that’s with other Meddeas teachers, flat shares, clubs, or language exchanges. It’s easy to meet people, but don’t worry if it’s not instant! Remember the power of saying ‘Yes!’ and soon, everything will fall into place.
Best Weekend and Day Trips from Barcelona
One of the best parts of living in Barcelona is its location and how easy it is to visit other places. It’s perfect for quick, easy, and cheap getaways. Here are some of my favourites:
Montserrat
Just an hour on the train from Barcelona, this stunning mountain formation is perfect for hikes, breathtaking views, or exploring the famous monastery. A must visit!
Girona
This charming medieval city is only 40 minutes by train from Barcelona. It has stunning old-town streets, a long city wall walk, Game of Thrones filming locations, and some amazing food.
Sitges
A picturesque coastal town 30 minutes outside of Barcelona, Sitges is known for its beautiful beaches as well as its charming old town. It’s the perfect place to relax by the sea or explore its lively atmosphere.
