A twelve-word sentence. Five words to keep. That’s the simple challenge at the heart of Long Story Short, a free daily word game that English teachers have started using as a class warm-up. The sentence might read: “The famous high profile trial was delayed while the weary judge deliberated.” Your job? Strip it down to the five words that actually ...[Read More]

The online ESL classroom is supposed to be a global marketplace where skills matter most. But the reality is far more complicated. A highly qualified non-native teacher from Asia can be offered just $2 for a 30-minute lesson. Meanwhile, a native English speaker with almost no teaching experience might command $10 or more for the exact same time slo...[Read More]

Applying for China’s Z Visa is an exciting step in your TEFL journey, but the paperwork can quickly become overwhelming. One of the most confusing parts for many teachers is the apostille process—especially when your TEFL certificate comes from a company based in another country. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “How can my UK-issued TEFL cert...[Read More]

For many TEFL teachers, the thought of returning home after years abroad brings a mix of excitement and dread. We build lives overseas—easy jobs, decent salaries, and a rhythm that feels comfortable. So when circumstances require a move back, it’s natural to cling to the familiar expat life you’re leaving behind. One returning teacher recently shar...[Read More]