Teaching Placements - Cambodia
Everything you need to know about teaching placements in Cambodia - from salaries and working hours to classroom environments and top cities for educators.
Teaching Placement Overview
Salary range in USD per month | $900 - $1600 USD for degree holders* $700 - $1500 for non-degree holders *
* May fluctuate due to exchange rate volatility. |
Salary local currency per month | 2.8 - 6.1 million Riel |
Saving potential in USD per month | $200 - $500+ |
Employment Type | Full-time |
Contract Length | 1 year |
Placement Types | Private schools |
Classroom Audience | Kindergarten, Primary (elementary and middle), High school students |
Classroom Age | Between 4 - 12 |
Classroom Size | 15-25 |
Working Hours per week | 22 - 30 |
Days off | 2 days per week but may not be consecutive |
Holidays / Paid Leave | 18 days paid vacation and approximately 20 public holidays. |
Tax rate range for teachers | 10-15% |
Visa | Business Visa |
Initial Enrollment to Arrival | 3 Months Minimum |
Top Placement Locations | 1. Phnom Penh 2. Siem Reap 3. Krong Poi Pet 4. Battambang 5. Serei Saophoan |
Teaching Placements
English Teachers in Cambodia teach mainly in private schools.
Most people in Cambodia send their children to private schools as the quality of public-school education is very low.
There may also be limited language school classes.
Teaching Hours
Teaching hours differ between the two.
Language schools are busiest Saturday and Sunday so teachers work many classes on the weekends and then have time off during the week.
Private and international schools usually run Monday to Friday and so teachers work during the week and have the weekends off.
Note that for language schools teaching days vary from 5 to 6 days of teaching per week. If teaching 6 days per week, the teacher is given multiple paid vacation days to offset.
Teaching hours per week range from 22 to 30 or 4.5 to 6 hours of teaching per day.
Most positions are teaching young learners but there are also some high school positions.
It is important to note that teachers in Cambodia will be expected to teach other subjects through English, such as math, science, health, gym, art, etc. If asked to teach other subjects, these subjects would all be taught in English. If the school requires the teacher to teach another subject, this will be made known to the teacher when the interview opportunity is presented.
Schools provide an English teaching curriculum for teachers to follow.
Class sizes range from 15 to 25 students.
Salaries
You’ll earn within the range of $700 – $1,500 USD * for non degree holders and $900 – $1,600 USD * for degree holders per month depending on your qualifications, experience and placement location.
This will comfortably cover your living expenses and weekend adventures due to the low cost of living.
General salary range:
- Non degree holders: $700 – $1500 *
- Degree holders: $900 – $1,600 *
* USD amounts may fluctuate due to exchange rate volatility.
Taxes
All participants will pay taxes in Cambodia of 10-15%.
Saving Potential
Saving potential depends strongly on your lifestyle and placement location, but on average the living expenses generally range from $100 – $200 USD.
Teaching Placement Locations
While every effort is made to match your placement requirements, we encourage you to approach your placement with an open mind and embrace the spirit of wanderlust as placements are contingent on available positions at the time of job assignment.
Phnom Penh
The city seamlessly merges contemporary comforts with the allure of ancient traditions.
Teachers will find well-equipped international schools, modern shopping malls, and quality healthcare readily accessible.
Explore its thriving art galleries, lively theaters, and museums brimming with historical artifacts.
Foodies rejoice! The city boasts an eclectic culinary landscape, from the tantalizing aromas of street food vendors to sophisticated fine-dining establishments.
Seek out the vibrant Riverside district for its buzzing nightlife, or unwind amidst the tranquility of lush parks and scenic cruises along the majestic Mekong River.
Siem Reap
Beyond the temples, discover a town brimming with life; explore bustling markets for handcrafted treasures, sample delicious Khmer cuisine, and connect with welcoming locals.
Seeking a rewarding teaching experience? Siem Reap boasts a variety of schools eager to welcome passionate educators.
When you’re not in the classroom, delve into Cambodia’s rich history at museums, unwind at charming cafes, or embark on weekend adventures to nearby waterfalls and floating villages.
Krong Poi Pet
This is a place where cultures collide, and the energy is palpable. While not your typical tourist destination, Krong Poi Pet pulsates with energy.
International schools here welcome dedicated teachers ready to embrace a challenge in a rapidly developing environment.
Explore the lively markets and sample diverse cuisines influenced by the border. Krong Poi Pet is your gateway to under-the-radar Cambodia, a place for bold educators seeking a truly unique experience.
Battambang
This riverside town exudes an artistic charm with its galleries, quirky cafes, and vibrant street art scene.
A growing number of schools provide the chance to make a tangible impact on eager students.
When it’s time to unwind, delve into Battambang’s rich history at its temples and museums, or embark on scenic bike rides through the picturesque countryside.
Enjoy slower evenings filled with delicious food at local markets and the chance to connect with a welcoming community – ideal for educators seeking a fulfilling and balanced life abroad.
Serei Saophoan
Engage with friendly locals in bustling markets, practicing your Khmer and discovering hidden gems.
Several schools cater to the growing community, offering a chance to connect deeply with students and contribute to their education.
After school, find relaxation exploring nearby temples, enjoying simple yet delicious local eateries, or witnessing the beauty of rural Cambodia with excursions into the surrounding countryside.
Serei Saophoan promises an authentic cultural immersion ideal for independent-minded educators seeking to discover the real Cambodia.