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Contents
IntroductionUnderstanding the Local Education SectorQualifications* Needed for Teaching in ChennaiWhere to Look for Teaching Jobs in Chennai
  1. Generic Job Listing Websites
  2. Teaching-Specific Websites
  3. School Websites and Local Education Department Sites
Networking and Professional Development OpportunitiesLiving and Working in HyderabadConclusionChaptersFrequently Asked Questions

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Chapter 4

Find Teaching Jobs in Chennai

Introduction

Welcome to Chennai, a city where education takes center stage. It's a place with a rich history in arts and culture, and schools here are all about keeping that tradition alive. If you're a teacher looking for a job that offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, you’ll find it here!
School jobs near me in Chennai”
Chennai has lots of opportunities, whether you're freshly into teaching or are a seasoned pro. In this guide, we'll show you the ropes, from the types of schools you can work at to the best places to find teaching jobs in Chennai. So, grab a cup of filter coffee, and let's dive into Chennai's educational landscape!

Understanding the Local Education Sector

Hunting for teaching jobs in Chennai requires navigating its unique educational landscape. Like setting the foundation for your career, understanding the city's diverse school systems and regulatory bodies is crucial. So, let's delve right into it!

Types of Schools

Public Schools

Chennai has approximately 4761 public schools, constituting about 50% of the educational landscape. These schools are run by the government and follow the Tamil Nadu State Board or the CBSE syllabus.
Some notable public schools include Ramakrishna Mission Schools, Government Model Schools, and Panchayat Union Schools.
What's in it for you: Job security and the chance to make a significant impact on a diverse student body.
Consider this: You might deal with larger class sizes and limited resources, posing challenges to personalized teaching.

Private Schools

Private schools in Chennai, about 3212 in total, make up approximately 34% of all schools in the city. Many follow the CBSE or ICSE syllabus, and some even offer international curriculums like IB or IGCSE.
Some popular names include PSBB Schools, SBOA School, and Chettinad Vidyashram.
Benefits for you: Expect smaller class sizes, better facilities, and more freedom in pedagogical methods.
Challenges to note: The pressure to meet higher performance standards and innovate can be intense.
Schools with teacher vacancies in Chennai

International Schools

There are about 503 international schools in Chennai, making up 5% of all schools. These schools offer curriculums like IB or IGCSE.
Some renowned examples include The School, Krishnamurti Foundation India, and Sri Vidya Academy International School. 
Why you'll love it: These schools provide an opportunity to engage with international educational standards and a multicultural student body.
What to keep in mind: Success here requires adaptability and often experience with or training in international curriculums.
International school teaching jobs in HyderabadBook a 1-1 Call

Special Education Institutions

The city has 814 special education schools, about 9% of the total, dedicated to supporting students with diverse needs.
Examples include The Spastics Society of India - School, Ishwar Sankaran Special School, and Bala Vikasa Kendra.
Your opportunity: A chance to specialize in rewarding, impactful teaching methods tailored to students with special needs.
Something to consider: This sector may require additional qualifications in special education, along with a high degree of patience and empathy.
Note: 1,2,3,4 were last updated on 28th February 2024.

Regulatory Bodies Overseeing Education

Education in Chennai is overseen by the Directorate of School Education (DSE), Tamil Nadu. They set the rules for things like curriculum, teacher qualifications, and how schools operate. Knowing these basics will help you navigate the system smoothly.
Regulatory body overseeing teaching jobs in Chennai

In-Demand Teaching Vacancies

Chennai experiences a constant demand for qualified teachers, especially in core subjects like Maths, Science, English, and Social Studies.
However, the demand for teachers fluent in Tamil is particularly high. So, if you possess fluency in Tamil alongside your teaching qualifications, you'll be even more sought-after by schools in Chennai.

Average Salary

Teacher salaries in Chennai vary depending on the school type, your experience, and qualifications. Public school teachers earn differently than their private or international counterparts. On average, expect a range of ₹15,000 to ₹40,000 per month. It can soar as high as ₹60,000 to ₹1,00,000 for highly qualified and experienced teachers.
School Type Average Salary Range (Annual)
Public Schools ₹1.80 Lakhs - ₹7.00 Lakhs
Private Schools ₹2.30 Lakhs - ₹4.00 Lakhs
International Schools ₹4.50 Lakhs - ₹10.00 Lakhs+
Special Education Schools ₹2.00 Lakhs - ₹5.00 Lakhs
Disclaimer: The salary ranges presented in this table are not determined or endorsed by Suraasa. The information is based on various sources and may vary. We recommend conducting your own research for the most accurate data.
With this understanding of Chennai's educational sector, let's explore the qualifications needed for teaching jobs in Chennai in the next section.

Qualifications* Needed for Teaching in Chennai

Qualifications for teaching jobs in Chennai
If you're eyeing a teaching job in Chennai, here's a breakdown of the qualifications you'll need:

For Public Schools

  • Bachelor’s Degree (any field): Having an undergraduate degree in any subject is mandatory (bonus points if it’s in education or related to your teaching subject).
  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.): Essential for teaching, covering pedagogy and classroom management.
  • Tamil Nadu Teacher Eligibility Test (TNTET): A must for teaching in Tamil Nadu's public schools.

For Private Schools

  • Bachelor’s Degree (any field): Having a degree in your teaching subject is beneficial.
  • Teaching Qualification: Unlike public schools, a B.Ed. is not mandatory. Any teaching qualification, such as a B.Ed. or PgCTL will work.

For International Schools

  • Bachelor's Degree (Any field): While any subject works, some schools prefer a degree related to education or your teaching subject.
  • Internationally recognized Teaching Qualifications: Schools following IB or CAIE curriculums require appropriate international teaching qualifications, eg: PgCTL, PGCE.
Is Teaching in International Schools Your Goal?Book a 1-1 Call

For Special Education Institutions

  • Bachelor's Degree: Preferably in Education or a related field like Special Education.
  • Bachelor of Education (Special Education) (B.Ed. SE): This specialized degree equips you with the knowledge and skills to cater to students with specific learning needs.
  • Additional Certifications: Depending on the specific needs of the school, additional certifications in areas like Sign Language, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), or Learning Disabilities might be required.

Related Resource

Want more guidance on starting a career in Special Education? Read this blog on “How to Become a Special Education Teacher in India” and get going!
*Note: These are general requirements and may vary depending on the specific school and its policies. Always refer to the individual school's website or contact them for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding their required qualifications.
Remember, qualifications are just the first step. Chennai schools seek passionate teachers who are adaptable, innovative, and committed to student growth. Staying updated with the latest teaching methods and continuous learning will make you stand out in the competitive landscape of teaching jobs in Chennai.
Now that we've covered the qualifications let's move on to exploring where to find teaching jobs in Chennai.

Where to Look for Teaching Jobs in Chennai

Finding the right teaching job in Chennai is made easier with various platforms and resources at your disposal. Here are some places to start your search:

1. Generic Job Listing Websites

Platforms like Naukri and Indeed are great for finding a wide range of teaching jobs in Chennai. Simply set your location to Chennai and filter by the education sector.
Teaching jobs near me for freshers

2. Teaching-Specific Websites

Now, if you're eyeing something more tailored, there are platforms out there just for teaching roles. Take Suraasa Jobs, for instance – it's a goldmine for specific teaching positions. But here's the catch: it's exclusive to Suraasa learners. Think of it as a VIP pass to some of the best teaching jobs around, provided you're part of the Suraasa family.
Click here to start exploring Suraasa Jobs right away.

Pro Tip

Set Up Job Alerts
Ensure you don't miss out on your ideal teaching job in Chennai by setting up job alerts on platforms like Suraasa Jobs. This way, you'll be notified as soon as new openings are posted.

3. School Websites and Local Education Department Sites

Many schools in Chennai post job vacancies directly on their websites. Additionally, the official website of the Tamil Nadu Directorate of Education is a useful resource for public school vacancies and other teaching opportunities in the state.
By utilizing these resources and platforms, you'll enhance your chances of finding a suitable teaching job in Chennai. Remember, persistence and networking are key to a successful job search.
Steps for jobs in the education sector
Now, let's explore the networking and professional development opportunities that can further enrich your teaching career in this culturally rich city.

Networking and Professional Development Opportunities

Chennai is not just about idli-dosa and Marina Beach; it's a hub for educational innovation and collaboration. This city offers a wealth of opportunities for teachers to connect, learn, and grow in their profession.

Local Teaching Unions and Professional Organizations

Joining the vibrant Madras Educational Society (MES) or the Tamil Nadu Teachers' Association (TNTA) can be a game-changer. These groups help to connect with fellow teachers, advocate for teachers' rights, and stay updated on educational developments.
Love teaching Science? Connect with the Chennai Chapter of the Science Teachers' Association of India (STAI) to share best practices and resources.
Teaching IB or IGCSE? Network with the Association of IB World Schools in Chennai (AISB) or the Chennai Chapter of the Cambridge Schools Network (CSN) for valuable support and professional development opportunities.
Teacher meetings at unions

Events, Workshops, and Conferences

Mark your calendar for events like the Chennai Education Summit and the Madras Management Association's (MMA) Education Conference. These gatherings offer workshops, talks by renowned education experts, and a chance to meet inspiring educators.
Participate in the Tamil Nadu State Teacher Awards or the National Teachers' Awards to showcase your teaching excellence and get recognized for your dedication.

Related Resource

Can't make time for in-person events? Check out Suraasa's online Masterclasses. Learn from leading educators globally, at no cost, right from your home.

Professional Development Courses

Consider pursuing a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching & Learning (PgCTL) or specialized online courses. These will enhance your teaching skills and knowledge in specific areas.
You can also explore short-term courses to improve particular pedagogy skills like Lesson Planning. Another important aspect of bagging premium teaching jobs in Chennai is English proficiency. Improve your English speaking skills with a short-term course like Speak English Like an International Teacher.

Talk to a Mentor

Feeling unsure about the next steps in your teaching career?
Talk to a mentor for guidance on choosing the right professional development courses to navigate your career path effectively.
Book Your 1-1 Call with a Mentor

Online Communities and Social Media

Join Facebook groups like "Chennai Teachers' Network" or "Teaching Jobs in Chennai" to connect with other educators, share resources, and stay updated on job openings.

Cultural Integrations

Partner with the Government Museum, Egmore, or the Fort St. George Museum to conduct historical tours or integrate art and cultural experiences into your curriculum.
Spark creativity in your students by collaborating with local dance schools or music academies for workshops or performances.
By actively engaging in these networking and professional development opportunities, you will broaden your knowledge and skill set And become a well-connected and recognized member of Chennai's vibrant educational community.
Remember, in this city, learning and growth are a continuous journey, just like the rhythm of the waves lapping against the Marina beach!
Next, let's explore what living and working in Chennai is like in the following section.

Living and Working in Chennai

Chennai, the city buzzing with yummy filter coffee and endless beaches, is calling all awesome teachers like you! Imagine teaching during the day and chilling on Marina Beach, the second-longest beach ever, after school.
Sounds cool, right? Chennai is a mix of old and new, making it the perfect place to live, work, and become a superstar teacher. Let’s explore the cultural nuances of Chennai now.

Language

In Chennai, Tamil is the heartbeat of the city, but English and Hindi are widely spoken too. You'll find it easy to communicate with your students and fellow teachers, no matter where you're from.

Festivals

Chennai's festivals are a riot of colors and flavors. During Pongal in January, the city comes alive with celebrations, and schools usually take a short break. It's a fantastic time to experience local traditions and bond with your community.
Holy places in Chennai

Transportation

Getting around Chennai is a breeze with its efficient public transportation system. The extensive network of MTC buses, readily available auto-rickshaws, and the modern Chennai Metro Rail offer convenient and affordable options for commuting. To further enhance your travel experience, downloading the 'Chennai Metro Rail' app provides real-time information and simplifies navigation.

Accommodation

Whether you're looking for a cozy hostel or a spacious apartment, Chennai has got you covered. Neighborhoods like Adyar and Besant Nagar are favorites among teachers for their peaceful vibe and proximity to schools.

Living Expenses

Living in Chennai involves managing rent, groceries, utilities, and transport expenses thoughtfully. Rent varies greatly depending on location and amenities. Expect to pay around ₹6,000 for a shared room and approx. ₹3,000- ₹5,000 per month for groceries. Utilities might add another ₹2,000-₹4,000 to your monthly budget. 
For transportation, you can rely on the budget-friendly metro or utilize auto-rickshaws, remembering to negotiate fares for the best rates.
Chennai is like a giant playground for teachers, with history, beaches, and friendly people. So, pack your bags, get ready for an amazing adventure, and start your teaching journey in Chennai!
Chennai locals at Marina beach

Conclusion

Chennai superstar teaching people
As Thalaiva Rajinikanth lights up the silver screen, Chennai lights up the lives of teachers with endless opportunities! This city, with its rich cultural tapestry and growing educational landscape, offers a perfect setting for educators to shine.
From traditional schools to modern international institutions, the demand for passionate teachers is always high. 
So, gear up to bring your unique teaching style to Chennai, where every day is a chance to inspire and be inspired. In the words of the superstar himself, "Life is all about taking risks and making a difference." Let Chennai be the stage for your next big act in the world of teaching!

Talk to a Mentor

Want to work in top international schools in Chennai?
Get personalized guidance to navigate your path. Connect with a Suraasa mentor and take the first step towards your dream job.
Schedule My Session

Chapters

Pre-Primary Teacher

1

Assistant Teacher

2

Primary Teacher

3

Post Graduate Teacher

5

Head of Department

6

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary of a B.Ed teacher in Chennai?
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What qualifications are required for teaching jobs in Chennai?
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How can I find teaching jobs in Chennai?
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What are the best areas to live in Chennai for teachers?
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Written By

Aashita Pillai

Aashita is a writer here at Suraasa and has formerly worked as a Teacher Mentor for a couple of years. She wields words like weapons to help readers get clear and concise information.

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