The Kate Languages Podcast - S5 Ep4 - Making extra money as an MFL teacher

In this episode of the Kate Languages Podcast, I talked about different ways of making a bit of extra cash as an MFL teacher. From private tuition, to teaching resources and delivering workshops/webinars, here is a summary of 5 ways you can make some extra money today.

To listen to the episode in full, click "play" above.

Making Extra Money as an MFL Teacher: A Guide to Side Hustles in Language Education

Creating and Selling Teaching Resources

One of the most lucrative ways to generate extra income is through selling teaching resources. When I first started on TES.com in 2017, I remember anxiously waiting to reach the £10 withdrawal threshold. Fast forward a few years, and I've earned around £30,000 through this one platform alone. While TES takes a significant commission (approximately 30%), its wide reach makes it worthwhile. Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) offers another platform, particularly popular in the US, though as a British creator, navigating dollar pricing can be challenging.

If you're considering this route, remember two crucial points: always provide answers with your resources, and check your school's intellectual property policies. Some institutions claim ownership of resources created during employment, so it's essential to create original content specifically for sale.

For more details on how I create and sell teaching resources, have a read of this blog post.

The Digital Revolution in Private Tutoring

Private tutoring has been transformed by the pandemic, making it more accessible than ever. Through platforms like Zoom, you can teach students worldwide from the comfort of your home. The flexibility extends beyond traditional GCSE and A-level preparation - from teaching young children to helping retirees learn holiday Spanish, the opportunities are vast. Language teachers have a particular advantage, as they can often teach English as a foreign language alongside their specialist languages.

Sharing Expertise Through Professional Development

CPD workshops represent another significant income stream, particularly in our increasingly digital world. Online webinars, such as those hosted by Linguiscope, can pay over £100 per hour. While this might sound attractive, remember that considerable preparation goes into creating high-quality training materials. I've found collaborating with other educators particularly rewarding, both professionally and financially, with co-hosted workshops generating several hundred pounds for a session.

The key is identifying your unique expertise. Everyone has something valuable to share, whether it's classroom management strategies, planning techniques, or innovative teaching methods. Starting with free 'show and tell' sessions can build confidence and lead to paid opportunities.

Leveraging Additional Skills

Many of us possess valuable skills beyond teaching. Tech-savvy teachers might consider podcast editing, online course production, or graphic design. Social media management, particularly creating engaging content using tools like Canva, is increasingly in demand. Virtual assistant work, handling emails and administrative tasks for other educators or entrepreneurs, offers another flexible income stream.

Remember to value your expertise appropriately - professionals seeking high-quality work are often willing to pay competitive rates. Whether it's creating engaging social media graphics or managing online communities, these skills can generate significant additional income.

These opportunities demonstrate how language teachers can leverage their existing skills and expertise to create additional income streams. Whether you choose to sell resources, offer private tutoring, deliver CPD, or explore other avenues, the key is finding what works for your schedule and skillset.

Remember, in challenging economic times, it's perfectly reasonable to seek additional income sources. The beauty of these suggestions is that they allow you to earn while continuing to contribute to education and language learning. Whether you're saving for something special or managing rising costs, these opportunities can help create financial stability while maintaining your commitment to education.

Did you know that every week I share a couple of business and marketing posts on Instagram, just for my "close friends" list?! If you'd like regular tips and ideas for how to grow a side hustle, or even quit teaching and build a business full time, simply head over to Instagram and drop me a DM, requesting to be added to the list!