Teaching in Syria comes with unique realities shaped by the country’s recent history, yet it also presents opportunities for those who are passionate about education and humanitarian work. Over the past decade, the education sector has been deeply affected by conflict, leading to teacher shortages, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted schooling for many children. Despite these challenges, there has been a strong push to rebuild the system, supported by international organisations, NGOs, and private institutions.
For teachers, this means opportunities are available in areas such as language instruction, basic education, psychosocial support, and vocational training. International schools and NGOs often look for qualified educators, while humanitarian organizations regularly recruit professionals to support education initiatives. At the same time, teaching in Syria requires resilience, cultural sensitivity, and a readiness to work under conditions that may differ from more stable regions.
This article explores the types of teaching roles you may find in Syria, how they are typically filled, what requirements are common, Visa sponsorship and what to realistically expect in terms of pay, benefits, and conditions. It also highlights practical steps for those considering this path, while noting the safety and professional considerations that come with working in such a context.
Latest Teaching Job Openings in Syria
- English Teacher (International School of Choueifat, Damascus): Full time role teaching English within the SABIS curriculum. Requires a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature, a teaching diploma or at least two years of teaching experience, and a near native English accent. Benefits include medical and life insurance, social security, and transportation allowance.
- Education Coordinator (HAND Organization, Damascus / Aleppo): Full time position starting October 2025. Responsibilities include leading the design, implementation, and coordination of education programs in Syria, ensuring alignment with national strategies and humanitarian standards. Salary around USD 700/month.
- English / Kindergarten Teachers (International School of Choueifat, Homs): Vacancies for English teachers up to grade 10/11 and Kindergarten teachers. Requires a degree in English, classroom experience, and the ability to teach literature, TOEFL, or SAT courses.
- English Teacher (SABIS International School, Damascus): Role for teaching English within the SABIS® curriculum. Requires at least 1 year of teaching experience and a commitment to continuous learning.
- Online English Teaching Volunteer for UNDP Staff (Remote / Syria): Volunteer role teaching English to UNDP staff. Fully remote, focused on English language courses for staff.
Most Common Teaching Roles in Syria
In Syria, education continues to play a key role in rebuilding communities despite the social and economic challenges caused by years of conflict. Teachers are still needed in different capacities, both in formal schools and in informal training programs. While not every job opening is published online, there are a number of teaching roles that remain common across schools, universities, and training centers:
1. English Language Teachers: English is one of the most sought-after subjects because many Syrian students see it as a gateway to international education and career opportunities. Private schools, language institutes, and even some NGOs consistently seek teachers who can help students improve their English skills, ranging from basic grammar to advanced conversation classes.
2. Arabic Language Teachers: As the foundation of communication and literacy in the country, Arabic teachers remain crucial. They are needed not only in formal schools but also in adult literacy programs and community initiatives that aim to help children and displaced families catch up on lost years of schooling.
3. STEM Teachers (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics): Subjects like physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics are central to preparing the next generation of Syrian students for higher education. Teachers in these fields often find opportunities in both secondary schools and universities. The demand is also tied to Syria’s need for professionals in medicine, engineering, and technology.
4. Vocational and Technical Instructors:
Practical skills are in high demand, especially as many young people are eager to acquire trades or IT skills that can translate into direct employment. Vocational training centers and some humanitarian programs frequently engage instructors to teach areas such as computer studies, carpentry, electrical work, and other applied sciences.
5. University Lecturers: Despite challenges in the higher education sector, Syrian universities still recruit lecturers and professors in fields like medicine, engineering, business, and the social sciences. These roles are often filled through government or academic networks rather than open job boards, but they remain an important part of the teaching landscape.
6. Primary and Secondary School Teachers: At the heart of the education system are primary and secondary teachers. They are needed across a wide range of subjects, from mathematics and social studies to history and general sciences. Many of these positions are supported by local authorities, NGOs, or community driven schools that ensure children continue learning.
Note: Most of these teaching opportunities in Syria are not widely advertised on international job sites. Instead, they are often coordinated through local education authorities, NGOs, and humanitarian agencies. Reports from UNESCO and academic networks confirm that education remains a priority area, which is why these roles continue to exist even in difficult circumstances.
Check also: Healthcare and Nursing Jobs in Syria
How to Find Teaching Opportunities
Finding teaching roles in Syria is not as straightforward as in many other countries. While jobs do exist, they are often filled through controlled or limited channels rather than open international recruitment. Here are the main pathways usually reported:
1. Private International Schools:
English and subject teachers are often needed in private schools that cater to families who want global standard education. For example, the International School of Choueifat in Homs has previously advertised for English and Kindergarten teachers. Other schools in Damascus and Aleppo also recruit for similar roles, though postings are irregular.
2. Private Universities: Certain institutions, such as Cordoba Private University in Aleppo and Al-Hasakah, continue to run programs in humanities, science, and engineering. They employ lecturers and faculty, usually through regional or internal recruitment rather than international job boards.
3. NGOs and Education Programs:
Humanitarian organizations such as WeWorld and programs like Manāhel (SEP II) support teaching and training for displaced populations. While most of these roles target local teachers, they highlight where demand and opportunities exist.
4. Specialist Job Boards: Teaching specific platforms such as SeriousTeachers.com have occasionally listed English teaching positions in Syria, mostly with private schools. These are among the few international channels where postings appear.
4. Networking and Partnerships: In many cases, opportunities are accessible through direct connections, whether with universities, NGOs, or cultural programs. Partnerships, referrals, or academic exchanges play a large role in how roles are filled.
Pay, Benefits, and Working Conditions for Teachers in Syria
Salary Expectations
- Public Sector Teachers: The average annual salary for a teacher in Syria is approximately 1,405,700 SYP, equating to about 117,141 SYP per month. Salaries can range from 691,200 SYP to 2,197,700 SYP annually, depending on experience, location, and specific educational institution.
- Private Sector Teachers: In private institutions, salaries can vary widely. For instance, in Homs, English and Kindergarten teachers at the International School of Choueifat may earn between 173,714 SYP and 188,131 SYP annually, based on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
- Public Sector: Teachers working in government schools are generally entitled to the usual public employee benefits, such as health coverage, pension contributions, and paid leave. In reality, the consistency of these benefits can vary because of Syria’s ongoing economic difficulties. There have even been times when salaries were delayed, which has led to unrest among educators.
- Private Sector: Those who work in private schools, such as international institutions, often receive more structured benefits. These may include health insurance, social security contributions, and sometimes transport allowances. The exact package depends on the institution, and the details are usually spelled out in each teacher’s contract.
Working Conditions
- Public school teachers typically follow a five day work week and standard classroom hours. The bigger challenge has been the irregular payment of wages, which adds strain to the role. In contrast, private schools usually offer a more predictable working environment with clearer contracts and expectations, although teachers are held to strict standards of professionalism and curriculum delivery.
Recent Developments
- Salary Reforms: Early in 2025, the Syrian government introduced a significant pay rise for public employees, reported as a 400% increase. This was intended to ease the financial struggles faced by teachers and make the profession more sustainable.
- International Support: Organizations such as UNICEF continue to back educational programs in Syria. Their support includes teacher training sessions and incentives designed to help educators work effectively despite the difficult conditions.
Key Requirements and Helpful Tips for Teachers
- A recognized bachelor’s degree in education or in the subject area you want to teach is usually the first requirement.
- Many schools and NGOs prefer teachers with at least one to three years of classroom experience, though volunteering and online teaching can also help you stand out.
- For English teaching positions, fluency in English is a must, and some schools may ask for proof through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Teachers of Arabic, on the other hand, are expected to have a strong command of the language and clear teaching methods.
- Professional certifications such as TESOL, TEFL, or training in child protection can make your application more competitive.
- Schools also look for teachers with soft skills like patience, adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and good communication.
- When applying, prepare a detailed CV and a cover letter that highlights your teaching strengths, international experience, and willingness to adapt to the local context.
- It is wise to keep in mind that some teaching jobs are based in regions affected by conflict. Always confirm the safety situation and, if possible, consider online teaching options that are becoming more common and flexible.
Conclusion
Teaching in Syria today is a path filled with both challenges and hope. In this article, we explored the current realities of the education sector, the types of teaching roles available, recent job openings across schools and organizations, and the qualifications that can improve your chances of securing a role. We also shared extra tips to help you prepare better for opportunities, whether in private schools, NGOs, or even remote teaching.
While these insights reflect the situation as it stands, it’s important to remember that conditions in Syria can change quickly, which may affect the availability of jobs or the requirements attached to them. That’s why staying updated and keeping an eye on trusted sources matters so much.
If you found this guide helpful, make a note to return here for fresh updates and new opportunities, as this blog is regularly refreshed to keep you informed and prepared for the next step in your teaching journey.
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