Nov 2008. The academic year is under full swing by now and everyone teaching English in Madrid, Spain is feeling a slight pinch because of the economic crisis. 

Is there still high demand for English teachers?

Yes there is, but a lot of teachers have told me that they have filled their timetable nicely without refusing work from other acadamies. So, in other words, demand is down a bit. Teachers have filled their timetables  but  aren't receiving calls from other acadamies desperate for English teachers. For teaching English in Madrid, Spain, that is quite a change. Having said that, I have been looking for a teacher for children for about 3 weeks now, with no success! 

Are language schools and acadamies losing hours?

 In a word, yes, well probably. Some schools have said that they are down about 20% on last year. This is based on hear-say, however. Language schools are not renowned for sharing information among each other! Speaking personally, I have kept all the clients I had last year, but some of them started in November instead of October. Most of my clients in the banking sector have cut back on the amount of English language training given to employees. But to balance that, the private universities seem to be doing quite well!

 Should you come to Madrid to teach English? Yes absolutely, if you come at the right time of year (September and January in case you're wondering) and if you have a good profile to teach English. (native, experienced, qualified etc). Crisis? What crisis, well sort of!