A school built on experience, not theory
TEFL Iberia was founded in 2012 by Richard Davie with a clear goal: to create a different kind of language school. One that focuses on high-quality training, small groups, and a supportive environment where students feel comfortable from day one.
The school was shaped by Richard's early years in Barcelona — that feeling of arriving here for the first time, feeling excited and wanting to experience everything the city has to offer, yet the need for structure, support and stability as a young person abroad. From the beginning, the focus has been on practical learning, strong teaching standards, and helping students get the most out of their time abroad.
As the school grew, we expanded to include Iberia Language Academy, our Spanish language centre. This allowed us to offer a more complete experience for international students, combining professional training with language learning and cultural immersion.
A recognised and trusted training centre
In 2017, TEFL Iberia became an official Trinity CertTESOL provider. This qualification is recognised internationally and sets a high standard for teacher training.
Today, we welcome students from over 60 countries each year. Our programs combine structured learning with real-world experience, helping students develop practical skills that they can use anywhere in the world.
A complete gap year experience
Our Gap Year in Spain program brings together everything we do best. Students gain a professional teaching qualification, improve their Spanish, and experience daily life in Barcelona.
The focus is not only on learning, but on building confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging in a new environment. With accommodation, cultural activities, and ongoing support, students quickly feel at home in the city.
"I wanted to provide quality training in small groups, where students can feel at home. Everything we've built since 2012 has been in service of that original idea."
Everything you need to get settled in Barcelona
We want to help you along the same path as Richard and all the students who've come through our doors — and provide you with everything you need to make the move work.
🎓 A qualification that opens doors
The Trinity CertTESOL is internationally recognised, never expires, and is widely considered the gold standard for new teachers. It's the one qualification that gives employers confidence from day one.
🏠 Comfortable accommodation
Centrally located with like-minded flatmates. We match you with other gap year students so you're never navigating the city alone, even on day one.
🇪🇸 Real Spanish immersion
Spanish classes run by Iberia Language Academy — native, experienced teachers, communicative classes from day one, all levels. Language learning that actually works.
🌍 A network of friends
You'll be friends for life with your classmates, and have access to our wider graduate network. Students arrive alone and leave with connections across the globe.
📋 Spanish bureaucracy handled
Visas, NIE, social security number, bank account — we take the pain out of these processes. Our team has navigated Spanish admin hundreds of times, so you don't have to figure it out alone.
💼 A rewarding job afterwards
You'll find work quickly with our expert advice and local network of school contacts. TEFL Iberia is one of the most recognised TEFL brands in Barcelona — and it opens doors.
The school has grown to become one of the top-rated TEFL providers in the world. We've worked with major universities and student publications, and our graduates go on to teach in Barcelona and beyond. The Gap Year in Spain program brings it all together — teacher training, Spanish immersion, cultural activities, accommodation and ongoing support, all in one of Europe's greatest cities.
What our graduates always mention
We've trained hundreds of new teachers and they've all got great things to say about the school. When you ask them what made the difference, they'll mention:
- The small groups — 12 maximum, not 20.
- The confidence to stand in front of a class and teach.
- Making meaningful improvement to their Spanish and the satisfaction of actually speaking it to locals.
- Excellent support from our staff — available throughout your program, not just during office hours.
- First-class job opportunities available afterwards. We work hard to make TEFL Iberia one of the most well-known TEFL brands in Spain.
- The internationally recognised qualification — the Trinity CertTESOL never expires and is trusted by employers worldwide.
Both schools share the same premises on Carrer d'Aragó in Barcelona's Eixample district. One building, one team, one seamless experience — which is why the transition from TEFL training to Spanish classes to work experience feels natural, not fragmented.
TEFL Iberia
Barcelona's leading Trinity CertTESOL provider. Founded 2012. Home of the Gap Year in Spain program — teacher training, gap year programs and student support all under one roof.
Visit tefl-iberia.com →Iberia Language Academy
A highly rated Spanish language school for expats and professionals. Delivers the Spanish classes included in all gap year programs, and hosts the work experience component for Double Semester students.
Visit iberialanguageacademy.com →Also in About
Ready to start your Barcelona adventure?
Apply now and join thousands of students who chose Gap Year in Spain.