A teaching qualification can open up a whole world of possibilities, and deciding to teach overseas could be the most rewarding step you ever take. So whether you’re looking for an opportunity to wave goodbye to your current post, want to see another part of the world, or are attracted by generous remuneration packages that are often available, find out more about overseas working – and how to begin your international career…
People choose to work overseas for a host of reasons. It can offer the chance to travel, to enjoy a life-changing experience connecting with a completely different culture, to make the most of what can be considerable financial rewards, or simply the chance to follow the sun and get away from the British weather!
Often of course it’s a combination of these factors, but beware: what begins as a year away can sometimes end up as a whole career spent living and working overseas.
If you’re new to overseas teaching you’ll be pleased to hear that British-qualified teachers are generally held in high regard by the burgeoning international school sector; most of these schools are set up privately, for both local children and those of English expats.
While no doubt there will be opportunities to see the country where you decide to live and work during school vacations and at weekends, it is important to remember that you aren’t planning a holiday, but applying for a job – and looking for a home – so you’ll need to be pragmatic when deciding where to go.
Down-to-earth advice
The best advice is to research the area where you’d like to live and work in great detail, and check out exactly what package your school will be offering – especially if you’re going as a couple or with children.
Michelle Massey, who’s taught around the world, offered some excellent down-to-earth advice for anyone considering taking the plunge when we interviewed her in 2012, including tips for those moving as a family.
Stimulating
Teachers often find working overseas intellectually stimulating and rewarding on various levels, and if you decide to return to teaching in the UK later on, having overseas experience on your CV usually counts in your favour, as it can demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt to new situations.
Rewarding
From tax free salaries to accommodation, health insurance, subsidised education for your children and inclusive flights, many overseas posts offer a benefits package not to be sniffed at, but it’s important to think through all the financial angles before you go; here’s an article we prepared earlier on this very subject.
Your next steps…
So what next? Well if you feel that overseas teaching could be for you, but you’re not sure where to start, this piece on the top ten things to consider when thinking of teaching abroad could help. Then keep an eye on the international pages at eteach.com to see what’s new, register with international schools’ Talent Pools to be immediately considered when new posts come along, and sign up for our regular Eteach International Newsletter if you haven’t already, for featured jobs and news about teaching overseas.
Good luck – and don’t forget to let us know how it goes!
