Lana Oconnell
International teaching jobs are a great way to develop your cultural side and career. International schools are always looking for passionate, well-rounded teachers with a commitment to the values of international education. While the demand for international educators is high, the application process can be complicated. International schools tend to employ foreign teachers with at least 2 years of experience and a degree in their subject, along with a strong command of their subject matter. Contracts vary from school to school, and may include housing allowances, medical insurance, shipping allowance, air transportation, tax benefits, and tuition benefits for dependent children.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Demand for international teachers | Expected to skyrocket over the next ten years, with a need for nearly 900,000 international teachers by 2026 |
| Qualifications | A bachelor's degree, a teaching license, and/or a degree in the subject being taught are often required. Some schools may accept a TEFL or TESOL certificate for English teaching positions. |
| Experience | Most international schools prefer teachers with at least 2 years of experience. |
| Skills | Strong command of the subject, ability to engage students of all abilities, passion, and commitment to the values of international education are commonly sought-after skills. |
| Benefits | Higher salaries, housing allowances, medical insurance, shipping allowance, air transportation, tax benefits, tuition benefits for dependents, and the opportunity to explore new cultures and countries. |
| Application Process | Research the school, dress professionally, provide evidence of skills, and be prepared to ask and answer questions during the interview. |
| School Type | International schools are typically independent, non-government institutions that set their own qualification standards and application procedures. |
| Location | International teaching jobs are available in various countries, including China, South Korea, Japan, Europe, South America, and more. |
What You'll Learn
International school job requirements
International schools are independent, non-government institutions that establish their own qualification standards and application procedures. The requirements for teacher applications to international schools can vary depending on the school, the country, and the specific teaching position. However, some general requirements that most international schools look for are outlined below.
Education and Certification
Most international schools require teachers to have a Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field. Additionally, teachers must be certified to teach in their home country or state. Some schools may also require teachers to have a minimum number of years of teaching experience, usually around two years.
Language Proficiency
If the school operates in a language that is not your first language, be prepared to demonstrate proficiency in that language. However, it is important to note that many international schools do not require teachers to be proficient in the language of the host country.
Professional Development
International schools often offer professional development opportunities to their teaching staff. These opportunities can include training on the latest teaching methods and technologies, as well as advancement in teaching careers.
Contracts and Benefits
Contracts can vary significantly from school to school. Some contracts may include housing allowances, medical insurance, shipping allowance, air transportation, tax benefits, and tuition benefits for dependent children. It is important to carefully review the contract offered by the school to understand the specific benefits and allowances included.
Work Permits and Visa
Once you are offered a job, many international schools will assist foreign employees with the work permit process. However, this process may vary depending on the country and can sometimes be complex and time-consuming. It is essential to discuss this with the school during the interview process to understand the specific requirements and procedures.
Job Search Platforms
There are several platforms that can help you find international school job opportunities, such as ISS EDUrecruit®, Schrole, and TES Jobs. These platforms allow you to connect directly with school recruiters, apply for jobs, and set up custom email alerts for new job postings. Additionally, some platforms offer the convenience of applying to multiple jobs with a single application.
International Student Divorce: Filing from Canada
You may want to see also
Benefits of teaching internationally
Teaching internationally offers a plethora of benefits, from cultural immersion and language acquisition to professional development and personal growth. Here are some key advantages to consider:
Cultural Immersion and Language Acquisition
Teaching abroad allows individuals to immerse themselves in a foreign culture, interact with locals, and experience new aspects such as cuisine, music, and architecture. It offers a unique opportunity to develop connections with people from diverse backgrounds and enhance cultural sensitivity. Additionally, it provides an excellent environment to practice and improve foreign language skills, which can be beneficial for both personal and professional growth.
Travel and Adventure
International teaching jobs provide a fantastic opportunity to travel and explore different countries. Individuals can experience new places, meet people from all over the world, and create memorable adventures. Many teachers who move abroad cite travel and cultural exploration as their primary motivation for making the switch.
Professional Development and Enhanced Resume
Teaching in an international setting offers valuable cross-cultural work experience that is highly regarded by employers. It demonstrates adaptability, leadership qualities, and an understanding of diverse cultures. This experience can enhance an individual's resume, making them more attractive candidates for future job opportunities, whether in education or other fields.
Personal Growth and Strengthened Character
Stepping out of one's comfort zone and navigating the challenges of living and working in a new country can foster personal growth and strengthen an individual's character. It requires courage and resilience, leading to a more confident and capable version of oneself. Many teachers who teach internationally report feeling a sense of achievement and pride as they master their new lives and environments.
Financial Benefits and Career Growth
Teaching abroad can provide a viable way to live and work in a foreign country while earning a competitive salary. In certain regions, such as Asia and the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf, English teachers often save a significant portion of their salary, offering financial benefits that may not be matched in their home countries. Additionally, international teaching can offer career growth opportunities, providing new challenges and a chance to develop professionally in a well-established international school sector.
The benefits of teaching internationally are vast and varied, offering a unique blend of professional development, cultural exchange, personal growth, and financial opportunities. It is a chance to broaden horizons, gain invaluable life experiences, and make a positive impact on the lives of students from diverse backgrounds.
International Students: Travel to the UK Made Easy
You may want to see also
International teaching job listings
ISS, short for International Schools Services, provides a platform that connects school recruiters with educators directly. It features a list of open positions from schools worldwide, which is regularly updated. ISS caters to both experienced international educators and those seeking their first international teaching opportunity.
Schrole offers access to a comprehensive database of over 400 international schools spanning more than 100 countries. During each recruitment season, Schrole advertises over 5,000 teaching vacancies. It allows users to create unique educator profiles, where they can upload important documents such as references and teaching qualifications. Schrole also provides custom alerts for preferred roles and access to virtual and in-person recruitment events.
Tes, previously known as Times Educational Supplement, offers a range of international teaching roles in Europe, the Middle East, and worldwide. It provides an easy online application process for various teaching positions, including those in popular destinations like the UAE, China, South Korea, Japan, and South America.
When applying for international teaching jobs, it is essential to consider the specific requirements and qualifications needed for each position and country. Some positions may require additional certifications or language proficiency, so it is advisable to carefully review the job listings and prepare the necessary documentation.
International Students: Path to US Permanent Residency
You may want to see also
International teaching exchange programs
There are many programs that you may be eligible for, depending on your country of origin. For example, if you are an Australian teacher and a member of the IEU, you can sign up for teaching exchange programs in the UK and Canada. However, you need to have at least 5 years of teaching experience.
For those looking to teach in the US, there are several options. The Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Program is sponsored by the US Department of State and has been running for several years. It is a combination of studying abroad and teacher exchange. The Teacher Exchange Program, a category of the US Department of State's BridgeUSA, allows foreign nationals to teach in primary and secondary schools in the US for up to three years. The International Teacher Exchange Services (ITES) is another sponsor organization of the US Department of State's Exchange Visitor program. The Foreign Academic and Cultural Exchange Services (FACES) invites international teachers to teach in South Carolina public schools.
The Canadian Education Exchange Foundation offers teaching exchanges domestically and internationally with countries such as the US, the UK, Denmark, Australia, France, and Germany. The British Council runs the UK/US Fulbright Teacher Exchange Programme in partnership with the US Department of State. The League for the Exchange of Commonwealth Teachers offers programs from three weeks to a year in countries such as Canada and Australia.
There are also international teaching jobs available outside of exchange programs. Websites such as ISS, Teacher Horizons, and Tes Jobs have job postings for international teaching positions. These jobs may include benefits such as housing allowances, medical insurance, and air transportation.
International Students: Getting a State ID Simplified
You may want to see also
International school accreditation
One prominent example is the CIS International Accreditation, recognised by ministries, departments of education, and universities worldwide. The CIS (Council of International Schools) accreditation evaluates schools based on their purpose, practices, planning, guiding principles, learning, and well-being. It demonstrates that a school provides high-quality international education, focusing on teaching quality, student learning, safeguarding, and fostering global citizenship.
Other notable accreditation bodies include the International Commission Advancing Independent School Accreditation (ICAISA), the International Alliance for Accreditation in the United States, ONESQA in Thailand, the Victoria and Queensland State Departments of Education in Australia, the Council of British International Schools (COBIS) in the UK, the British Schools of the Middle East (BSME), and the Federation of British International Schools in Southeast Asia (FOBISIA). These organisations ensure that schools meet specific standards and offer valuable recognition for students' transcripts when applying to colleges and universities.
When considering international teaching positions, it is essential to research the specific accreditation bodies relevant to your target countries or regions. This information can be found on individual school websites and country-specific resources. Understanding the different accreditations can be confusing for newcomers, but it is worth investing time in as it ensures the school's commitment to high standards and can impact your overall teaching experience and professional development.
Understanding Your Student Status: America to Canada
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
It depends on the country and the school. Some countries and schools may have specific requirements for teachers that international students may not meet. However, there are also many international schools that hire foreign teachers, and these schools may be more flexible in their requirements. It is important to research the specific requirements of the country and school you are interested in teaching in.
Teaching at an international school can offer a variety of benefits, including the opportunity to explore a new culture, country, and language. It can also provide a chance to teach in a smaller class size with more flexibility. Additionally, international schools often offer competitive salaries and benefits packages, which may include housing allowances, medical insurance, and air transportation.
To increase your chances of getting hired at an international school, it is important to have at least 2 years of teaching experience and a degree in your subject area. It is also crucial to demonstrate a strong command of your subject matter and the ability to engage with students of all abilities. Finally, don't forget to promote yourself and your talents, as the competition for international school jobs can be high.
