An Educator Abroad: Part 1

Thinking about teaching abroad? Our 2-part guide offers advice and guidance for teachers seeking a new challenge.

Teaching abroad is an extremely attractive option for many people. First, there is the obvious monetary gain when your skillset is in high demand in another region. Secondly, you are given the opportunity to broaden your horizons by experiencing what the world has to offer, expanding your perspective. Finally, and most importantly, the chance to develop in your profession within often challenging circumstances can aid career development. You may often find yourself in a position to guide and lead (which looks great on your CV).

The impact of COVID-19 and the travel restrictions imposed by some countries led many educators to return home. As a result, the demand for expatriate teachers is high. Although you may find yourself a few rungs higher on your career ladder with a salary that would make any businessman jealous, one aspect must not be overlooked, your wellbeing.

Too often I have seen or heard of teachers who have ‘done a midnight run’. Others may know it by a different term, but I am sure they would get the gist. It means that a teacher has reached the point where they can no longer remain at their school, so they pack up and leave. No warning, no explanation, no notice.

Can the teacher in question still find a job elsewhere? Yes. Will it be a highly reputable school with an attractive benefits package? Probably not. Can they still progress their career by climbing the ladder? Yes...but a bit slower than they had hoped since they could prove to be a flight risk.

Part 1 of our guide offers advice and guidance to any teachers looking to take that step and become an international teacher. The things you can do to ensure your transition to the new role is as smooth as possible, beneficial to you, your organization, and most importantly, your students.

Be prepared

A wide range of teachers embark on this international journey. While some are highly qualified and experienced, others may have less experience. Many teachers have no professional qualifications at all.

I have met and collaborated with several teachers who fall into teaching and find a passion for it while already traveling. Whatever your circumstance, if you are thinking of moving to a new region to start or continue your career, you need to be prepared.

When applying for jobs overseas, most people are interested in how much money they will be earning. That is why most educators choose to move overseas in the first place. More money to build a nest egg, save to buy property or to improve financial circumstances in general. However, we should consider the cost of living in addition to the salary. You may have a lower salary in some countries, but the cost of living would more than make up for it, so you can save more.

As an example, a salary in the Middle East may be higher than one in Asia, but the cost of living in Asia is much lower allowing you to save more money. You can use this Cost of Living Calculator or visit Expat websites to determine what is best for your needs. One word of caution, if money is your only motive, this could lead you to make decisions that are detrimental to your overall wellbeing.

 After you decide on the country, research the region and location of the school. Some schools can be quite remote and due to lack of availability or travel time, you may find it difficult to pursue hobbies or a simple post-work drink.

Which brings up another point, getting around. What is the public transport situation? Are taxis available? How about driving yourself? What are the requirements to get a license for that country? What will it cost? If you find yourself in a new development far from more established towns and cities, how easy is it to get there? All these day-to-day considerations should not be overlooked.

Learn more about the local culture

The customs, food, politics, and other differences can significantly affect your daily life there, especially religious beliefs, local laws, and languages. Your native language may not be spoken that commonly. If you are ready to learn a new language, it will make life easier. If this is something you find challenging, consider this before deciding to accept the position.

However, the school itself should be the deciding factor. An ‘International School’ may not be as international as you think. The community, language proficiency, and number of international students attending the school should be questions you ask during your interview. This will give you a better idea of what to expect when you arrive. 

There could be barriers to learning such as diagnosed or undiagnosed disorders. This is common in every country, but there could be a lack of support in countries not as advanced as others. This may be due to lack of funding or simply part of the culture. Cultural differences also result in different levels of parental pressure and involvement. One thing is certain, all parents want what is best for their children. How the organisation meets these expectations is something else you should ask during your interview.

Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.

Read Part 2 of An Educator Abroad