It is likely that the notion of working abroad has crossed many people’s minds at some point. The variety of opportunities as well as a multitude of attractive locations to choose from must surely tempt even the most committed of UK based teachers on a long winter’s night of marking. But educating overseas is a big career move and not everyone will have the right attributes for this type of opportunity. So what are some of the skills required to teach abroad?
Adaptability – It goes without saying that anyone looking to work overseas will have to be adaptable. Almost everything about your role is likely to be very different to how it is in the UK and any prospective teacher should be conscious of what a big step moving abroad can be. It’s particularly worth keeping in mind any cultural complexities about the region you’re travelling to.
Curiosity – Some say there’s no point in travelling abroad if you don’t want to develop a greater understanding of the country you’re in, and one of the only ways to do this is by being curious. You could volunteer to lead school trips, take additional classes (if you feel confident doing so) and ask questions of your co-workers. By doing this you’re likely to feel as if you’re living and breathing the culture, rather than taking it in as outsider.
Basic language skills – Unless you’re based somewhere like Australia or New Zealand, it’s also preferential to have some basic language skills of the country before moving. While it’s not an absolute necessity, it can aid in assimilating into the culture. It might also be useful to understand what your pupils may be saying about you in their native language!
Desire to learn – It’s unlikely many teachers have entered (and stayed) in education without possessing a desire to learn, but it really is a key trait to consider when teaching abroad. As already mentioned, almost every area of your life will be altered in some way. One of the great benefits of moving overseas is the amount you can learn from your colleagues and your host country in general.
Confidence – Finally, it may seem obvious but it takes self-confidence to be able to move to a foreign country and work there. Starting a new job can be daunting at the best of times and doing it in a foreign country is an even more intimidating prospect. It is said that the most successful people are confident in their own ability, both inside and outside of work. Being confident that you are making the right move could turn your dream move abroad a reality.
About the author
Mohammed Azam is Managing Director of Capita Education Resourcing.
The company specialises in providing a comprehensive range of recruitment solutions and added value services to the education sector. Its national network of offices ensures that it can provide customers with a fast and effective service, responsive to their local needs whilst being able to find its candidates jobs throughout the UK. Through many years’ experience of dealing with schools, nurseries and colleges, Capita Education Resourcing understands the specialist requirements of the education market and the most important part of its service is ensuring that the children within its teachers’ care receive the best education. Capita’s dedication to these high standards and providing continuity of children’s education is achieved through the consistent provision of the best quality teachers to its customers.
To find out more, check out our websitewww.capitaeducation.co.uk , follow us on Twitter @CapitaTeachers or become a fan of our Facebook page ‘Careers at Capita Education Resourcing’.
