Teaching abroad is a massive learning curve and when you enrol on a TEFL scheme or relocate to start a new role in an international school several things will become obvious immediately.
#1 Teaching abroad is not only for young people.
Those enrolling on TEFL schemes can be anyone, from the ambitious graduate looking for an adventure in another country to the older people looking for a career change. Teaching abroad attracts anyone who wants to make a money while traveling and seeing the world, and who doesn’t want that?
#2 You don’t have to teach children.
A lot of international teachers will work in early years or primary education. However there is also a big market for English-speaking teachers in secondary schools and higher education institutions, especially for subjects like business studies in East Asia. So if there is something you are particularly interested in teaching then you should be able to find a job to suit.
#3 Understanding English is so important to your pupils.
As the world language, English is seen as a vital to economic development at both at a national level and for the individual. For many it is there way to a better future for them and their families. As such, regardless of whether you are in a TEFL role or international school, you should expect lots of student engagement and questions which can at times be difficult to deal with.
#4 You will not need to learn another language.
While teaching English abroad you will not be expected to speak anything else. We have already discussed how important learning English can be for people, so when you’re working with them they will not want to hear anything but English. It may be useful to read a little on your new home’s culture and local knowledge but it is not necessary to know anything more than that.
#5 Working abroad will improve your prospects.
Teaching abroad is a fantastic way to prove to potential employers that you are conscientious, well-organised, adventurous individual and will be helpful regardless of the position you are applying for. When we talked to the experts over at http://www.edustaff.co.uk/ they told us that their most successful applicants for higher paid teaching and leadership roles often have some experience teaching abroad.
#6 Teaching is a respected job.
If you have spent any time with teachers, you will know that many of them feel they are overworked and underpaid. The government is trying to improve the status of teachers in society to get more people to join the profession, unfortunately some of the old hang-ups about teaching still persist in the UK. However if you teach abroad you will soon see that teaching are one of the most respected professions, which goes double for those who speak English. If you ever feel the need to improve your craft in teaching, there’s always the prospect of advancing your career with a masters in education. With the credibility that you’ll have, this will earn you the respect that teachers deserve.
#7 You will have more holiday.
Teaching abroad will mean you are likely to have much longer holidays. These are your chance to make the most of living in another country and visit new areas, famous landmarks, or take a trip home to see your family and friends. For more information on how holidays work in schools in different countries this article is a great place to start.