Thinking of teaching abroad? Know what to consider before applying?

There are many factors that should be taken into consideration when looking for a teaching job abroad.  Although comforts and personalities differ, there are a few factors that we should consider.  For instance, salaries, language differences, cultures, safety, weather and also teaching curriculum.  These are just a few to mention, but there are many others one might consider.

Salary

When we talk about salary, we don’t just mean getting paid at the end of each month.  If we are moving away from our families and meant to make it on our own, we definitely want a salary that will allow us to cover our basic needs, but also allows us to save a sufficient amount of our salaries.

Saving is a huge bonus when teaching in the Middle East!!  This is often possible if you look for a job in a country where the currency is much higher than your home country, however, you still need to do some research about the cost of living in the country you choose to teach in.

Language

Language is a very important factor.  Be open to learning a new language.  You might not be able to converse fluently in your newly learned language, but it will definitely be helpful while you live abroad.  We all need to be able to communicate our needs in some way.  Something as simple as shopping for bread can become extremely stressful as a foreigner if there is a language barrier, so learn some basic words from the locals and your students! Countries that have a larger expat population are usually familiar with English.  In terms of teaching, most private schools in the Middle East offer English and English-taught subjects as part of their curriculum.

Culture

Cultures differ widely across the world.  Ever heard people talk about a culture shock?  Culture shocks can be avoided by doing a little research on the country you wish to teach in. Find out about their culture- what’s acceptable and what’s not.  KEEP AN OPEN MIND!! The way we live our lives can sometimes make it difficult to fit into cultures from other countries.  You may find that some countries are more suitable than others for you.

Safety

Safety safety safety!!! Everyone wants to feel safe.  Some countries really do offer you a sense of safety.  Going out for an evening stroll, shopping after dark, traveling by taxi alone- most of these are impossible to do in South Africa without being afraid.  All countries have crime, that’s for sure, but some countries manage this crime better than others and that counts! It’s definitely something to consider before choosing your teaching location.

Weather

This is something that is totally dependent on you as a person. Sometimes it isn’t even a factor to consider if you don’t have a preference. The Middle East is beautifully warm throughout the year! Some would say a little too warm I guess- everything is airconditioned so don’t worry! If you have health conditions related to weather, you’d have to do some research about which climates and countries are better suited for you.

Curriculum

It is always a good idea to look into the education system of the country of your choice.  Curricula all over the world differ vastly. There is no need to freak out and decide not to teach abroad because the curriculum is different from what you are used to.  Teachers are great at adapting.  It’s just a way of comforting yourself and reassuring yourself that you can do this.

All these are considerations when applying to teach abroad.  Anything you are uncertain about can be cleared up by a little research or contacting us.  Our agents are more than happy to discuss your concerns and provide the most UpToDate information.