How To Start Teaching Abroad

Teaching abroad is more than just a job. It is an adventure – a transformative experience for educators. You get a chance to explore different cultures and experience the ways students learn around the globe. It is a chance to live abroad and travel all at the same time. There are many opportunities for educators to start their careers internationally. You don’t have to worry about having years of experience. While there are different opportunities for experienced teachers, fresh graduates and interns are also in demand for some programs that require teacher assistants, provide volunteer opportunities, or train interns. Each program has one or more of these options available. You can weigh the pros and cons of the available opportunities and decide on your teaching journey in another country. Here are some tips to help you answer “How can I teach in another country?”

Research

Your first step is researching and choosing a destination country for an overseas teaching opportunity. There are a few things that you might want to consider while shortlisting a destination. These include differences in culture, language, social norms, and customs. Also, consider your goals and preferences before you choose a country. Don’t forget about the landscapes and the weather! With adequate preparation, you can adapt to these changes.

For an opportunity that requires interns, you only need to be enrolled in a relevant education program. For opportunities that require an experienced teacher, you might require some certifications or relevant working experience. Thoroughly research the job requirements before applying for a position.
You may want to spend time with children in an African country, or you may want to earn a high salary in a private school in an Arab country. You may prefer a country that speaks the same language as you, or you may want to actually learn a new language. Finalizing your preferred destination is the most exciting part. Be flexible while making choices. You may not get a job in the first country you choose; look for the second, third, or even fourth option on your list.

Choose the Right Program For You

Once you have worked out the preferred destination country, decide how you would like to search and apply for the teaching abroad opportunity: whether you want to seek an opportunity on your own or choose an organization that can help you in recruitment.

Teaching Abroad Programs

Several organizations run teaching abroad programs. They can help you find a placement in a reputable school. They also provide assistance where required, be it a question regarding a lesson plan or resolving an issue with the accommodation.

Finding The Job Yourself

In case you choose to find an opportunity yourself, you might miss out on the support provided by an organization or a recruiter. But you have a chance to directly communicate with the school’s management regarding requirements or any issue that comes to your mind. Keep checking job portals of schools in the country you are interested in moving to. It can be challenging but has its perks.
It is recommended that you have enough savings to survive any mishap or emergency. You also need to secure your accommodation and other necessities. Other than your educational certifications, you also need to make sure you have a valid passport, check the rules and regulations for visas and work permits, and abide by any health and insurance policies.

Volunteering

Volunteering programs can be helpful if you want to make a positive impact on people who are willing to learn but do not have enough opportunities. United Planet can be helpful in placing you in the right program for you. We not only provide volunteering opportunities to teach in another country, but also guide you on your accommodation, visas and expenses. We can also assist with any prerequisites for the position, or any other support you may need. The volunteer opportunities provided are carefully planned. You can opt for short-term, mid-term, or long-term programs depending on your requirements and goals.
The volunteering programs can be limited to one state or expanded over several countries depending on the organization. United Planet offers volunteer teaching abroad programs in several countries. From Ecuador to Ghana, Colombia, Japan, Vietnam, Mexico, and Peru, there are plenty of programs to choose from. Apart from individual opportunities, United Planet closely works with students, universities, and businesses to shape the volunteering experience of groups as well. Our group volunteering abroad programs are tailored for each group.
Unable to travel, but still want to experience teaching in a different setting? In that case, virtual quests can be a great idea. These virtual opportunities are available for individuals as well as groups.

Build Your Resume

Once you have determined the type of teaching opportunity you want to experience, start working on your resume. You can tailor your resume for a particular position and highlight the skills required for the job. Keep it updated! Add any reference letters you can, since they will strengthen your application. Learn about the format preferences of the country you are interested in and change your resume accordingly.

Prepare For the Interview

Consider some pre-interview prep once you land the interview. Research and learn about the school that is interviewing you. By the end of the interview, ask questions related to the job requirements which will help you show your determination and professionalism. Be confident. While answering questions regarding your skills, focus on your accomplishments and experiences. If you are an intern or a fresh graduate, you can discuss your class projects and co-curricular activities. While your degree and certifications are important, the skills that you can bring to the table might be more important.
Once you secure the teaching position, negotiate your contract and salary, if it is not a volunteer position. Ask questions about benefits, working hours, and other conditions, since each country has different regulations. Accept the job when you are confident about your decision and get ready to embark on a new journey.