The Experts in International School recruitment

Frequently asked questions

How do you find a job in an international school?
Well you can register with TIC! You could also apply directly to the schools through their websites or newspaper adverts. However, schools can receive 100’s of applications every month and you do have to be careful. Make sure you choose the best school for you.

How do I know which is the best school for me?
This is a very important question. There are many different types of schools, make sure you get good advice before accepting a job. TIC only works with approved schools and we carefully check working conditions and contracts.

Do you have to speak another language in an international school?
No, but a lot of teachers learn a new language because they have worked in one. Some schools even provide language lessons as part of the package.

What are the chances of gaining promotion in these schools?
Very good, staff turnover is generally higher in these schools because teachers tend to move around a lot more and promotion possibilities arise more frequently.  Many teachers stay in international schools for a long time and have very successful careers.

 Will I be able to get a job when I return home?
Yes. Most people say that a stint in an international school has a very positive effect on their career when they return home but some education authorities are still unaware of what international schools are and it can take some persuading that your experience has been relevant

What are salaries like compared to the UK?
Many schools have the equivalent or lower salaries to the UK, USA, NZ, AUS, SA, a few have higher salaries. However, you need to judge the salaries and benefits package as a whole. Most teachers find that they have a far higher savings potential. Most international schools also offer free accommodation, flights, pensions and bonus payments, plus they are located in countries with a significantly lower cost of living than the UK.

Can I choose which country I work in?
There are schools in almost every country in the world so there is a lot of choice. However to maximize your chances it is best not to limit yourself to one or two countries. It is better to choose the job and the school rather than the country.

What do Headteachers look for?
Just like Heads all over the world they want great teachers but they also need to know that you can adapt to working in their school and the culture of the country. Flexibility and adaptability are key qualities as are experience and professional knowledge. A willingness to become involved in after school activities and community events is also valued. Due to employment conditions some Heads prefer to employ single or married teaching couples. In some countries there are also age restrictions.

Do you work the same hours and have the same holidays?
Many schools have a very similar school calendar to schools in the UK but there will always be some variations. Schools tend to start the year in August and finish in June. Some operate on a southern hemisphere calendar i.e. Jan– Dec. Working hours tend to be very similar except in very hot countries where the working day may begin much earlier and finish around 1 or 2pm.

When should I apply?
You need to start as soon as possible! International schools recruit mainly in January and February but some start as early as December. You will need to have references and police check documents ready for the application process and to update your CV and if you register with us it is important to have all the pages of your profile completed.

What are the benefits of working overseas?
Our research tells us that teachers gain so much from their international school experiences. Not only do they have great life experiences from being immersed in another culture but also they benefit professionally from working with teachers from other counties and education systems. Most teachers say they their teaching abilities improve considerably as a result of working overseas.

 

Teaching jobs abroad with TIC