International Teaching Jobs

Accepting a teaching job overseas can be a rewarding and enriching opportunity. Some people choose to teach in one location overseas for a long period of time. This gives them the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture and forge bonds with their students and others in the community. Others teach in one location for two years and then move on to another location etc. This is great for teachers who want to stay in one location enough to make a difference but also want to experience several cultures. Finally, some teachers will take a year off their local positions to teach overseas or use their summer vacations to teach overseas for a couple of months.

photo credit: Claire L. Evans

Accepting a teaching job overseas comes with advantages and disadvantages. The advantages are many. There are several positions in many different countries to choose from. Many of these positions not only offer tax free income but also come with benefits. Class sizes overseas are typically smaller than the class sizes here at home. You will get to experience many different cultures and languages as well as get the opportunity to see beautiful countries. Many of these positions offer housing or housing allowances as well as relocation expenses. Some also offer annual or semi-annual home leave so that you can visit your families and friends.

There are also drawbacks to teaching overseas. Depending on the country you choose to teach in, you may have to try to blend in with your surroundings. Some countries are not as safe as others and appearing to be an outsider can be dangerous. Those positions that offer housing should be carefully researched.  Not all housing is equal and you should know what is being offered. Be sure you understand what the school day is like and how the school is run. It can be very different from what you are used to at home. If you use an organization that organizes world travel jobs, there are often fees that the employers are required to pay. If you break your contract for any reason, you may be required to pay these fees.

photo credit: woodleywonderworks

If you are seriously interested in an overseas teaching job, there are several websites dedicated to posting available positions. If you are already a teacher, there may be opportunities through your school board as well. Programs like Amnesty International also have positions available and advertised.

Decide what you are looking for in an overseas teaching job before searching listings. Decide if you want to go for a few months or several years. Figure out if you want to stay in one location or teach in a variety of locations. Learn what the necessary documentation is and if you require any shots prior to leaving. Be sure you carefully understand the housing offered and the requirements of the job. Expect to have positive enriching experiences but also expect there to be some bumps in the road.