Hello friends! Being that this is half travel blog and half education blog, there hadn't been much to write about because of COVID. We haven't been able to travel and, teaching from home and in a hybrid model really was not teaching. I know teachers all over the globe tried very hard, but there was such a technology divide that really went against any kind of consistency. It was a tough year.
It is not a surprise to my closest friends since April of 2020 that I had been looking for an international position outside of the US. I started looking for schools that would provide me the ability to grow as a practitioner that were strong institutions that were supportive of music. I applied to a very small number of schools and finally found a great fit to the north of London and that is where I write to you today.
So, this blog is an ode to any of those who may wish to follow my journey to international education. Beyond the obvious (a resume/CV, recommendations, transcripts):
List your values as a teacher. What are your must haves? Where do you want to be in 5-10 years? You need to know yourself and what you can offer.
Be patient. Know each country's school calendars and how they work! COVID has really thrown a wrench into a lot of processes. It took me a full year of searching to find the right place that was a mutual fit.
Read JD's and see how you fit. When you are writing cover letters, you must show how you fit. Sometimes a great job may come with a title that doesn't seem familiar to you!
Join international teaching job services. I joined Search Associates and TES. This is where you will find a lot of job openings.
Do your homework before you apply anywhere.
Do not just search with geography in mind, explore every possible country's laws and the ability to convert your teaching certificate there.
Research each school. Look at their values. Are these congruent to yours? "Google Drive" the neighborhood to get an idea of the location. It is much cheaper then flying (and with COVID still problem, maybe your only way to check out the area).
Join and be active with international Facebook groups. Ask about the schools you're interested in (many will). You may get some feedback, but, as always, take everything with a grain of salt.
How much will a move to ______ cost? You will need to plan a budget! Think about the following:
Work Visa Cost (who is expected to pay for this - you or the school)?
Does it cost extra to join a health care system or how do you get insurance?
How much will it cost to move your belongings? Are you prepared to get rid of a lot of your belongings? Will the school pay to move you (or pay for some of your move)?
Do you have pets? Know the methods to import them into the country you will move to. Ask your vet if they know about importing pets. Some countries require you to ship pets as cargo and others allow you to simply have the pet on board with you.
Leave fear behind and be adventurous. You are going to experience a lot new and it does you now good to be "stuck" in your home country's mind set. Be prepared for a whole new system and procedures for everything. This does not mean these will not frustrate you, but be willing to get over things quickly. Take the new as an amazing way to experience another the point of view and way of life.
If you are interested in help on your way to teaching in another country and want someone to talk with, please feel free to connect with me! I can volunteer some light help and point you to some resources (and help you avoid pit falls).
Comments