Looking for help re: the UK (teaching)

[chasem]

So, I have no idea if anyone here would know anything about this, or if you would have an idea where to start, but I thought you guys might. And hey, what's the harm in asking?

So here's the thing, I'll be graduating college in 2 years, and I will be a teacher at the high school level. I've also always wanted to travel to Europe, primarily England and Scotland. I got to thinking one day, that I'd like to teach over there for a couple years after I graduate. I'll get to visit the area, like I wanted, and I would be very productive while doing so, rather than just taking a vacation. I've thought even more about it, and that's a route I would really like to pursue.

The thing is, I have no idea what I would need to do to be able to teach in the UK, or to be desired as a teacher. I know it's possible to get in touch with the department of defense over on this side of the pond, and sign up with them to teach on US military bases in countries overseas. However, I would have no control over where I ended up, as far as I know.

So, I'm looking into other means, and I thought some of the people here would be good british connections, that might have some idea where to start anyway. At least moreso than myself.

Thanks guys.

-Chase

[kilted in kleaveland]

My sister was part of a teacher exchange program through her own university, and really enjoyed the experience in England. I would contact your adviser first to see if any such program exists there.

[highlander_Daz]

Teacher exchange is a good idea, bear in mind in the UK you need to be able to teach 2 subjects, it might be a good idead to start of as a classroom assistant to gain experience in teaching in the UK, be warned discipline in UK secondary schools is virtually non existant and there are virtually no consequeneces for pupils that behave badly, however teachers are subject to unfounded allegations by pupils everyday.

[bangkok kilt]

Chasem,
I'm an international school teacher. So feel free to PM with specific questions. I'll give some general advice though.

First, you have to consider if you want to teach at an international school or a public school in the UK. If you want to teach at a public school you need to look for an exchange program. I'll be honest, it'll be tough for you not being part of the Commonwealth. It's far easier for Canandians, Australians, and New Zealanders to get teaching jobs in the UK than it is for American citizens, but not impossible. If you want to go that route check The Times (London) for job postings.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/global/

The other option is if you want to teach in an International school. International schools are private schools that cater to foreign students and national students whose parents want them to have an international education. In many parts of the world international schools are the only schools where English is the medium, but obivously in the UK this isn't the situation. There are definately international schools in the UK. There are a few in London, and others throughout the UK. Honestly I think this is your best option, although you might not find a job in the UK. International teaching has become fairly competitive. The best option is to not limit yourself to a specific country because then you limit the available jobs.

THere are many ways you can find international jobs. One of the best resources is The International Educator, www.tieonline.com. It is a fee paying service, but it is how I got my current job. They have hundreds of international schools listed, and these schools post jobs all the time. You can place your resume there and they might contact you.

Another good website is www.cois.org . This is the website of the Coucil of International Schools (CIS). They post job openings.

Also, you can just search google for schools.

The third method is to go to a job fair. They have them in New York, Boston, BC, and Northern Iowa. Many international schools go to them to recruit, and many only hire at the job fairs. I have personally never been, but I've been lucky enough to get jobs through direct contact, which is slightly unusual. Unfortunately you have to pay fees to go to many job fairs (except CIS in London).

Last bit of advice is check out the International Job Guide on the TIEonline website. It's free and a good step-by-step FAQ.

[davedove]

I know it's possible to get in touch with the department of defense over on this side of the pond, and sign up with them to teach on US military bases in countries overseas. However, I would have no control over where I ended up, as far as I know.

With DoD, you apply for whatever job want in whatever location you want, just like any other job. It's not like being in the military where you go wherever they say, with the exception of a few positions.

It's a LOT easier to get the jobs though once your in the DoD system. And of course, if there is no position open where you want to go, too bad.

Here's the website to check out:
http://www.usajobs.gov/
You fill in the on-line form with the area you would like to work, and your field of work, and it will give you a list of jobs available.

[A Hay]

DoDDS (Department of Defense Dependent Schools) system is a good opportunity if you can get in. However, a lot of schools in Europe are closing and the competition will be very tough. Be flexible and persistent and you just might get in.

Good Luck (My oldest daughter teaches high school English in rural Michigan. She loves the work)

[arrogcow]

be warned discipline in UK secondary schools is virtually non existant and there are virtually no consequeneces for pupils that behave badly, however teachers are subject to unfounded allegations by pupils everyday.

So in other works, just like teaching in the US.

Adam

[porrick]

First, you have to consider if you want to teach at an international school or a public school in the UK.

Just to clarify: a school for the general public in Britain is known as a state school. The public school is, on the other hand, part of the private school sector, and is typically examplified by names like Eton, Harrow, Winchester, Rugby etc etc