Ten Best Countries for Working Overseas as a Teacher
Where in the world would you like to teach? Recruitment Manager Gemma reveals the top 10 teaching destinations...
The world is your oyster when it comes to teaching these days. International schools can be found in virtually every country on earth, in most leading global cities, and sometimes in the most exotic of places - next to a beach in Barbados or alongside the jungle in Borneo. Just check out our current vacancies to see what we mean!
Here are ten countries with many great opportunities for teachers:
United Arab Emirates
The leading country in the world with over 500 English-medium international schools offering everything from the National Curriculum of England, to American-oriented curriculum and the International Baccalaureate. The UAE has a very large and vibrant expatriate community, with expats here from all over the world enjoying the cosmopolitan lifestyle and tax free salaries – providing a great chance to save if your package is right. There are some exceptional international schools in the UAE, particularly in Dubai, offering very good salaries and benefits for qualified and experienced English-speaking teachers.
Qatar
Another country in the Middle East where teaching opportunities are exceptional. Many local families want their children to be educated at the international schools here because of their high standards so demand for places is high – and that means demand for good teachers too. In addition, there’s a brand new city, called Lusail, currently being built with many international schools planned. Opportunities therefore are extensive, with tax-free salaries and often very good benefits.
Vietnam
Talk to many international teachers and they’ll say they love Vietnam! It’s a beautiful and fascinating country with white sandy beaches, great weather and a lively culture. Vietnam a country that is developing fast but the cost of living remains relatively low. Several new international schools are planned for Vietnam and there are many great schools already well established here.
China
Right now, Chinese regulations restrict opportunities for local children to attend foreign-owned international schools (which are popular with the expats), but the demand for English-speaking education is massive in China and more and more Chinese-owned international schools are being established to respond to the needs of local Chinese families. As a result, within a few years teaching options in China could be massive. Most major cities in China already have international schools. It’s an amazing country in which to teach with fascinating culture, diversity, and incredible sights and places to visit. Your saving potential is high. There can be heavy pollution in some cities but do your research – some locations are not as bad as the media makes out.
Thailand
There are many exceptional international schools in Thailand, with lively, bustling Bangkok as the main hub. Thailand is a hugely popular tourist and expat destination because of its beautiful location, fascinating temples, delicious food, and friendly people with their mind-set of “mai pen rai” which means ‘don’t worry’! You’ll even see elephants strolling down the road here!
Malaysia
Another great location for delicious food and friendly people, Malaysia is expanding significantly as a country for international schooling because of the support of the Malaysian Government. The infrastructure and communications here are excellent making it an easy place to live, with lush rainforests and Singapore close at hand.
Egypt
Egypt remains a very popular destination for expatriate teachers, even with the political unrest. Most expatriates live in gated communities and enjoy a very low cost of living here, meaning they can save a great deal in a short time. Tourism continues to be popular with the weather, water sports, rich history and culture a huge draw. There are many international schools in Egypt and you’ll find significant variety in their standards of learning and teaching. There are some outstanding schools and others that are not accredited or as good, so take care with your selection here.
Spain
Spain is the leading country in Europe for international schools. There are schools in most of Spain’s coastal cities as well as in Madrid. However cost of living and taxes are high so it’s not a great location for expatriate teachers whose main aim is to save money. But if you want to work in a European country with rich culture, good food and great people, then there are good opportunities for teaching in Spain.
Oman
A very popular country for expatriates with sunshine every day, stunning beaches and mountains, an ancient and fascinating culture, and very hospitable locals. Oman has good ties to the UK and some very good international schools.
Mexico
The number of international schools in Latin America is increasing and one of the most popular destinations for teachers is Mexico. You’ll currently find most international schools in Mexico City and Cancun with very limited selection elsewhere. For those who do work here, it’s a great chance to experience an incredibly diverse country with some amazing tourist attractions.
If any of these have got you itching for adventure, then head over to our Vacancies section now to see where you could be heading next! For more information about the opportunities available teaching overseas, check out the rest of our weekly Blog section.
You may also be interested in these informative blogs:
10 Tips for Job Hunting Teachers
Why would you want to teach in Mexico?
What’s it like to teach at an international school?
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Gemma McSweeney
Gemma is our Associate Director, having joined TIC in 2009. With over 15 years experience of recruitment and selection methods, she specialises in matching teachers and leaders with our international school partners. She has attended many international education conferences and has visited a number of international schools over the years. She uses this experience to best advise our teachers, leaders and schools and manage our team and UK operations.
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