Best things about teaching in Qatar

Published on 20th July, 2015 by Owen Richards. Published in For Candidates / TIC News

Find out why international school jobs in Qatar are so popular

Qatar is one of the most popular destinations for teachers considering jobs in international schools. From its luxurious shopping malls and vibrant community, to its tax-free incomes and extensive selection of schools, there’s something for everyone.

Here are the 10 best things about teaching and living in Qatar – from those who have experienced it:

1. It’s fascinating: “The great thing about Doha is that it is safe and the people are charming. It is fascinating living and learning in such a vibrant place,” says Sarah White, taught at Doha British School

2. It’s easy to be an expat here: “Qatar is a very progressive Middle Eastern country and easy to be an expat here. On a Thursday night (which is the end of the working week), you’ll see all sorts of people; Qataris, Indians, Westerners all sitting out on the Corniche enjoying life. It’s a great place to be,” says Robert Graves, Headteacher of Compass International School in Al Khor

3. Happy, enthusiastic students: “I really love that the students in Qatar are motivated to learn. They looked forward to coming to school and want to work hard. In the UK I spent most of my time trying to manage the students' behaviour. In Qatar, I spend most of my time teaching,” says Sarah Brown, a teacher at ACS International School Doha

4. Perfect place to meet people: “There is an endless list of things to do here to meet people outside work. There’s a big expat community; you will definitely find friends and activities to match your needs and wants: drama, rugby (for ladies and men), I’ve joined a running group and go kayaking on the weekend, there’s so much more I can mention but it would be an endless list!” says Nicole Brand, a teacher at the International School of London Qatar

5. You can easily travel to so many other countries: “I can save money and travel! I've already been to Sri Lanka, Hong Kong and Qatar and plan to go to Oman and Bahrain. I've saved money to go to Amsterdam at Christmas and the USA in the summer. If I was working in the UK now, I couldn't possibly think of doing all that!” says Ben Brown who taught at Qatar International School

6. High standards, inspiring work: “The school here is a lot more relaxed. The standards for teaching are just as high, but the atmosphere, attitudes and enthusiasm of all the staff and children is infectious,” says Carey Kalym, a teacher at Compass International School, Al Khor

7. Great weather, good sport: “The weather is fantastic, particularly the winter.  I am playing for a local football team and have played games in Qatar as well as travelling to Thailand and Bahrain for competitions,” says Lawrence Diver, who taught at Park House International School

8. The best teaching experience: “This has been the most favourite thing I’ve done in my career. There are so many places to go and people to meet. I teach the nicest, nicest children. They are so enthusiastic. They’re so polite. They want to talk to you and to learn. They’re so happy to come to school, they like doing well,” says Heather Tinsley, a teacher at Qatar International School

9. Qatari weddings are amazing: “I was privileged enough to be invited to a Qatari wedding. I was blown away by this experience; by the extravagance, the noise, and also by the hospitality. There was plenty of food, music, dancing and mingling!” says Clare Beatson, a teacher at International School of London Qatar

10. So many jobs, so many opportunities: “Qatar is one of the most popular destinations for teachers. TIC has good relationships with many of Qatar’s international schools and we always have great opportunities for a range of teaching and leadership positions. Most schools offer tax-free salaries and comprehensive packages. There’s never been a better time to teach in Qatar,” says Andrew Wigford, Managing Director of TIC Recruitment

See the latest job vacancies in Qatar by checking out our Middle East Vacancies page. If you would like to read more about teachers’ experiences in international schools in Qatar, as well as other countries, take a look at TIC’s Teacher Interviews section.

You may also be interested in these informative articles:
First time advice booklet for teaching overseas
Support the TIC Charity Bike Ride
Refer a teacher for £75 worth of voucers

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Owen Richards

Owen works in media relations and marketing. His main focus is working with the press on features about teachers who have moved overseas to teach internationally.