I chose Bermuda for my first year teaching overseas!
Jack Higson is currently in his first year of teaching Physics at Warwick Academy in Bermuda. Originally from Cornwall in the UK, this is Jack’s first experience of teaching overseas. Here he shares his initial thoughts about life in Bermuda:
“I first heard about the benefits of teaching at an international school through a friend who had taught in Kazakhstan for two years. She had had an amazing time teaching at an international school and highly recommended both the experience, and TIC Recruitment.
Teaching overseas sounded like something I would be interested in, so I registered with TIC and here I am!
Bermuda compared to the UK
Teaching at Warwick Academy is certainly different from teaching at a state school in the UK. There is a much larger mix of demographics and nationalities at Warwick Academy than in my previous school. As a result, I’ve had to adjust to how I plan and develop my lessons, which has been an interesting challenge.
There are some difficult aspects of teaching overseas and for me, the hardest aspect of moving here was leaving the colleagues and students at my old job behind. I loved where I was working in the UK, and the relationships I had built, so leaving was difficult. There are many bonuses, however. This experience is already teaching me to become more independent and I have also had the opportunity to get involved in extra-curricular activities. I’m already coaching a football team, and will soon be going on a school ski trip!
A big welcome from the Bermudians
I’m really enjoying how friendly everyone in Bermuda is – a welcoming attitude is part of the culture here. It’s been great to break from the norm of living in the UK and experience a new way of life.”
An international school in Bermuda
You might be surprised to know that Warwick Academy is one of seven international schools in Bermuda! Established in 1662, it is actually the oldest school on the island. The school caters for around 750 children between the ages of 4 and 19, and follows the National Curriculum of England up to year 9, before working towards IGCSE and then the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in years 11 and 12.
Warwick Academy is close to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and lovely scenery, and being close to North and South America makes it a very attractive destination for teaching overseas!
TIC helped Jack get his overseas teaching job and we can help you too! Take a look at the current jobs that are available through TIC and register now for free to have access to all the jobs that are currently being posted for a 2018 September start.
REMEMBER: Many schools advertise their recruitment early; in most November, December and January, and interview during that time to find the very best recruits. Make sure you’re signed up if you want to take full advantage of the best opportunities in the best schools.
You might also be interested in these informative articles:
The Top 10 Best Cities for Teaching Internationally
Stop dreaming and do it! TIC event will tell you how
I moved overseas to develop my skills and teach a progressive curriculum