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As the year winds down, now is the ideal time for teachers considering a move to start exploring international opportunities. 

While some positions arise unexpectedly well into the spring and summer terms, the best schools are proactive, seeking staff intentions around this time to advertise in December and attract top candidates. 

With the right preparation, you can secure a position that aligns with your personal and professional aspirations. 

Here’s how to get started.

Decide Where You Want to Live

The first step is deciding where in the world you’d like to teach. 

International teaching is as much about lifestyle as it is about career, so consider the following:

• Proximity to Family: How far away are you comfortable being? Some prefer staying close, while others see this as an opportunity to experience life on the other side of the globe.
• Climate: Are you dreaming of sunshine and beaches, or do you enjoy the changing seasons?
• Cultural and Language Preferences: Would you like to immerse yourself in a new language and culture, or work in a country where English is widely spoken?
• Pay and Work-Life Balance: Salaries, benefits, and teaching hours vary by country and school, but trends can be researched. Some countries are known for high pay, while others offer an unmatched quality of life.

There are excellent online resources to compare salaries, benefits, and lifestyle factors, so take advantage of these before narrowing down your options.

I have always found this site to be particularly useful: https://www.teacherhorizons.com/world

Research Schools in Your Preferred Countries

Once you’ve decided on your ideal countries, start researching schools. 

Factors to weigh include:

• Size and Type: Would you thrive in a large international corporation with extensive networks or a smaller, community-focused school?
• Profit or Non-Profit: My experience suggests that smaller, non-profit schools often provide smaller class sizes, greater teacher autonomy, and prioritise staff wellbeing.
• Benefits: Many schools offer additional perks, such as flights, health insurance, and free child places for dependents. These can significantly impact your overall package.

Set up alerts for vacancies on platforms like TES, and don’t overlook other outlets for international job postings. 

If you have a shortlist of dream schools, consider contacting them directly to express your interest.

Perfect Your Application Materials

Your CV and letter of application are your ticket to standing out, so it’s essential to make them shine:

• Customisation is Key: Avoid generic “quick apply” options. Tailor each CV and letter of application to the specific school and position, reflecting their ethos and job description.
• CV Formatting: Stick to a professional, standard layout. Aim for exactly two pages, with major achievements and experiences placed prominently at the top of the first page—recruiters often skim-read applications.
• Include a Professional Photo: While it may seem old-fashioned, a polished, professional image helps create a positive first impression.
• Letters of Application: Address the principal directly and include why the school is your dream workplace. Be accurate and tactful—emphasise relevant experience but avoid mentioning dates that could make the experience seem outdated.

Finally, proof-read everything meticulously, or better yet, use tools like AI to polish your materials. 

Even minor errors can be a dealbreaker for recruiters.

Take the Leap

Moving schools can be a significant decision, but it’s often a chance to grow both personally and professionally. 

The fresh environment, new colleagues, and different challenges can reignite your passion for teaching and open doors to exciting opportunities.

Although the process may feel daunting, with proper planning and support, it can be immensely rewarding. 

If you’d like guidance through your job search, feel free to contact me. 

I’m happy to mentor teachers in finding roles that match their aspirations and skills. 

Your dream job is out there—let’s make it happen!

Thes