Many teachers investigate continuing their careers abroad. However, it can be hard to work out whether it is the right time for you to move abroad or not, especially if you are settled in your current school or have financial obligations at home. If you are unsure whether teaching in another country is right for you and whether you will be able to get the most out of it, read on for some of the top signs that you are ready.
- You Feel Restless
Often, you can know that you are ready to teach abroad if you are starting to feel restless and dissatisfied in your current role. You might find that you have less energy during the day than you used to, and that you are beginning to lose interest in the subject that you teach, as well as your students’ progress. If this is the case, you might decide to look into jobs abroad that can re-energize and refresh you, and help you to learn new teaching styles and techniques that can benefit your career in the long run.
- You Browse Jobs Every Day
If you are spending a lot of your free time looking at new jobs or dreaming about distant shores, this could be your sign to teach somewhere different. There are many exciting jobs that can help you to feel fulfilled and find your passion for teaching again. Luckily, it is easy to find these positions, as most of them are advertised online. If you think that you fancy teaching in a foreign country, you should look for teaching jobs in the Middle East and beyond. These can give you the chance to have once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and experience other cultures.
- You Plan Frequent Travels
If you are thinking about traveling more often than you are thinking about teaching, it might be time to give in your notice and to try and find a job that will allow you to explore the world while planning and delivering lessons. By doing this, you will not have to choose between travel and teaching, and will be able to make money while you see the world. This can ensure that you do not feel as if you are missing out when you are stuck in your classroom.
- You Have the Right Experience and Qualifications
However, before you move, it is important that you can obtain the right experience and qualifications. For instance, if you are not already a qualified or certified teacher in your home country, you might need a TEFL qualification, which will allow you to get to grips with how to teach English in a foreign language. You should also try to get as much classroom experience as possible before you move abroad so that you are equipped to handle any given situation and so that you do not feel instantly overwhelmed as soon as you get to your new school. You do not always have to have a lot of experience, though, and there are many companies that can help to find you a placement and get all of the education and experience that you need yourself.