Preparing For Your Move

1. School & Teaching Environment

1. What curriculum is used (e.g., British, American, IB), and how closely does it align with the UK system

2. What is the average class size, and what is the typical student-to-teacher ratio?

3. Can you tell me about the student body? (e.g., diversity, language proficiency, nationalities)

4. What kind of resources and technology are available in classrooms?

5. How is teacher performance evaluated, and what support is offered for professional development?

6. Are there opportunities to lead extracurricular activities or contribute to curriculum development?
   

2. Working Conditions & Expectations

1. What are the school hours, and what are typical working hours for teachers?

2. Are there specific dress code or cultural expectations that teachers should be aware of?

3. How are lesson planning and curriculum design handled—are teachers expected to create their own, or is there a set curriculum to follow?

4. Are there opportunities for promotion or advancement within the school?
   

3. Health & Safety

1. Are there reputable medical facilities nearby?

2. What support does the school offer in case of an emergency (e.g., medical emergencies, natural disasters, or political unrest)?

3. What health and safety protocols are in place for staff and students?
   

4. Transition & Induction

1. Is there an orientation program for new teachers?

2. Are there other British or English-speaking teachers at the school who can help with the transition? Can I have a buddy for the first few days / weeks?

3. Will someone from the school meet me at the airport or assist me with settling in?

4. Can someone help with my accommodation search?
   

5. Family & Dependents (If Applicable)

1. Is there support for spouses in finding employment?

2. Are there family-friendly resources or facilities nearby (e.g. play centres, creches, parks, healthcare)?
   

6. Additional Questions About Local Area ​

1. What’s the community like in terms of social life and expatriate networks?

2. Are there particular considerations or restrictions regarding lifestyle or cultural practices in the country?

3. How easy is it to travel around the region or back to the UK?

Preparing For The Trip

Taking up a teaching role overseas is an exciting and rewarding opportunity, but it also requires careful preparation and adaptation. Here are a few essential tips to help you get ready for your big move and settle in smoothly:

1. Understand The Local Culture & Language​

1. Research cultural norms:
   Spend time learning about the country’s culture, social etiquette, and traditions. Understanding cultural norms, especially regarding respectful communication, greetings, and dress, will help you avoid misunderstandings and connect positively with colleagues and new friends.

2. Learn basic phrases:
   Even a few words of the local language can go a long way. Start with basic phrases like greetings, which can show respect for the culture.  Use an app like Duolingo or Google Translate to quickly translate unfamiliar words and learn the basics.

3. Respect religious and social practices: In some countries, religious or social practices may differ significantly from the UK. Understanding these practices, especially if they impact daily life (e.g., certain holidays, food restrictions, prayer times), will help you integrate comfortably.

2. Organise Important Documents

1. Prepare and scan copies:
   Ensure you have hard copies and digital backups of essential documents, including your passport, visa, teaching certifications, employment contract, and medical records.

2. Check expiration dates:
   Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay, as many countries require this for entry.

3. Secure your qualifications:
   Some countries may require a formal validation of your qualifications, so check with the school or local authorities to see if any additional documentation or apostilles (official government seals) are required.

4. Take care of health needs:
   Get a health check-up before leaving to address any health needs. Some countries may require specific vaccinations, so research health requirements well in advance.

5. Review Your Health Insurance: Confirm with your school what health insurance coverage is provided and understand the extent of it. If the coverage is limited, consider arranging for additional private insurance, especially if you’re moving with dependents.

6. Pack necessary medications:
   If you take regular medication, check if it’s available in your destination country. Bring a supply, along with a prescription or a doctor’s note, to avoid issues at customs.

3. Plan Financially

1. Understand local currency and banking:
   Familiarize yourself with the local currency and plan how to handle daily expenses. It may also be useful to research how and where you can access your UK bank accounts.

2. Open a local bank account (if needed):
   Check with your school to see if they assist with opening a local bank account for salary deposits. This will make it easier to manage finances and avoid international fees.

3. Set up savings for emergency:
   Consider setting up a small emergency fund in both your UK account and locally in case you encounter unexpected expenses during your initial months abroad.

4. Sort Out Housing & Cost of Living

1. Research housing options:
   If your school doesn’t provide housing, start researching local rental costs, areas near the school, and the process for securing housing. If housing is provided, ask for photos or descriptions so you know what to expect.

2. Budget for local costs:
   Use online resources to estimate the cost of living in your new city – a really good site is: Numbeo - Cost of living
   This site includes information on the comparative costs of food, transport, utilities, and entertainment. This will help you set realistic expectations and budget accordingly.

5. Pack Wisely & Prepare For Local Climate

1. Prioritise Essentials:
   International shipping can be expensive, so prioritise essentials, especially personal care items, and any teaching supplies you may not easily find abroad.

2. Adapt to the climate:
   Check the local climate and pack accordingly. Some countries may require year-round warm-weather clothing, while others have extreme seasons that require a range of gear.

3. Bring comfort items:
   If you have room, bring a few items from home that bring comfort, like favourite books, decor, or family photos. These can help ease homesickness and make your new place feel more like home.

6. Build a Support Network

1. Connect with colleagues beforehand:
   Many international schools have networks or social media groups for expatriate staff. Joining these groups can help you connect with colleagues, ask questions, and get recommendations.

2. Seek expat communities:
   Many cities with international schools also have large expatriate communities. Look for local expat groups or events, which can provide a support network and tips for adapting to your new home.

7. Prepare For Cultural Adjustment

1. Keep an open mind:
   Culture shock is normal, especially in the first few months. Embrace the experience by keeping an open mind and staying curious about your new surroundings.

2. Practice patience and flexibility:
   Working in an international setting may come with unexpected challenges or delays, from administrative hurdles to language barriers. Remaining patient and flexible will help you adapt more smoothly.

3. Maintain connections to home:
   Schedule regular calls with family and friends to help balance the excitement of your new role with the familiarity of home, especially during times of homesickness.

8. Understand Local Transportation & Travel

1. Plan your commute:
   Familiarize yourself with local transportation options and decide whether you’ll be relying on public transit, cycling, or perhaps even driving (if your license is accepted or convertible).

2. Travel documents and customs:
   If you plan to travel within the region, research visa requirements for neighbouring countries and keep your travel documents ready.

9. Stay Organised & Embrace The Experience

1. Create a moving checklist:
   Keep a checklist (Excel is good for this to track progress) to track tasks like packing, securing visas, and setting up bank accounts. Staying organized will help you manage the details and reduce stress before your move.

2. ​Set personal and professional goals:
   Think about what you hope to achieve during your time abroad, both professionally and personally. Setting goals can give you focus and a sense of purpose as you start this new adventure.

3. ​Embrace change:
   Moving abroad can be transformative. Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and experience life from a different perspective. Every challenge and new experience will contribute to your personal and professional development.

   ​By planning ahead and preparing with an open mind, you can make the most of your international teaching experience. Moving overseas to teach is not only a chance to educate students but also to immerse yourself in a new culture, gain global perspectives, and expand your personal and professional horizons. Safe travels and best of luck in your new role

Compliance Checks & Safeguarding

It’s crucial to understand the compliance and safeguarding expectations associated with teaching in an international setting. These guidelines ensure that teachers meet local requirements, protect student well-being, and maintain high professional standards. Here are some key areas to consider: 

1. Understand Local Compliance Requirements

1. Background Checks:
   Most international schools require a recent enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check or equivalent, even for teachers coming from overseas. In some cases, they may request an updated check from your home country, so be prepared to provide this documentation.

2. Qualification Validation:
   Some countries may require you to validate or even notarise your teaching qualifications to meet local standards. This process may involve official translations or additional documentation, so confirm with your school or local embassy about what is required.

3. Health Checks:
   Certain countries require a medical examination before you can secure a work visa. These checks can include tests for specific conditions or vaccinations, so find out what’s needed well in advance to avoid delays.

4. Visa and Work Permits:
   The process for obtaining a work visa varies widely depending on the country. Ensure that your school assists with this process and clarifies which documents you need to submit and any timeframes to expect.

2. Stay Up to Date with Safeguarding Policies

1. ​Familiarise Yourself with the School’s Safeguarding Protocols:
   Each school should have a set of safeguarding policies in place, often based on both local regulations and international standards. Familiarise yourself with these policies to understand how the school protects student welfare and handles any concerns.

2. Understand Your Role as a Mandated Reporter:
   Many countries and schools require teachers to report any suspected harm, abuse, or neglect. Make sure you understand the specific procedures and channels for reporting within your school.

3. Complete Any Required Safeguarding Training:
   Some international schools require mandatory safeguarding training. If not provided, consider completing a recognised online safeguarding course to familiarise yourself with standard practices.

3. Be Aware of Cultural Differences in Safeguarding

1. Local Legal and Cultural Norms:
   Safeguarding practices can vary based on local laws and cultural norms. While maintaining high standards, be mindful of any differences in acceptable behaviours, parental involvement, and student-teacher relationships.

2. Student Privacy and Data Protection:
   Some countries have strict data privacy regulations (similar to GDPR in the UK) that affect how student information is handled. Know what information can be shared and stored, both within the school and with parents, and familiarise yourself with local data protection laws.

4. Develop Boundaries & Professional Conduct

1. Maintain Professional Boundaries:
   Teaching in international settings may mean living closer to students or having more frequent social interactions. Set clear boundaries to maintain professionalism and avoid misunderstandings.

2. Social Media Guidelines:
   Many schools have policies around social media use, especially in regard to communicating with students. Follow these guidelines closely and consider setting privacy restrictions on your social media accounts to protect both yourself and your students.

5. Prepare to Work with Diverse and Vulnerable Populations

1. Training for Diverse Classrooms:
   International classrooms often include students from different backgrounds, some of whom may face unique challenges. If possible, seek training in areas like trauma-informed practices, cultural sensitivity, and differentiated learning to help support all students.

2. Supporting Students with Additional Needs:
   International schools may have students who speak multiple languages or who are adjusting to new cultures. Familiarize yourself with the school’s resources and practices for supporting these students.

6. Know Your Rights and Protections

1. Teacher Protections:
   Research any legal protections or support available for teachers. Some countries have unions or expatriate networks that offer assistance if needed.

2. Emergency Procedures:
   Ensure you’re aware of the school’s policies for handling emergencies, whether related to student safety or broader crises like natural disasters or political unrest. Know who to contact and the protocols to follow in case of an incident.
   
   
   By understanding compliance and safeguarding expectations, you’ll be better prepared to support your students while protecting yourself professionally. Adhering to these standards is not only crucial for student welfare but also for fostering trust within your school community and ensuring a positive teaching experience overseas. ​​