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6 Steps to Secure Your International Teaching Position Before the New School Year

The holiday season is not just a time for relaxation and family gatherings; it’s also the perfect moment to take charge of your career goals. If you’re a South African teacher dreaming of teaching abroad, there’s no better time than now to begin the application process. By getting ahead during the holidays, you can secure your international teaching position and be ready for an exciting new chapter by the next school year. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started as securing an offer is just the beginning, you’ll need to prepare for your transition abroad.


Reflect and Commit to Your Decision

Before diving into the application process, take time to consider what you truly want from this experience. Relocating abroad is a life-changing decision that requires careful thought and commitment. Decide whether you prefer a teaching experience and contract in the Middle East or Australia. Speak to your family and friends about your goals and what this move means for you and them. Ensuring that you have their support and have addressed any concerns will make your journey smoother and more fulfilling.


Ask yourself questions like:

  • What are my long-term career and personal goals?

  • Am I ready to adapt to a new cultural environment?

  • How will this move impact my family or personal relationships?

  • Am I looking for a shorter (2 year) commitment teaching in the Middle East or is this move more permanent in nature for you and your family; in which case a move to Australia may be a better fit.

  • What kind of notice period do I need to give at my current school?

  • What are my current financial obligations? Can I afford to take on an international teaching contract either in the Middle East or Australia?

By having these discussions and reflecting deeply, you can approach the recruitment process with clarity and confidence. Schools and recruitment agencies, including SA-Recruitment, value applicants who demonstrate commitment and preparedness.


Polish Your Professional Profile

When you’re ready to proceed, approach the recruitment process with dedication. Schools and recruitment agencies like SA-Recruitment value applicants who are well-prepared and committed to their decision to teach internationally.


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The first step to securing your dream teaching position is to ensure your professional documents are up to date and tailored for international opportunities. This includes:

  • Updating your CV: Highlight your teaching experience, qualifications, and any leadership roles you’ve undertaken. Be sure to include any international teaching certifications, if applicable. SA-Recruitment has a CV template relevant for international teaching positions in the Middle East as well as for Australia click here

  • Compiling references: Gather strong, up-to-date references from previous employers or colleagues who can vouch for your teaching skills.

  • Organizing necessary documentation: Many international schools require copies of your teaching qualifications, transcripts, a police clearance certificate, SAQA letter etc. Start gathering these documents now to avoid delays later. Click here to find a list of some of the documents you need to start gathering.

SA-Recruitment can guide you through this process, ensuring your profile meets the expectations of top schools abroad.


Research Your Preferred Destinations

Take some time to explore the regions and schools you’re interested in. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant culture of the Middle East or the sunny shores of Australia, understanding your potential destination is key.


Consider factors such as:

  • Cultural Landscape: Familiarize yourself with the cultural and environmental surroundings of your preferred location. If it is the Middle East, consider the culture and lifestyle of the particular region and if you prefer the lifestyle and culture of Australia, then begin researching your preferred regions within this country.

  • Lifestyle: Think about the culture, climate, and cost of living in your prospective new home and how this relates or mirrors your professional and personal goals as well as the reasons you are looking to make the move to teach abroad.

  • Benefits packages: Research what schools typically offer, such as tax-free salaries in the Middle East or the possibility of permanent residency or citizenship in Australia. Again, see how these align to your reason(s0 for the move overseas.

At SA-Recruitment, we provide detailed insights into these destinations, helping you make an informed decision.



Start Your Applications Early

International schools often begin hiring months in advance of the new academic year. Australian schools start in January so schools often begin recruitment a good 6 months beforehand (May, June) whereas positions starting in June will have recruitment starting the December/January before.

Schools in the Middle East start in August/September and their recruitment often starts early in the New Year (January).

Here's how to optimize your application process:

  • Tailor your application: When SA-Recruitment advertises a vacancy, read through the requirements to make sure you meet them before applying. This shows your attention to detail, and being aware of what the necessary requirements are and not just applying for every vacancy that is advertised.

  • Submit complete applications: Ensure all required documents are included to avoid delays and make use of the CV template on SA-Recruitment's website to make sure that the relevant information is included.

  • Attention to detail: It is imperative that you make sure your communications with a recruitment agency, as well as your CV and relevant documentation are well worded and devoid of any spelling mistakes. This communication is what a recruitment agency/potential employer will judge you on and these types of mistakes are not well received.

With SA-Recruitment’s expertise, you can navigate the application process smoothly and efficiently.


Prepare for Interviews

Once your applications are submitted, although no guarantee of a contract or an interview it is never a bad thing to think positively and to make sure you are prepared should you receive an interview request.

Interviews for international teaching positions often take place virtually, so be prepared to make a strong impression online.

  • Test your technology: If you are not familiar with common online interviewing platforms now is the time. Schools in the Middle East and Australia will often use Zoom/Google to conduct these interviews so it would be a good idea to familiarise yourself with these platforms. Ensure your internet is good, your webcam is working and that you are comfortable interacting with these platforms.

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  • Practice: Thinking about possible questions you might need to answer in a formal interview with a school either in the Middle East or Australia, is also a good way of getting into the right headspace needed to ace these interviews. Should there be a request coming through from a school to offer an interview, SA-Recruitment will assist in the preparation but clicking here will take you through to a list of these potential questions.

SA-Recruitment offers interview preparation resources to help you showcase your skills and stand out as a candidate.


Plan Your Finances for the International Move

A move overseas is not just a professional shift; it’s a financial commitment as well. Regardless of your destination, careful financial planning will ensure a smoother transition. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Authentication and registration fees: Many countries require your teaching documents to be authenticated, and some may need you to register or take additional qualification tests. These processes often come with fees. Check with SA-Recruitment about these costs to confirm your own research.

  • Initial expenses: If you are looking to move to Australia, plan for costs such as flights, temporary accommodation, and setting up your new home. For the Middle East, costs attached to document authentication are the most pressing. For both locations it’s also essential to have enough funds to support yourself until you receive your first paycheck.

  • Currency exchange and bank setup: Research the banking system in your destination and prepare for initial currency exchanges, which might involve transaction fees. For example, make sure that you research what information from your SA bank you would need to provide to a potential bank abroad.

Starting a financial plan now will save you stress later and it is important for teachers from South Africa to do their research in good time. SA-Recruitment can provide guidance on what to expect financially and how to budget effectively for your move.



Take the First Step Today

The journey to securing your international teaching position starts with a single step. By using the holiday season to prepare, you’ll be ahead of the curve and ready to embrace an exciting new adventure. Whether you’re aiming for the dynamic Middle East or the welcoming schools of Australia, SA-Recruitment is here to help you every step of the way. Let’s make 2024 the year you achieve your teaching dreams!



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