Teacher stories are so powerful and such a fantastic way for new teachers to learn what it is really really like to teach in the Middle East - what to expect, what are the challenges, what are the benefits and also some of the handy tips these teachers can pass along to new teachers that will really help them to settle quickly.
Teachers stories are also very useful in introducing teachers to locations they might not have considered previously - we see this time and time again and Jaeme's story of her life in Oman might just do that!
Why did you contact SA-Recruitment to assist you in securing you position abroad?
To start of with, I would like to thank SA Recruitment for a wonderful and smooth experience I have had with them. I was referred to SA Recruitment by a family member as I was not getting any luck with online platforms such as Teach Away nor was I getting any responses from contacting schools directly. I was very nervous at first as you hear many horror stories of false companies or agencies that charge for services. SA Recruitment did not charge me for their services as the school employing you will cover the costs. Nicole was my consultant and walked through each step. I am extremely happy with the placement SA Recruitment put me in.
What do you enjoy most about teaching abroad so far?
I get to live a 'working holiday'. I often looked at social media posts of teachers who taught abroad and thought 'I want that for myself' or 'how is it possible?. Well it is! I love to immerse myself in different cultures, experiences and travel. I could not do this back home as I couldn't financially support a stable home and my wanderlust impulses. When you start teaching abroad there are many opportunities to travel and even save money along the way. I have found a traveling group that I join for weekly adventures touring the country.
What has been the most challenging thing about living in a new country and teaching in a new school environment?
The most challenging thing is that nothing can fully prepare you for the job that lies ahead. Being open-minded is key to your success. Try not to overthink everything and come in with a mindset to learn. It is easy to compare when you get into a new country, however, I find myself saying "if I wanted it to be like SA I would've stayed back home". Reality is that the unknown can be scary and at times challenging, but just know that you would get the opportunity only if its meant for you.
The culture of the local people plays a huge part in the teaching and learning processes. I would suggest joining a SA Facebook group for the country of your choice and connect with other teachers. This is part of researching about the culture and practices of the country you are interested in going to.
How does the cost of living compare to South Africa?
I would say that some things are expensive if you convert costs to Rands, however a word of advice is to avoid doing that at all costs (excuse the pun). You earn enough money on a teachers salary to buy what you would want and need. Cooking can be cheaper if you cook big meals that last a few days but there are many takeout options that are very affordable. I thought coming to Oman I would need to stock up on my favourite items but you'd be surprised that these countries have almost everything you would need.
Petrol, data, wifi, electricity and water as reasonably priced. Buying a car, renting a car or taking a private taxi (like an Uber) is about the same cost monthly if you have to travel to and from work daily.
How do you feel about safety?
As a South African female, it goes without saying that we never feel safe; not in our homes and certainly not at a robot in town. But my experiences in Oman have taught me that there are safe places. I have been living in Oman's capital city for 6 weeks now and not once have I felt unsafe or fearful. I have heard many stories of people mistakenly leaving their phones and other items in public spaces, only to return in complete fear that the items is stolen. Chances are, your phone will still be there. Now if that doesn't impress you I'm sure what will!
I travelled to Oman all on my own, a country I had never heard of before contacting SA recruitment. This is my first teaching job abroad and I have no regrets. The country takes pride in its safety statistics and has a good reputation for safety and security.
What is the best advice you can give to teachers considering the move?
I have had the dream of teaching abroad since the completion of my undergraduate degree. Life got busy and I truly thought that my chances of teaching overseas had passed, that was until one day I STOPPED thinking about it and just took the leap of faith. I uprooted my life and literally placed it into a storage unit. I left behind my dogs, my family and my fiancé. But the greatest piece of advice I can give you is just take the leap. Firstly, you miss all the chances you don't take. Secondly, there are so many support channels around and you are highly likely to meet a South African or 2. Last, but certainly not least, if things don't work out you can always go home, but at least you don't have to live with the 'what ifs'.
Any apps etc. you could recommend to new teachers coming over?
There are 2 apps I will not go without in Oman which are Otaxi and Talabat. Besides Otaxi, you can also use Tasleem Taxi app which can be a little cheaper than Otaxi. Talabat is an app for anything you might need, From Take out food to pharmacy pick ups.
Jaeme's story is such a testament to keeping your options open, doing the research, working with a reliable and professional recruiter and taking that leap of faith. Well done Jaeme!
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