There has never been a better time to enter the exciting world of international teaching.  We have put together ten reasons why now is the time to get proactive and make 2012 the year you made it happen!

1. Professional development

It is a common misconception that international schools are places where you get into bad teaching habits. On the contrary, many international schools offer teachers generous training and professional development budgets. Curricula like the International Baccalaureate offer exceptional training courses all over the world offering teachers the chance to train in other international destinations.

2. New international schools

Forget the army or diplomatic service, teaching is by a long way the profession offering the best opportunities to work abroad. These days, most major cities in almost every country have an international school and the number of schools is growing rapidly providing an ever larger variety of schools to choose from.

3. The economic climate

We’re all aware that over the next few years we’re going to feel ‘the pinch’ and have to ‘tighten our belts’. Funding is being cut, wages are being frozen and resources cupboards are looking emptier. So when better to head to distant shores (many of which are less affected by the economic situation) to teach, learn and explore for a couple of years?

4. Technological developments

Living abroad no longer means a life away from friends and loved ones. Technological developments such as Facebook, Skype, video conferencing, and instant messaging means that it’s much easier to stay in touch with friends and family than ever before. And cheaper flights make it easy for them to come and visit your new home!

5. The global perspective

There has recently been a far greater emphasis on teaching young people to be global citizens and many countries are incorporating this ‘global dimension’ as a core part of their curriculum. Experience working abroad with teachers from around the world and teaching a truly international curriculum to pupils from a diverse range of countries is a fantastic way to bring this to life but at abroad and when you return home.

6. Start afresh

Moving abroad can be an extremely liberating experience. Its exciting finding a new house, exploring the local market, making new friends, practising a new language and getting a much deeper insight into a new culture and way of life.

7. Returning home

It used to be that teaching abroad wasn’t taken seriously by some schools back home and viewed as a bit of a ‘gap year’. Fortunately, most Headteachers and Principals are now more forward looking and appreciate the value of teachers who have gained experience abroad. Many schools are introducing curricula such as the International Baccalaureate themselves, making teachers with international experience an ever more sought after resource.

8. Travel

If you’ve lived abroad before, you will appreciate how it offers a far greater insight into a country than a holiday or backpacking can. Living abroad also offers fantastic travel opportunities. Weekends can be spent exploring coastlines or mountain villages whilst long school holidays free you up to get to know an entire new continent!

9. The information age

Until recently, it was difficult to find out everything you wanted to about an international school before taking a job. Today most schools have websites providing some information and we offer much more detail to help you find the right school for you. Best of all, it’s completely FREE for teachers. Click here to view an example of a school profile.

10. No regrets

Research indicates that over half of all teachers in the UK have at some point ‘considered’ teaching abroad at some point but the majority never get round to it. It’s easy for years to start to pass by, situations to change and roots to deepen. If you’re seriously considering teaching abroad, we strongly encourage you to be proactive in your search, to complete your profile in detail and make 2012 a year you’ll never forget!

Click here to sign up to Teacher Horizons (it takes just 60 seconds but may change your life!)

Explore. Connect. Share.
We're the world's leading community of international teachers. More than just a job search, Teacher Horizons is your online home, wherever your journey takes you.