Showing posts with label International Schools. Show all posts
Showing posts with label International Schools. Show all posts

Wednesday, 25 March 2015

Online EdDs and PhDs

Updated 20 March 2017

If you're looking for an online masters degree program, please read this post.

Here are a few programs that offer doctorate degrees that can be earned completely online or only require a few on-campus sessions that are usually held for a couple days during breaks. Some of these universities are B and M (brick and mortar) and others are online schools. Do your research thoroughly before choosing a school. 

Don't just choose a programme based on price! You can get grants for doing a doctorate. Check out profellows for more info. If you're looking for encouragement while drudging through your programme, PhinisheD is a great website with like-minded people. More info can be found at ISR: distance degree programmes. 

Doctoral degrees aren't the end all. Here are some articles against them.

Australia

Canada

Korea

New Zealand

South Africa

United Kingdom

 United States

Disclaimer:

Monday, 17 November 2014

Alternative Licensure and Getting a Teaching License Online

Updated 20 August 2018

Here are some ways to get your teaching license online or through an alternative programme. Find out more by reading teaching at an international school. There are also a number of good books that will tell you how to get an international school job.

Teaching Licenses and Awards Via Distance Education
All the places are in the U.S. unless otherwise noted. Some of them require you to complete student teaching on their campus while others let you do it at an international school overseas.
Licensure for American Citizens and Residents
This section is for Americans and those living in the US. Alternative Certification Programmes are becoming popular as are teaching fellowship programmes.  Be aware that often these positions are in high-needs schools, where up to half of the students dropout or in special needs schools.You can check salaries at Teacher Portal.
 Renewing Your License
Some states are easier than others 

Disclaimer:

Wednesday, 17 September 2014

10 Qualities You Need to Be a DOS

PC Parrot wrote a list of 10 qualities necessary to head the PD (professional development) department at this post on Dave's. I think that all of these apply to those who want to become a head teacher, HD (head of department) or a DOS (director of study). Oxford TEFL has an online course for those wanting to be DOSes.
  1. Qualified teacher who holds a teaching license, a DELTA, and an MA TESOL.
  2. Qualified teacher trainer.
  3. Can accept criticism.
  4. Doesn't resort to put downs like "If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem" .. because they actually want to encourage feedback - both negative and positive.
  5. Doesn't believe that professional development is voluntary if it forms part of the teacher evaluation system.
  6. Doesn't believe that a department which invests heavily in professional development will look equally upon those who take part in the devised program and those who chose instead to pursue their own private professional development.
  7. Doesn't come to the table with the belief that teachers are lazy and do nothing but pop into class for a couple of hours a day.
  8. Doesn't believe they are a great teacher, but instead aspires to constantly improve themselves.
  9. Doesn't worry about their popularity, but is more concerned about earning the trust and respect of the teachers they will be training.
  10. Someone who allows people to question the value of what they are doing - especially when the crticism comes from people who are more qualified.

Disclaimer:

Saturday, 23 August 2014

Hindrances to Getting Hired as a Teacher Overseas

The economy has a lot to do with things. If there are no jobs at home, more people will be looking at going overseas. Don't think there's going to be a huge flood of teachers though. While numbers do increase when the economy goes belly-up, many people don't want to deal with moving and uprooting their families. You can read more at Laid-Off Public School Teachers May Flood the Fairs.

Keep in mind that some schools, such as international schools prefer single teachers or teaching couples with few or no dependents. If you are married to a non-teacher it may be harder to find a job. If you are married to a non-teacher and have dependent children it will be harder. There's a list of the best international school job fairs for people with kids and bringing dependents with you.

Age can be an issue as well. The cut off age seems to range between 55-65 depending on the school and the country that it's in. You might be too young as well. Malaysia, for example, won't issue teaching visas to those under the age of 26.

Not enough experience. Some schools prefer you to have at least 2 years teaching experience. Others may be willing to waive this requirement. 

Nationality can be a problem too. While many teachers want to teach in Europe, some schools don't want to jump through the hoops of getting work visas for those without EU passports or those who can already teach there (for example, spouses of EU citizens). Read Europe for non-EU passport holders for more info.

If you want to teach at an international school check out what esl4everever says on this post, "From what I understand American schools do not require you to have any type of dual or EU citizenship. American schools are backed by the United States Department of State. The schools are supposed to be ran by US standards to a point although they are located in another country." Whether this is true or not I'm not sure. It's best to check with each individual school. I know that DODEA schools only hire Americans or those with permission to work in the US, so that might be an option.

Not being certified may be an issue, though there are ways around it. Here's some info on how working as a PNET (Primary Native English Teacher) in Hong Kong could help land you an international school job.

Not being a native speaker. Some schools are very strict on this policy and will only hire native English speakers.

More information. There are also a number of good books that will tell you how to get an international school job.

Disclaimer:

Friday, 22 August 2014

Do You Need a License to Teach at an International School?

No Teaching License?
You can still get hired at an international school. Different schools have different rules. Your background will also come into play. Find out more by reading teaching at an international school. There are also a number of good books with information on how to get an international school job.
  • The type of school. Some schools, such as Christian schools may will accept teachers with no license.
  • Where the school is located. Those in less popular countries (such as Myanmar, China, Indonesia, Middle Eastern countries, Bangladesh, Azerbaijan) may accept teachers with no license.
  • Even if you want to work in a popular country you could get a job, depending on your background and experience. Schools need people with real life experience and know-how.
  • If you are already in country as a resident you might also be able to work full or part-time. The best thing to do is apply to schools and see what they say. 

What Do People At International Schools Think?
ISR wrote a post about in November 2009 called, International Teaching Without Credentials. They also have info about having a Master of Education, but no teaching cert. People are very opinionated about this topic, but many teachers as well as principals believe that non-certified teachers can be good teachers. Read their opinions below.
Against Teachers Without Formal Qualifications
  • syed hammeed says that teaching without credentials doesn't fit the profession.
  • Louis says quality of teaching doesn't matter; only licenses do.
  • Pete Janda hires teachers and says it's better to hire teachers with licenses because they know how to teach various levels, write a lesson plan, and know the current education trends.
  • Idaflorence says she can tell an unqualified teacher from far away.
  • Nicola Scales says that she wouldn't go to a dentist, doctor, or lawyer without certifications so why should teachers be different?
  • gaia says that they have had nothing but trouble with uncertified teachers. Schools can help people become certified as well.

Those On The Fence
  • Mercury started as a non-certified teacher, but decided to go back and get his license.
  • Amy says that good schools will not hire uncertified teachers but that there are also certified teachers who can't teach.

In Favour Of Teachers Without Formal Qualifications
  • cbp disagrees with Louis and said quality of teaching doesn't matter; only licenses do.
  • Chris Davis says that although he has an MEd and has homeschooled his three kids, been the principal of a school, and lecturer, he doesn't have a teaching license.
  • teach 2010 says that there are many credentialed teachers who can't actually teach.
  • Hellei has been teaching in international schools since 2000 and doesn't have a license. While it's hard to get a job, she shows that it's not impossible.
  • DB says that a piece of paper doesn't mean you can teach. There are many licensed teachers who are unqualified.
  • Between cultures says that she was raised abroad, but is a non-Japanese speaking Japanese citizen and because of that can't get a Japanese teaching license and can't get a US one because she's not American.
  • Agunshka says that some teachers can be good without a cert and that it's hard for overseas teachers to keep their qualifications current. In addition, some certified teachers get to the top not because they're good teachers but because they're good at politics.
  • Jill has over 25 years experience and has successfully taught at international schools without being a licensed teacher.
  • lostone says you shouldn't just be judged on a piece of paper.
  • D says that licensed proved nothing other than the fact that you can jump through the necessary hoops to get one.
  • grm says that you have to promote quality education, not bits of paper.
  • Soumaya is a school principal and has hired certified and non-certified teachers.
  • Indigo Blue says that having real life experience has helped her teach and her students are happy to learn useful info.
  • Chris states that although he isn't certified, there's a ton of useless info that students are learning in school and that is being taught by certified teachers.&
  • molson says that 90% of the things being taught are a waste of time.
  • Duras says that he say people switch their majors to teaching because it was the easier thing to do. He also saw qualified teachers stop teaching because it was too hard, they had too little vacation, were bored, etc. He also says there are too many programmes out there trying to get teachers.
  • anonymous says being a good teacher is innate.
  • Anonymous makes a good point by saying he would hire a person who has 10 years teaching experience with no certificate before a first year certified teacher. If a non certified teacher has managed to work hard for ten years, get hired by schools, make a difference in the classroom, and build a portfolio then why not? There are many exceptions to the rule, life is not one way.
Getting a Teaching License
  • Some schools may help you get certified. Many Christian schools accept certification through ACSI and certification is relatively quick and easy if you have a degree. Salaries at NICS may not be as high as secular international schools. 20% get a full salary and benefits. 30% are offered a partial salary and the other 50% have to raise their own support.
  • You can get your license online.
  • Some international school recruiters may help you as well. Search Associates used to do this and others may as well. Find a list of recruiters here.

Disclaimer:

Tuesday, 17 December 2013

International Teachers' Bill of Rights

If you're working at an international school you might be protected by the International Teachers' Bill of Rights. You can read more at ISR.

Disclaimer:

Tuesday, 10 December 2013

Teaching Abroad and Saving Money

Money's always an issue. Some countries pay more than others. Many people will say that TEFL teachers are grossly underpaid, but others say that money's not that important.

Where to Teach and Retire
You can find some info about the highest paying countries in What's the Best Country To Teach English In? As a teacher you probably won't get rich, but here's a list of countries where you can afford to retire in style. There are also a number of good books about retiring abroad out there.

Budgeting and Earning More
No matter where you are you should learn how to budget and start saving now. If you've good qualifications and experience you should consider asking for a higher salary, more perks, or more benefits. ISR has an article about negotiating a higher salary and people who decide to change careers and get into education.

If you're looking at doing some extra work you could take on more education jobs or try working online.

The exchange rate is also something to take into consideration if you're being paid in the local currency. Check out Can You Afford to Take This Job? for more info. 

International Schools
If you'd like to teach at an international school look at Best and Worst School Benefit Packages, as well as Schools With High Savings Potential, and finally For-Profit vs Non-Profit $chools.

Disclaimer:

Thursday, 14 November 2013

Job Site: Teach Anywhere

If you're a licensed teacher (or have a BA, TEFL cert, and 3 years TEFL experience) and are from one of the 7 English speaking countries (Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK, or the US), then you can literally travel the world with Teach Anywhere.

You can search for jobs or register with them to find out when upcoming jobs fit your profile. Although they're a recruiter, they tend to be one of the better one.


Got an idea for a job site?
Email me with your job site, name, and website (if you have one) and I'll post it ASAP.

Disclaimer:

Friday, 1 November 2013

International Baccalaureate (IBO schools)

If you're a licensed teacher then you should look into teaching at IBO schools. If you aren't a licensed teacher already, look at International Schools for more information about becoming one.

IBO schools are a specific type of international schools. Try reading the article, International Schools to find out more about how to find jobs, recruiting fairs, and recruiting schedules.

There are three sections in the IBO. Some schools only offer one of these programmes and some have all three.
  • PYP: primary years programme
  • MYP: middle years programme
  • IB: diploma programme
IBO's Teaching Awards
There are postgrad certificates and diplomas available for those who teach in or want to teach in IBO schools. See the IBO's website for more information. Murdoch University in Australia also has a PGCE available.

Disclaimer:

Monday, 14 October 2013

Job Site: Schools dot ac

They've got a directory of international schools all over the world as well as a recruitment fair. If you're looking for an international school job, then Schools.ac is a great place to start.

You can search by continent or country and they also have a world map of all their schools. Their recruitment fair is free and there are over 1500 schools that are a member of their site, so it's well worth your while.


Got an idea for a job site?
Email me with your job site, name, and website (if you have one) and I'll post it ASAP.

Disclaimer:

Tuesday, 1 October 2013

Teaching in Switzerland

Working in the EU is hard for people without EU passports, but it's still possible. See the article, EU for non-EU passport holders for more info. You might also want to take a look at teaching at international schools and teaching exchanges and fellowships. Switzerland is hard for both EU and non-EU passport holders alike, but there are still ways to legally live and/or work in Switzerland. You can find 8 ideas below.

1. Commute
Switzerland is hard even for EU citizens to work in. My friend is British and wants to work there. She can't. So she's looking into living in France on the border and spending the weekends in Switzerland.

2. International Schools
You can try to get a job at an international school in one of the countries near Switzerland. If you're interested in working in the EU and spending the weekends in Switzerland, see EU for non-EU passport holders for more info.


3. Investor and Self-employment Visas in Switzerland
offers an investor visa for those from non-EU countries. Those from EU countries can get a self-employment visa or an independent visa.

4. Fellowships in Switzerland
There are legal ways to work in the EU and Switzerland through fellowships and teaching exchanges. DECS is one of the organisations that places teachers in Switzerland, as well as Denmark, France, Germany, and the UK.

5. Au Pair, Nanny, and Governess Jobs
Au Pairs are usually under the age of 30 and don't have formal childcare qualifications. Nannies do have formal qualifications. Governesses usually teach the children as well as care for them. You can find a list of programmes here, WHV and short term jobs.

6. Marriage
If you get married, you can legally live there.

7. Study
If you study in Switzerland, you may be able to work part-time and then find a job in Switzerland after graduation. You could even study a foreign language like French of German. 

8. More info about the EU and Switzerland

You can find lots of info Europe for non-Europeans. Read through it all and then look at the bottom. There are country specific programmes. The Ministries of Education of France and Spain have programmes that place Asst English teachers around those countries. You won't make much, about €700 a month, which is about $1000, but you'll be in Europe legally and could easily fly to Switzerland on airlines such as Easy Jet and Ryan Air.

9. Move to a different country
Many times it's easier to live in a third country. I lived in my husband's for 6 years, now we live in Korea. We're both foreigners and it's much easier that way.

Conclusion
Switzerland has been an oasis for many years and because of that it's harder to live in legally than other countries. However, nothing is impossible. With a bit of luck, hard work, and research you should be able to go there.

Disclaimer:

Tuesday, 24 September 2013

Job Site: Quality Schools International


Another site for those looking for international school jobs, this one is Quality Schools International has a great site: simple and easy to navigate, and it's pretty to look at as well. All the schools on this site are non-profit international schools. They've got recruitment fairs as well as positions that you can apply to directly online.

There are about 4 dozen schools that are part of QSI. Recruitment mainly takes part at the beginning of the year. Like other job fairs, you'll have to pay a small fee, though it's worth it since you can interview with several schools. Many schools prefer teaching couples, so be aware of that when you apply.


Got an idea for a job site?
Email me with your job site, name, and website (if you have one) and I'll post it ASAP.

Disclaimer:

Saturday, 14 September 2013

Job Site: World Class Schools


If you're a UK citizen looking to teach in the US, then take a look at World Class Schools. They have two year contracts available to licensed British teachers.

All teachers should be familiar with the National Curriculum, the International Primary Curriculum, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. You'll work in one of 6 schools around the US: Washington, Boston, Houston, Chicago, Charlotte, and New York. It's a great chance to see the US, so take a look at their site today.

Got an idea for a job site?
Email me with your job site, name, and website (if you have one) and I'll post it ASAP.

Disclaimer:

Thursday, 5 September 2013

Pros and Cons of a Teachers' Room

From cacaponinstitute.com
Having a teachers' room has its advantages and disadvantages. Don't confuse teachers' room with a shared office. In a teachers' room, there's usually a couple of big tables and shared work stations. No one has their own space. It's often used in elementary and high schools where teachers can go between classes. Let's take a look at some of them.

You might also be interested in reading

Pros
  • Lots of team spirit, bonding, motivating, and energy
  • Builds community
  • Less hierarchy and more transparency
  • You can share resources

Cons
  • It's hard to stay on task with all the comings and goings
  • Cramped
  • Few resources
  • Less privacy and security

Disclaimer:

Monday, 2 September 2013

Pros and Cons of Having Your Own Classroom

From catholicphoenix.com
Having your own classroom has its advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a look at some of them. You might also be interested in reading

Pros
  • It's your space so you can personalise the classroom
  • You can decorate it how you want
  • You can re-arrange the furniture
  • It's convenient
Cons
  • You'll have less interaction with other teachers
  • You might have to clean it
  • You're responsible for the students' belongings and the school's materials
  • You might have to spend your own money to decorate it

Disclaimer:

Saturday, 24 August 2013

Job Site: Teach Overseas

If you're a licensed teacher looking for a job overseas, then check out Teach Overseas. With over a decade of experience, they have teaching, management, and administrative jobs available is schools around the world.

While they don't have a job fair, you can apply for the jobs directly by sending your CV, cover letter and references. It's free, so you might as well give it a shot.

Got an idea for a job site?
Email me with your job site, name, and website (if you have one) and I'll post it ASAP.

Disclaimer:

Saturday, 10 August 2013

Job Site: International Supply Teachers

If you're a licensed teacher with two years experience looking for a job now that lasts 6 weeks to 12 months you need to check out IST. International Supply Teachers provides teachers with jobs in international schools with British, US and IB curricula. These schools have had an emergency vacancy and need supply/substitute teachers.

You'll make good money that will allow you to travel or save. Salaries and conditions vary according to the country and school, but they will pay for transport to the school and health insurance. You might also get free or subsidized accomodations and tax exempt salaries.

In addition to being a licensed teacher with two years experience you will have to provide three references (you have to get the reference forms for them. IST will not run after them) and travel without dependents and enjoy living and learning about new cultures and countries. You'll need to show copies of your qualifications and it can take up to a month for them to place you on the teachers' register. There's a one-off fee of less than $100, but it's well worth it if you're looking for a job at a quality school that's already been vetted by IST.


Got an idea for a job site?
Email me with your job site, name, and website (if you have one) and I'll post it ASAP.

Disclaimer:

Wednesday, 24 July 2013

Job Site: Hong Kong's NET Scheme


Hong Kong's Native English Teachers Scheme is great for teachers who want to work in HK. If you're a licensed teacher, you'll get paid more than if you're not. They can work with elementary or secondary school children. There are lots of hoops to jump through and you'll probably have fly out to interview in the US, UK, or Canada, but the pay is good, you'll sign a two year contract, and it looks great on your CV.

Got an idea for a job site?
Email me with your job site, name, and website (if you have one) and I'll post it ASAP

Disclaimer:

Sunday, 14 July 2013

Job Site: American Overseas Schools


Not a job site per se, but rather a list of American schools overseas. The US Department of State has a list of all the American Overseas Schools. No matter where in the world you want to teach, you can find basic information about the school as well as contact info. Be sure to check out their site if you're a licensed teacher and want to work abroad.


Got an idea for a job site?
Email me with your job site, name, and website (if you have one) and I'll post it ASAP

Disclaimer:

Wednesday, 10 July 2013

Non-licensed Teachers Can Work at International Schools

This has been taken from a post I wrote in 2008 called International Schools. You can find more information about international schools in that post, such as . . .
  1. The best countries to teach in
  2. Teaching licenses and awards via distance learning
  3. Licensure for American citizens and residents 
  4. International school job fairs
  5. Recruiting agencies
  6. Recruitment calendar
  7. Applying directly to schools
  8. What to do after accepting a job
No Teaching License?
You can still get hired at an international school. Some schools, such as Christian schools or those in less popular countries will accept teachers with no license. Even if you want to work in a popular country you could get a job, depending on your background and experience. Schools need people with real life experience and know-how.

ISR wrote a post about this back in November 2009 called, International Teaching Without Credentials. It just goes to show that it is possible to work at an international school if you don't have that little piece of paper. People are very opinionated about this topic, but it looks like many teachers as well as principals believe that non-certified teachers can be good teachers. Some saying that simply having a license makes you a teachers, others state that teachers are born not made.

Against Teachers Without Formal Qualifications
  • syed hammeed says that teaching without credentials doesn't fit the profession.
  • Louis says quality of teaching doesn't matter; only licenses do.
  • Pete Janda hires teachers and says it's better to hire teachers with licenses because they know how to teach various levels, write a lesson plan, and know the current education trends.
  • Idaflorence says she can tell an unqualified teacher from far away. 
  • mrb says that saying that anyone off the streets can teach is an insult to the teaching profession.
  • Richard Evans says that most uncertified teachers are at a disadvantage because they don't know how to manage a classroom or write lesson plans.
  • NIcola Scales says that she wouldn't go to a dentist, doctor, or lawyer without certifications so why should teachers be different?
  • Sandra says that teaching credentials are necessary and that schools accept non-certified teachers so that they can pay them less. She says certified teachers spend time and money on their credentials and uncertified teachers shouldn't get their jobs.
  • gaia says that they have had nothing but trouble with uncertified teachers. Schools can help people become certified as well.
Those On The Fence
  • Mercury started as a non-certified teacher, but decided to go back and get his license.  
  • Amy says that good schools will not hire uncertified teachers but that there are also certified teachers who can't teach.

In Favour Of Teachers Without Formal Qualifications 
  • cbp was quick to disagree with Louis  who said quality of teaching doesn't matter; only licenses do.
  • Chris Davis says that although he has an MEd and has homeschooled his three kids, been the principal of a school, and lecturer, he doesn't have a teaching license. 
  • teach 2010 says that there are many credentialed teachers who can't actually teach.
  • Hellei has been teaching in international schools since 2000 and doesn't have a license. While it's hard to get a job, she shows that it's not impossible. 
  • DB says that a piece of paper doesn't mean you can teach. There are many licensed teachers who are unqualified. 
  • Between cultures says that she was raised abroad, but is a non-Japanese speaking Japanese citizen and because of that can't get a Japanese teaching license and can't get a US one because she's not American. 
  • Agunshka says that some teachers can be good without a cert and that it's hard for overseas teachers to keep their qualifications current. In addition, some certified teachers get to the top not because they're good teachers but because they're good at politics. 
  • Jill has over 25 years experience and has successfully taught at international schools without being a licensed teacher. 
  • Lostone says that you should judge people on what they can bring to a school not by which paper they have. 
  • D says that licensed proved nothing other than the fact that you can jump through the necessary hoops to get one. 
  • grm says that you have to promote quality education, not bits of paper.
  • Soumaya is a school principal and has hired certified and non-certified teachers.
  • Indigo Blue says that having real life experience has helped her teach and her students are happy to learn useful info. 
  • Chris states that although he isn't certified, there's a ton of useless info that students are learning in school and that is being taught by certified teachers. 
  • Molson went back to school to become a licensed teacher and said he knew about 90% of the info they taught them and was a waste of time. 
  • Duras says that he say people switch their majors to teaching because it was the easier thing to do. He also saw qualified teachers stop teaching becuase it was too hard, they had too little vacation, were bored, etc. He also says there are too many programmes out there trying to get teachers. 
  • Anonymous says that being a good teacher is innate.
  • Anonymous makes a good point by saying he would hire a person who has 10 years teaching experience with no certificate before a first year certified teacher. If a non certified teacher has managed to work hard for ten years, get hired by schools, make a difference in the classroom, and build a portfolio then why not? There are many exceptions to the rule, life is not one way.

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