Picture the scene: I secured my first international job and excitedly called my grandmother.
“Thailand?” she said. “That’s where Leonardo Dicaprio did that film.
“But isn’t it only known for ladyboy shows and young peoples’ full moon parties? Are you sure that’s good for your teaching career?”
Trying to ignore the niggling feeling that my gran no longer considered me a “young person”, I knew that assumptions about Thailand were not unique to my gran.
So, for the benefit of everyone whose knowledge of South East Asia begins and ends with Danny Boyle’s cinematic introduction, let’s explore some misconceptions I’ve come across regarding teaching in SE Asia.
1. Teaching in SE Asia is one long beach holiday
Spectacular views over Bagan from a hot air balloon? Check. Brunei’s famed Islamic architecture? Check. Thailand’s fabulous food, ornate temples & famous beaches? Check, check, check.
It’s true, teaching abroad has afforded me experiences I never imagined possible. Yet, the assumption that teaching here is a walk in the park is incorrect.
You may well experience less bureaucracy and a healthier work-life balance, but nevertheless the teaching profession commands respect in SE Asia.
Expect students and parents to have high expectations and be prepared to experience cultural differences that may at times be challenging.
There are some excellent schools all over the region and its popularity as a destination means those schools employ the best teachers possible. With this in mind, take time to prepare your application and hone your online interview technique.
Find tips on applying and interviewing for international jobs
2. SE Asia is all the same, so anywhere will do
SE Asia is a popular teaching destination. I recall being told, “It’s hard to get a job for the uninitiated, so take whatever you can.”
Pair this with an impending resignation deadline and you may start to feel the pressure to take the first job that comes along. But it pays to pause, otherwise you may come to regret it later.
Determine what lifestyle works for you, including the non-negotiables and concessions you are willing to make.
Next, thoroughly research to find schools and locations that fit the bill. For example, if you prefer laid-back city living with access to nature trails consider Penang rather than Kuala Lumpur. If you love the vibrancy of a big city but want the option of domestic travel, Bangkok may be preferable to Singapore.
Consider using a comparison website to gain an idea of living costs and whether the offered financial package will support your intended lifestyle.
3. You won’t be able to get a job in the UK when you return
This is a fear held by new international teachers in any region, but knowing several teachers who have successfully returned this year (and during a pandemic no less), I am inclined to disagree.
If you plan to return, it’s advisable to keep abreast of updates within British education. Engaging in development opportunities such as becoming an examiner for a UK board can facilitate this.
Many international schools require you to make a contract renewal decision early on so they can organise recruitment. This means you may need to resign before securing a new job, which can lead to panic. Emily Lawton advises you don’t act rashly.
“Stay calm and know your worth as a teacher,” she says. “It is easy to panic and apply for jobs you wouldn’t have had you been at home.
“I only applied to schools that matched my vision for education. By being selective I was able to really stand out at interview.”
Karly Evans is a science teacher at Harrow International School Bangkok, Thailand. She tweets @theeduwrd
