Placements in more than 40 developing countries, most for two years, but some one-year placements. Education managers programme for heads and senior teachers. Travel, accommodation and insurance provided, as well as extensive training and support. Salary at local rates, with extra money payable on return. All posts advertised online: www.vso.org.uk; 020 780 7200.

* Global Teachers. Five-week placements in Ghana, Uganda or South Africa, largely during summer holidays, though some autumn term placements. With training and follow-up work back at school, it’s a 15-month programme. Link Community Development: www.lcd.org.ukukgtp; 020 7691 1818; global teachers@lcd.org.uk. Each placement costs pound;6,500, of which the school or teacher must find pound;1,000. For teachers in Scotland grants may be available from the Educational Institute of Scotland (www.eis.org.uk; 0131 225 6244). Closing date for 2005 applications is January 21.

* Other companies can also arrange placements overseas, for a fee, from just a few weeks to a full year.

www.teaching-abroad.co.uk; www.travellersworldwide.com.