A recent tender published by the National College for Teaching and Leadership (NCTL) has revealed how the Government is planning to spend £10 million on hiring 600 foreign teachers.
In what is one of the biggest ever overseas recruitment campaigns, the Department for Education is seeking to address an “acute” shortage of teachers in Maths, Physics, and Modern Languages.
But why should foreign teachers consider pursuing their careers in the UK? And what benefits does the country’s education system afford?
Opportunities and policy
As explained above, one of the main reasons to teach in the UK is because demand currently outstrips supply. As a result, there is a strong chance you will find your dream job straightaway. The Government’s recent recruitment drive also reveals that you will be trained up to qualified teacher status and given English lessons if necessary.
If the Department of Education is willing to spend big on teacher recruitment, it may invest in other areas too. Therefore, you could benefit from rising standards of teaching environments and materials.
Career development
While the same can be said for almost any industry, the fact you have worked and taught abroad is bound to impress any future employer. It means you’ll have experienced a different culture, improved your ability to communicate, built self-confidence, and developed independence.
As opposed to alternative countries, the UK also has easy access to professional development workshops, allowing you to expand your skill set and broaden your horizons. In the end, you’ll end up with a more polished CV.
Ease of integration
The UK is one of the most culturally-diverse countries in the world, where people of all races and religions are welcome to work. No matter what your background is, you’re sure to find it easy settling in and getting used to common conventions.
What’s more, the National Curriculum in England and Wales has many similarities to other English-speaking countries such as the Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. In fact, teachers coming from a Commonwealth country won’t struggle to make the transition.
Location and travel
Even though several foreign teachers will head straight to London, a lot can be said for the rest of the UK’s major cities including Manchester and Glasgow. Such diversity means you’ll be able to find a place that suits your tastes, which you can then call home.
When you’re not teaching, the whole of Europe is on your doorstep, ready and waiting for many a weekend of exploration. From the sun-soaked islands of Greece to the picturesque landscapes of Scandinavia, there is something for every tourist.
Lifestyle and entertainment
With a long and esteemed history, a rich heritage of arts and culture, along with world-class music, food, fashion, and sport, the UK is an incredibly enjoyable place to live and work.
Most of this entertainment may well take place inside the city, but the UK’s rural locations are just as enthralling. Take for example the dramatic Lake District mountains or the stunning coastlines of Cornwall.