Teaching English Overseas: 4 Tips Before Signing The Contract

I can still remember the over-mounting enthusiasm I felt when my recruiter suddenly mentioned over the phone, “You’ve got the job. How soon can you come?” I had just landed my first teaching assignment overseas in South Korea, mere days after completing my final university course. At the time, with enough probing, I had found exactly what I wanted in terms of working and living conditions.

I had a strong desire to live in Seoul, have my own apartment & not work on the weekends. I was over the moon having landed these working conditions when I had been told – by several other recruiters – that a university graduate with no teaching experience would have a toilsome time finding such an assignment.

Everything I had been told by the recruiter made the job sound like it was paved with gold; however, the reality of my first teaching assignment was far from ideal. I was given substandard housing and cheated on my health insurance, taxes and pension plan.

These are four tips that I recommend to other prospective teachers to avoid potential problems related to contract, housing and working conditions.

1) Don’t believe what your recruiter tells you

A recruiter is often the ‘bridge’ that connects foreign teachers with job placements overseas. Rarely do schools actively seek teachers on their own and instead hand over the process to a recruiter. The recruiter often tells the prospective teachers that he/she is working for them; however, the reality is that the school ends up paying the recruiter for the services of bringing in new teachers.

The incentive for a recruiter to tell you anything & everything you want to hear in order for you to sign your life away (for a one year contract) is exactly what they are going to do – if they’re good at their job. Thus, any kind of concerns one has over their working and living condition needs to be confirmed by a current or former teacher, at that specific academy, via correspondence over the phone or by email.

2)  Confirm your living conditions with photographs

Housing conditions for a first year teacher are a major factor that can make or break the experience depending on whether basic necessities are provided. For my first teaching assignment, I was told I would have my own studio apartment. What I didn’t realize, at the time, was that my unit would be a temporary housing structure on top of a roof! At the best of times, I considered it to be an artist’s loft; at the worst of times, I was baring the elements of a bitterly cold winter and stifling summer.

This could have easily been avoided had I requested to see several photos of my apartment before I signed the contract. In future years, I’ve ‘forced’ every school I worked for to take several pictures of my apartment – and sent them to me by email – before I would agree to sign anything.

View from the rooftop of my apartment in Seoul, South Korea while teaching English.

3)  Don’t settle of anything less than what is stated in your contract

Working hours, vacation period, salary, health insurance and taxes are all things that should be clearly outlined in your contract. Unfortunately, many schools do not follow what is in the fine print and often try to circumvent certain guaranteed conditions. The best approach to dealing with this kind of situation is to be extremely firm regarding everything promised within your contract.

If the school tries to play hardball it’s best to be prepared to walk away. Often, you will call their bluff and in the odd case that a school is unprepared to offer you proper working conditions can end up being fatal There was an incident in Seoul where a young American man died from injuries he sustained in a house fire.

The school he was working for had not provided him with any form of health insurance and he ended up perishing in the hospital.

4)  Have a back-up plan

Finally, have a back-up plan in place in case things don’t work out with your current teaching position. Firstly, scan all of your relevant documents such as your passport, sealed transcripts, cover letter, reference letters, teaching certificates and resume. Secondly, have all of these handy in hard-copy format. Thirdly, don’t go overseas with a completely depleted bank account.

If you’ve followed these three steps you potentially have a lot more options to consider if you’re unhappy with your current situation. If you do decide to terminate a contract early you may have to leave your host country whereas in other cases you’re allowed to simply change employers.

Regardless, having some savings and copies of your pertinent documents allows for flexibility and the opportunity to switch jobs locally or move to a neighboring country to resume teaching if things suddenly become sour. Finally, with enough savings you can always decide to pack everything up and head home on a red-eye flight.

What To Know Before You Teach Overseas

Teaching overseas can be a thrilling and fulfilling experience, but it can also be daunting and challenging. It’s important to take the necessary steps to prepare yourself before embarking on this adventure.

One of the first things to consider is the country and culture where you’ll be teaching. It’s essential to research the customs, traditions, and cultural differences to ensure that you’re respectful of the culture and that you don’t unintentionally offend anyone. Learning some basic language skills can also be helpful, both in the classroom and in your everyday interactions with locals.

Next, you’ll need to understand the visa requirements for your chosen destination. Every country has different requirements for visas and work permits, and it’s crucial to make sure you have all the necessary documents and approvals before you depart. It’s best to start the visa process early, as it can be time-consuming and may require additional documentation.

It’s also important to be aware of your legal rights and responsibilities as a foreign teacher. Familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations regarding teaching and employment, as well as your contractual obligations to your employer. Knowing your rights and responsibilities can help you avoid any potential legal issues.

Your qualifications are also essential to consider. Many countries have specific requirements for foreign teachers, such as a certain level of education or teaching experience. Make sure you have the necessary qualifications and documentation to support them.

The job market in your destination country is also an important factor to consider. Teaching opportunities vary from country to country, and it’s essential to research the demand for teachers and the types of teaching jobs that are available. This will help you tailor your job search to your qualifications and experience.

The cost of living is another crucial factor to consider. Research the cost of housing, food, transportation, and other essentials to ensure that your salary will cover your expenses. It’s also important to consider the exchange rate and any additional expenses, such as travel and health insurance.

Finally, be prepared for culture shock. Living in a foreign country can be challenging and overwhelming at times, and it’s essential to take steps to ease the transition. This can include joining expat groups, connecting with other teachers, and taking time to explore your new surroundings.

Teaching overseas can be an incredibly rewarding and transformative experience, but it’s crucial to be prepared and informed before you make the move. With these considerations in mind, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges and make the most of your overseas teaching experience.

What To Know Before You Teach Overseas

Teaching overseas can be a unique and exciting experience, but it can also be a challenging one. To have a great year teaching abroad, it’s important to have the right mindset and to take some steps to prepare yourself.

One essential tip for having a great year teaching overseas is to embrace the culture. Being open-minded and curious about the culture of your host country can help you make the most of your experience. You can take the time to learn about local customs, traditions, and beliefs, as well as show an interest in your students and colleagues’ backgrounds. Being respectful can go a long way in building positive relationships with those around you.

Another crucial factor in having a successful year teaching overseas is to build relationships. As an expat, it can be easy to feel isolated or disconnected from your home country. Joining clubs or attending community events can help you build relationships with locals and other expats. Participating in cultural activities can help you integrate better into the local community, and it can also lead to new opportunities and experiences.

Staying organized is also essential when teaching overseas. The workload can be challenging, and managing your time effectively can help you stay on top of things. Keeping a schedule, making to-do lists, and prioritizing tasks can help you manage your time and reduce stress. Staying organized can also help you avoid procrastination and be more productive.

Staying in touch with friends and family is another important factor for having a great year teaching overseas. Staying connected with loved ones back home can help you feel less homesick and isolated. Using technology to stay in touch, such as video calls or messaging apps, can be a great way to keep in contact with those you care about. Additionally, joining expat groups or connecting with other teachers can help you build a support system in your new environment.

Taking advantage of your time overseas to travel is another way to have a great year teaching abroad. Traveling can be a great way to learn more about your host country and the surrounding areas. It can also be a great way to take a break from the stresses of teaching and relax. Planning trips and exploring new places can help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Being flexible is also an essential aspect of having a great year teaching overseas. Teaching overseas can be unpredictable, and it’s important to be adaptable to change. Being open to new experiences and challenges can help you make the most of your time abroad. Being willing to adjust your plans as needed can help you navigate unexpected situations.

Lastly, taking care of yourself is essential to having a successful year teaching overseas. Teaching overseas can be demanding, both physically and emotionally. Getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly can help you maintain your physical health. Making time for hobbies and activities that you enjoy can help you maintain your mental health. Additionally, seeking support when needed can help you overcome any challenges you may face.

Teaching overseas can be a rewarding and unique experience, but it requires preparation and a positive attitude. Embracing the culture, building relationships, staying organized, staying in touch with loved ones, traveling, being flexible, and taking care of yourself are all essential tips for having a great year teaching abroad.

Where To Travel After Your Teaching Contract Ends

Teaching English overseas offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a new culture, gain valuable teaching experience, and explore the world. And when the contract ends, the adventures don’t have to end there. With so many destinations to choose from, the possibilities are endless.

For those looking for a taste of the exotic, Southeast Asia beckons with its lush landscapes, welcoming locals, and mouth-watering cuisine. From exploring ancient temples to lounging on pristine beaches, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia offer an array of experiences to satisfy any traveler’s wanderlust. And with a relatively low cost of living, these countries are perfect for budget-conscious adventurers.

For those who have fallen in love with East Asian culture, South Korea is the perfect destination. After the contract ends, explore national parks, bustling cities, and the iconic Korean nightlife. And if you’re looking for something a bit more exotic, Japan offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern flair. From soaking in hot springs to savoring mouth-watering sushi, Japan offers an unforgettable experience that is well worth the cost.

For those seeking a European adventure, the continent offers a wealth of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the quaint streets of Paris to the majestic Swiss Alps, Europe has something for everyone. While more expensive than other destinations, Europe’s charm and sophistication are worth the extra expense.

And for those seeking a bit of adventure, South America offers an array of possibilities. From hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu to exploring the Amazon rainforest, South America is a destination that promises to awe and inspire.

When planning post-contract travels, it’s important to consider budget, travel preferences, and visa requirements. With careful planning and research, any traveler can continue their adventure after their teaching contract ends. The world is waiting – it’s time to explore.