Making the decision to leave your teaching job in your home country to move abroad is a big step. It is essential to ensure you're well-prepared for your first international teaching experience. 

When applying to international schools, it's important to ask the right questions to make sure you're supported throughout the transition.

Here are the key things to consider and questions to ask when applying to an international school for your first overseas teaching role:

1. Support with Relocation and Housing

One of the biggest concerns when moving internationally is adjusting to a new country, culture, and lifestyle. You’ll want to make sure that the school offers support with your relocation. Ask the following questions:

• Do you provide relocation assistance? If you are relocating from another country most schools offer relocation packages that cover the costs of flights, visa processing, and even the moving of your belongings.
• Is housing provided or subsidised? Many international schools offer either accommodation or a housing allowance to help teachers find a place to live. Ask about what’s available in terms of housing support, especially if you are unfamiliar with the local housing market.
• Is there an expat community or local support network for new teachers? Some schools have a network of teachers who have already relocated and can offer advice or support to newcomers. If you have a family ask where the family friendly communities live so your children can also make friends out of school.

2. Orientation and Onboarding Process

Starting in a new school system can be overwhelming, so it's important that there is an effective orientation program to help you settle in. You want to know what kind of training or support you can expect in your first few weeks and months.

• What type of orientation or induction process do you offer to new teachers? Ask whether there is a structured orientation that includes familiarising you with the school’s culture, curriculum, policies, and local customs. Also, what support is there for family i.e. spouses and children to help them acclimatise.
• Do you provide professional development opportunities? Especially as you are new to the international education system, ongoing professional development can help you grow and feel supported in your role.
• Will I have a mentor or support team? Many schools assign a mentor to new teachers to help guide them through the adjustment period.

3. Classroom and Curriculum Expectations

Teaching in an international school can sometimes be very different from what you're used to. It's essential to understand the school’s expectations in terms of curriculum, classroom management, and teaching methods.

• What curriculum does the school follow? Ask whether the school uses a UK-based curriculum (e.g., the British International curriculum), the International Baccalaureate (IB), a local curriculum, or a blend.
• How are the class sizes and student support? In many international schools, classes may be smaller than in the UK, but understanding the level of student support and any potential language barriers is important. Also ask what kind of in-class support you may receive from teaching/classroom assistants.
• How are students assessed? Find out how students are assessed and whether there are any differences in the approach compared to what you're accustomed to in the UK.

4. Work-Life Balance and Expectations

Moving abroad can sometimes feel like an “all or nothing” commitment, so it’s important to know what kind of balance you can expect between work and personal life.

• What is the typical teaching workload? Ask about the average number of hours you will be expected to work each week, including preparation time, meetings, and extra-curricular activities.
• Are there opportunities for a good work-life balance? Find out if the school encourages teachers to have time for themselves and their families, as maintaining a healthy balance is essential for long-term happiness abroad.
• How does the school support teachers with their personal well-being? Some international schools provide counselling services or support networks to help teachers and families adjust emotionally and mentally to life abroad.

5. Cultural Adjustment and Support

Living and working in a new country means adjusting to a new culture and way of life. The level of support you receive with this transition is crucial for your overall experience.

• Is there support available to help me adjust to the local culture? Some schools offer cultural training or immersion activities to help teachers integrate into their new surroundings.
• Are there social opportunities to meet other teachers and locals? Find out whether there are regular social events, meet-ups, or teacher or expat networks that can help you build a community and feel more at home.
• What language support is available? If you're moving to a country where the primary language isn't English, it's helpful to ask whether language courses or assistance with translation are provided.

6. Healthcare and Insurance

Access to healthcare varies greatly by country, so you’ll want to make sure you're covered before you arrive.

• Do you provide health insurance? Many international schools offer comprehensive private health insurance for teachers and dependants, which can include coverage for medical, dental, and sometimes even vision care.
• How do I access healthcare in the country? It’s important to understand the healthcare system and whether you’ll need to use private healthcare providers or public services.
• What happens if I need medical care during the school year? Ask about the process of receiving medical treatment and whether the school offers support in navigating local healthcare. Is there a doctor, dentist, hospital located close-by?
• Are there any vaccinations recommended? Some countries have higher risks for rabies, Typhoid, and tropical diseases, which you can inoculate against. Ask the school if you need to consider anything before you travel.

7. Financial Support and Taxation

Make sure you’re clear about your salary, benefits, and tax situation so you can plan your finances properly.

• What is the salary and how is it paid? Ask about your base salary and whether any bonuses or additional financial incentives are offered.
• Will I be paid in local currency or my home country’s currency? Find out if the school pays salaries in the local currency, which may be subject to exchange rate fluctuations.
• What taxes will I be responsible for? Tax laws for international teachers can be complex, so it’s important to know whether you will be taxed locally or whether you’ll be required to pay taxes in the UK as well. Will the school provide support with this process? Will you pay tax on benefits i.e. housing allowances etc?
• Are there any tax-free salary benefits? Some international schools offer tax-free salaries or other tax exemptions which can significantly increase your disposable income.

8. Opportunities for Travel and Exploration

One of the best things about teaching internationally is the chance to explore the world. Before you commit, make sure you're clear on the school’s vacation schedule and how easy it will be to travel.

• What holidays and vacation time are available? Ask about the school year schedule and what holiday time you can expect, as well as whether there are opportunities for extended breaks or long weekends.
• How accessible is travel from the school’s location? If you love to travel, find out how easy it will be to explore nearby countries or regions during your time off.

9. Climate and Dressing Appropriately

What to wear for the first day at work can be key to ensuring your are appropriate, comfortable, and also dressed for the right climate. It may be hot and humid outdoors  but when you enter a classroom with aircon you will quickly start to chill. Likewise if you are somewhere cold you may want to pack extra thermals.

• What is the correct attire for the school? Some schools will be relaxed but others will require formal clothing. In some schools there could be cultural reasons requiring certain clothing and footwear be worn. 
• Is there any clothing they advise you to bring with you? Depending on your size, body shape/type, and preference for materials, you may need to bring extra clothes with you. For example in some Asian countries clothes sizes tend to be much smaller/shorter and shoe sizes over size 9UK/11US can be difficult to find. However, you can also have bespoke suits and formal attire tailored much cheaper than the west. Seek advise so you can pack appropriately.

When moving abroad to teach for the first time, it's crucial to ensure that the school you’re considering offers solid support and assistance to help with your relocation, cultural adjustment, and professional development. By asking the right questions about your salary, benefits, housing, curriculum, workload, and cultural support, you can ensure that you’ll be well-prepared for this exciting adventure. Teaching internationally can be incredibly rewarding, and with the right support in place, you -and your family- will have the opportunity to thrive both professionally and personally.