5 Things You Should Know Before Teaching English Abroad

03 April 2018 Guest posts

Teaching English abroad is an exciting opportunity. However, knowing a couple of things before you start your journey to your new teaching post is an excellent idea. Here are five things you should know before teaching English abroad.

1. The Expatriate Community

Do you know any expats in the country where you got a teaching job? Do they meet regularly to discuss issues, or to socialize? Where do they live? Why do they prefer such areas as opposed to living in other locations? Did they face any challenges in their host nations? How did they overcome these challenges? Do they have an association? Is there a contact person for this association if it exists? Answers to these questions are critical before you embark on your journey to a new country that has different systems of governance and ways of living. Remember, being part of a community is a way of protecting yourself against any dangers you might face in a foreign country.

2. Visa Regulations and Practices

The requirements for a visa, the application process, and the processing of such documents differ from country to country. That means knowing everything about visa regulations and practices in the country you want to teach is critical. Fortunately, you can get this information from official websites. For example, you can get information on visa regulations and practices from Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs if you want to be an English Tutor Singapore.

3. Expectations and Reality are Different

English is your first language. You also have some training in it in addition to living in a country where many people speak it. The same circumstances do not apply when it comes to students who are learning English as a Second Language (ESL). Remember, they take pride in their national language. This language might also be different from the one they first learned as a child. Be patient with them as they strive to excel in this foreign language. Use simple and appropriate teaching techniques and modify them if necessary so that they cater to the specific needs of your students.

4. Medical Needs and Policy Covers

Foreign countries have different health care systems. Some of them are better than the ones you have in your home country. Others are worse than what your nation has. Taking care of yourself helps you avoid situations where you would need treatment abroad. For example, you can get vaccinations for various diseases before you travel to your host nation. You can also go for expatriate jobs that offer a compelling medical cover with guarantees of the best health-care facilities in the country. Another step you can take is opting for a job as an English tutor Singapore because Singapore has some of the best doctors and hospitals in the world.

5. Your Employer's Reputation

The contract that you signed might have a job description that is different from what your employer wants you to do once you have arrived in the host nation. In some cases, the remuneration terms may change significantly, and in others, the working conditions might be intolerable. Consequently, ascertaining the kind of reputation your employer has before you embark on your journey to a foreign nation is critical. Remember, taking up a job offer from a dubious institution is unwise. Instead, work with reputable firms only.

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Annabelle is part of the Content and Community team at SmileTutor, sharing valuable content to their own community and beyond.