TalesFromABarStool.com – Life Lessons from Overseas Teaching

“The classroom is the world, and every lesson is a story waiting to be told.” For anyone who’s leapt to teach abroad, this hits home. Imagine standing before a room filled with eager faces, their backgrounds as diverse as the landscapes beyond your window. It’s not just the students who learn. Teachers gain invaluable lessons too, shaped by experiences that cross borders.

Teaching overseas isn’t just about sharing facts. It’s about telling stories that connect us, spark inspiration, and lead to meaningful change. It shows how powerful storytelling can be in education. Yet, many teachers still face a common challenge: finding meaningful ways to engage students from different cultural backgrounds while also supporting their personal growth.

In this post, we’ll explore the beautiful connection between storytelling and education. Whether you’re preparing for an overseas adventure or reflecting on your current teaching journey, you’ll get actionable insights from real-life experiences that can help guide your path forward.

The Art of Storytelling and Education in the Classroom

Stories are the heartbeat of human connection. In the classroom, they do more than entertain:

The Art of Storytelling and Education in the Classroom
  • Ignite Curiosity: Engage students’ natural desire to explore.
  • Grow Empathy: Build understanding through diverse perspectives.
  • Anchor Complex Concepts: Relate lessons to real-life narratives.

While storytelling is often associated with language arts, its potential stretches far beyond.

Practical Insight:

  1. Integrate storytelling and education in STEM subjects.
  2. Transform lessons into narratives. For example, a teacher in Japan turned abstract algebra into a detective story, with students solving “mathematical mysteries.”
  3. In science, narrate Marie Curie’s discoveries to turn dry facts into tales of resilience and brilliance.

However, Edutopia offers resources on cross-disciplinary storytelling strategies. This can be helpful for individuals.

Cultural Immersion: Where Stories Become Life Lessons

Living and teaching in a foreign country is an education in itself. Every day presents a new lesson like:

  • Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding diverse backgrounds.
  • Adaptability: Adjusting teaching methods to fit new environments.
  • Perspective: Seeing the world through different lenses.

Real Example: An educator in Morocco struggled with classroom dynamics until she embraced local storytelling traditions, incorporating Moroccan folktales into lessons, and creating genuine connections. Learn more about culturally responsive teaching from Teaching Tolerance.

Have you ever adapted a lesson to fit a different cultural context? How did it change the student experience?

Overcoming Challenges: The Untold Stories

Explore the less glamorous, often hidden struggles faced by teachers abroad, such as language barriers, limited resources, and homesickness. These experiences, though challenging, are powerful growth opportunities.

Overcoming Challenges: The Untold Stories

Gain Practical insight through a real-life example of a teacher in Thailand who creatively used her surroundings as teaching material when textbooks weren’t available. This highlights adaptability as a key lesson.

It shows how introducing local environments can enhance learning outcomes. These experiences, though challenging, are powerful growth opportunities.

Behind picturesque posts lie real stories:

  • Overcoming language barriers
  • Managing limited resources
  • Coping with homesickness
  • These challenges foster growth.

Practical Insight:

  • Use your environment as teaching material.
  • A teacher in rural Thailand taught English without textbooks, turning market trips and festivals into vocabulary lessons.
  • Adaptability enriched her students’ learning and deepened her resilience.

Storytelling as a Tool for Professional Growth

Storytelling is presented as a transformative tool not just for students but also for educators’ personal and professional development. Reflective practices, such as blogging or journaling, help teachers gain deeper insights into their experiences.

A case study of a teacher in South Korea demonstrates how sharing authentic stories can create global connections, contribute to educational discourse, and foster continuous learning.

The focus is on self-reflection, professional development, and global exchange. as a transformative tool not just for students but also for educators’ personal and professional development. The section discusses how reflective practices, such as blogging or journaling, help teachers gain deeper insights into their experiences.

Storytelling and education aren’t confined to the classroom; they’re powerful tools for:

  • Self-Reflection: Gain insights from personal experiences.
  • Professional Development: Share lessons with a broader community.
  • Global Exchange: Connect with educators worldwide.

Real Example: An educator’s blog about teaching in South Korea gained traction for its honest reflections on cultural misunderstandings and growth. Platforms like Medium are excellent for sharing such narratives.

Assessing the Impact of Storytelling in Education

Address the often-overlooked challenge of measuring storytelling’s effectiveness in educational settings. Practical assessment methods like student-created narratives, classroom discussions, and reflective essays can gauge engagement and comprehension.

Assessing the Impact of Storytelling in Education

An example from Brazil showcases how students’ storytelling about scientific concepts can reinforce understanding while revealing their creativity.

The emphasis is on formative assessments and innovative ways to evaluate learning beyond traditional testing. The often-overlooked challenge of measuring storytelling’s effectiveness in educational settings.

While storytelling’s qualitative impact is evident, assessing its effectiveness can be challenging. Teachers can measure engagement through:

  • Student-Created Narratives
  • Classroom Discussions
  • Reflective Essays

Practical Insight:

  • Implement storytelling assessments.
  • A teacher in Brazil had students craft stories based on scientific concepts, reinforcing understanding and revealing creative thinking.
  • Resources on formative assessment techniques can offer further guidance.

Applying Storytelling and Education Lessons from Overseas

Lessons from teaching abroad aren’t confined to international classrooms. While these experiences are rooted in international settings, the competencies developed include adaptability, cultural awareness, and creative problem-solving. These skills can be applied in any educational environment.

Adaptability means adjusting your teaching style to fit different situations. This skill is especially important when you’re immersed in a new culture or educational system.

Applying Storytelling and Education Lessons from Overseas

Cultural awareness involves understanding and valuing different perspectives, which creates a more inclusive and empathetic classroom.

Creative problem-solving is essential for handling challenges like language differences or limited resources, inspiring fresh approaches to teaching.

Together, these skills not only enhance your teaching but also strengthen your relationships, leadership, and overall growth in any setting.

Practical Insight:

  • Incorporate global stories and diverse perspectives into any curriculum to enrich learning environments.
  • Whether in London, Lagos, or Lima, storytelling and education remain powerful tools for connection and growth.

Starting the New Chapters

Teaching overseas is more than a job; it’s a transformative journey, a collection of stories woven from challenges, triumphs, and everyday moments. These stories shape better educators and inspire lifelong learners.

But the story doesn’t end here. Whether you’re an educator seeking fresh inspiration or someone reflecting on your global teaching experiences, there’s always more to learn and share. Visit Tales from a Barstool to discover more inspiring stories from educators worldwide, exchange ideas, and contribute your own narrative.

Reflect and Engage:

  • What story will you tell?
  • How can your experiences inspire others?

Join a community passionate about storytelling and education, where your voice adds value and your experiences inspire fellow educators worldwide.

So, what story will you tell? And more importantly, what lessons will it teach both your students and you?

Balancing Work and Exploration Abroad: Finding the Perfect Harmony

Imagine you wake up in a foreign country, surrounded by the hum of a new city, the scent of fresh street food drifting through the air. Adventure awaits just outside your door, but before you can set foot outside, an email notification pops up. A pressing work deadline demands your attention.

Excitement turns to hesitation as you find yourself caught between two worlds. One pulls you toward exploration and discovery, while the other tethers you to work responsibilities. It’s a familiar struggle for remote workers and expats: How do you fully embrace the richness of living abroad without letting your career suffer?

But here’s the thing. You don’t have to choose between adventure and ambition. With the right strategies, mindset, and tools, you can design a lifestyle where work and travel complement each other seamlessly. Let’s explore how.

The Common Challenges of Balancing Work and Travel

  • For digital nomads, expats, and remote workers, living abroad is an adventure filled with incredible cultural experiences. But let’s be real. It also comes with its own set of challenges:
  • Time Zone Troubles: Scheduling meetings when your colleagues are in different time zones can seriously disrupt your plans.
  • Work-Life Blur – It’s easy to slip into an “always-on” mindset, making it hard to fully enjoy your surroundings.
  • Missed Opportunities – Deadlines often mean skipping once-in-a-lifetime experiences, like a local festival or an impromptu trip.

This internal conflict isn’t new. Researchers at Cambridge University Press have explored how cultural immersion enhances cognitive and social skills, yet many professionals struggle to prioritise this alongside their careers【Cambridge University Press】.

A New Era of Work-Travel Balance

So, how do we embrace both responsibilities and wanderlust? The solution lies in a mix of strategic planning, mindset shifts, and smart resources. With the right approach, you don’t have to choose between work and discovery. You can successfully integrate both into your lifestyle.

Cultural Experiences: The Key to Enriching Your Time Abroad

Travelling isn’t just about visiting landmarks. It’s about immersing yourself in diverse cultures, perspectives, and histories. A packed itinerary filled with surface-level tourism can’t compare to the depth of genuine cultural experiences.

Why Cultural Engagement Matters

Studies from Cambridge University Press highlight that deep cultural engagement fosters critical thinking, adaptability, and even professional growth. Instead of just passing through a city, consider how learning about its art, history, and local traditions can enhance both your personal and work life【Source】.

Simple Ways to Mix Work and Cultural Immersion

  • Work from Local Cafés & Libraries – Experience how different countries approach daily life by working in public spaces.
  • Attend Events & Workshops – Festivals, exhibitions, and scientific discussions offer valuable insights into a region’s identity.
  • Incorporate Local Learning – Take a language course, read books by local authors, or explore traditional crafts.
  • Engage with Locals – Join cultural meetups, talk to artisans, and participate in community projects to gain authentic insights.

The beauty of working abroad is that every day presents an opportunity to blend professional duties with personal discovery. By adopting a mindful approach, you can turn travel into a learning journey rather than just a sightseeing trip.

Mastering Time Zones and Work Schedules While Travelling

One of the biggest hurdles for remote workers living abroad is navigating multiple time zones. A morning meeting in one country might mean staying up late in another. Without a proper system, your work-life balance can quickly fall apart.

Mastering Time Zones and Work Schedules While Travelling

Time Zone Challenges & Smart Scheduling Techniques

Navigating time differences can feel like an endless process of converting hours and rearranging meetings. Here’s how to make it easier:

  • Set a Standard Working Window – Identify a core time block that overlaps with your team’s schedule and stick to it.
  • Use Time Zone Tools – Apps like World Time Buddy and Google Calendar’s time zone feature help visualise different time zones effortlessly【Google Calendar】.
  • Batch Your Meetings – Instead of scattering calls throughout the day, group them into dedicated time slots to maintain productivity.
  • Communicate Expectations – Let your colleagues know when you’re available, and use auto-responders to set boundaries.

Essential Tools for Managing Time & Workloads

A strong digital toolkit is essential for balancing work and exploration abroad. Some must-have apps include:

  • Trello / Notion – For organising tasks and projects.
  • Slack / Microsoft Teams – For real-time communication.
  • Calendly – To schedule meetings without the back-and-forth emails.
  • Clockify – For tracking work hours across time zones.

By using these tools, you can determine a schedule that allows you to be both efficient and flexible while living in different regions.

Workspaces That Inspire: From Cafés to Co-Working Hubs

Where you work significantly impacts your productivity. While working from a hotel room is convenient, it often lacks inspiration and structure. Finding the right workspace can elevate both your focus and creativity.

Choosing the Best Work Environment

Depending on your work style, different options may suit you:

  • Cafés & Libraries – Ideal for a casual setting with background noise. Many cultures have a strong café-working culture, shaped by their cultural history.
  • Co-Working Spaces – Great for networking, stable WiFi, and structured work hours. Look for platforms like WeWork and Regus for reliable options.
  • Public Spaces & Parks – If your work allows, scenic outdoor spaces can provide a refreshing change of pace.

How Cultural History Shapes Workspaces Worldwide

Work environments vary across countries due to historical influences. For instance:

  • Japan – Co-working spaces reflect the nation’s disciplined work ethic.
  • France – Cafés have long been a hub for intellectual discussions and creative work.
  • Nordic Countries – Emphasise minimalism and natural light in workspaces to enhance well-being.

Exploring different workspace cultures not only boosts productivity but also deepens your understanding of global work dynamics.

Maximizing Free Time Without Letting Work Creep In

Travelling while working remotely requires a delicate balance. You want to embrace adventure, but deadlines and responsibilities can make it difficult to disconnect. The key is intentional planning.

Maximizing Free Time Without Letting Work Creep In

Practical Strategies for Managing Work & Exploration

  • Time Blocking for Exploration – Just as you schedule meetings, block out time for cultural activities and sightseeing. Apps like Google Calendar help ensure you don’t overcommit to work【Google Calendar】.
  • Set Non-Negotiable Work Hours – Define clear work hours and communicate them to colleagues.
  • Prioritise High-Impact Tasks – Use the 80/20 rule (Pareto Principle) to focus on tasks that deliver the most results while freeing up more time for explorationHarvard Business Review】.
  • Utilise Asynchronous Workflows – If your company allows, work asynchronously to avoid unnecessary meetings and maintain flexibility.

By adopting these techniques, you can prevent work from creeping into your voyages and make room for meaningful cultural experiences.

The Role of Micro-Adventures: Learning from Polar and Space Exploration

Balancing exploration with work doesn’t mean you need to plan month-long trips. The concept of micro-adventures, short immersive experiences within a region, can help remote workers integrate travel without overwhelming their schedules.

Lessons from Polar Exploration & Space Missions

Explorers in extreme environments must balance efficiency with adaptability, and their principles apply to digital nomads, too:

  • Polar Explorers & Strategic Planning – Just as polar exploration requires careful preparation for survival, remote workers should plan their travels strategically, accounting for work commitments【National Geographic】.
  • Astronauts & Time Management – Space travellers follow structured schedules to optimise productivity while allowing time for research, exercise, and personal reflection【NASA】.
  • Embracing the Unknown – Much like in space exploration, stepping outside your comfort zone fosters personal and professional growth.

Incorporating Learning & Networking into Travel

Rather than treating work and travel as separate, why not integrate professional development into your journeys? Consider:

  • Attending Industry Conferences – Many global cities host scientific, business, and technology events. Check platforms like Eventbrite or Meetup for networking opportunities【Eventbrite】.
  • Taking Local Courses – Enrol in workshops, language classes, or creative programs to expand your skills while experiencing new cultures.
  • Building a Global Network – Engaging with professionals in different countries broadens perspectives and opens career opportunities.

By following these strategies, you can explore new places while staying career-focused, proving that work and adventure don’t have to be at odds.

Maintaining Relationships While Constantly on the Move

Living abroad and travelling frequently can make it difficult to maintain close relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. Yet, staying connected is essential for both emotional well-being and professional networking.

Maintaining Relationships While Constantly on the Move

Digital Solutions for Staying in Touch

  • Video Calls & Messaging Apps – Platforms like Zoom, WhatsApp, and Telegram help maintain regular contact with loved ones.
  • Virtual Co-Working & Social Groups – Websites like Focusmate or Reddit’s digital nomad communities provide support and accountability.
  • Scheduled Check-Ins – Setting up recurring video calls with friends and family helps create a sense of stability.
  • Pen Pal & Postcard Culture – Sending handwritten letters or postcards offers a personal touch in a digital age.

Beyond digital connections, immersing yourself in local cultures can also foster meaningful friendships.

Building Local Connections and a Sense of Home Anywhere

One of the biggest challenges of travelling is feeling like an outsider. However, engaging with local communities can make any city feel like home.

Ways to Connect with Locals

  • Join Language Exchange Meetups – Platforms like Tandem and HelloTalk allow you to meet locals while learning their language.
  • Participate in Cultural Activities – Taking a local cooking course, photography workshop, or art class can lead to genuine friendships.
  • Co-Working Spaces & Professional Events – Meeting other remote workers fosters collaboration and networking【WeWork】.
  • Volunteer Opportunities – Giving back to the local community creates deeper connections and a more fulfilling experience.

By being proactive and open-minded, you can build a global support network that makes travelling more meaningful.

Handling Unexpected Travel Challenges

While working abroad offers freedom, it also comes with uncertainties such as unstable internet, last-minute schedule changes, or work emergencies. Being prepared helps mitigate stress and ensures a smooth journey.

Common Travel Challenges & Solutions

ChallengeSolution
Unreliable WiFiUse a portable hotspot (e.g., Skyroam, GlocalMe) or work from co-working spaces【GlocalMe】.
Work Emergencies While TravellingSet up an emergency plan with colleagues, have offline backups, and ensure secure cloud storage.
Time Zone MisalignmentUse Google Calendar’s world clock and schedule messages with tools like BoomerangBoomerang】.
Unpredictable SchedulesAdopt a flexible mindset, keep an emergency fund, and identify alternative workspaces in advance.

Avoiding Burnout While Living Abroad

The freedom of working while travelling can sometimes lead to overworking or over-travelling, causing burnout. Without a sustainable approach, what starts as an exciting journey can quickly become exhausting.

Recognizing the Signs of Burnout

Common burnout symptoms include:

  • Constant Fatigue – Feeling tired even after rest.
  • Loss of Enthusiasm for Work or Travel – No longer enjoying exploration or work tasks.
  • Reduced Productivity – Struggling to focus or complete projects efficiently.
  • Emotional Exhaustion – Feeling detached from work, friends, or cultural experiences.

Strategies to Maintain Balance

  • Slow Travel Approach – Instead of rushing through multiple countries, spend longer periods in each place to establish routines.
  • Mindfulness & Reflection – Practices like meditation, journaling, or nature walks help maintain mental well-being【Mindful】.
  • Scheduled Rest Days – Allocate days specifically for relaxation without work or sightseeing.
  • Exercise & Healthy Eating – Staying physically active and maintaining a balanced diet supports long-term energy levels.

By integrating these practices, you can create a lifestyle that supports both work and travel sustainably.

The Importance of Slow Travel and Creating Sustainable Routines

A new era of remote work is shifting towards slow travel, where professionals spend months in one location instead of constantly moving. This allows for:

  • Stronger Local Connections – Becoming part of a community rather than just passing through.
  • Better Work-Life Integration – A structured schedule prevents last-minute work stresses.
  • Deeper Cultural Understanding – Engaging with a region’s history, traditions, and daily life more meaningfully.

Slow travel aligns with sustainability by reducing travel fatigue, minimising costs, and supporting local economies.

Designing a Lifestyle That Works for You

Work and travel don’t have to compete. They can complement each other when managed well. The key is finding what works for your unique lifestyle.

Designing a Lifestyle That Works for You

Essential Tips for a Balanced Lifestyle

  • Define Your Priorities – Are you more focused on career growth, cultural immersion, or personal exploration? Determine what matters most.
  • Leverage Technology – Use digital tools to automate tasks, stay organised, and manage work efficiently【Zapier】.
  • Create a Flexible Structure – Balance routine with spontaneity to enjoy both work and travel.
  • Stay Open to Change – Adaptability is key to making the most of opportunities in different countries.

By taking a structured yet flexible approach, you can build a lifestyle that blends career success, cultural discovery, and personal fulfilment.

Create a Life Where Work and Travel Thrive Together

Balancing professional responsibilities while exploring the world isn’t just a dream. It’s a reality that countless remote workers and expats are embracing. By setting clear boundaries, leveraging smart time management, and immersing yourself in cultural experiences, you can craft a lifestyle that fuels both career success and personal growth.

Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of Europe, the vibrant markets of Asia, or the remote beauty of the Arctic, every journey offers a chance to learn, connect, and grow. The key is to be intentional. Structure your work around your travels, not the other way around.

Ready to take the next step in designing your ideal work-travel lifestyle? Explore expert insights, resources, and real-world stories at Tales from a Barstool. Your next adventure awaits. Make it one that works for you.

Embarking on a Fulfilling Journey: Steps to Become a Certified Teacher

Are you looking to embark on a career that can truly make a difference in the lives of others? If your answer is yes, teaching may be the right profession for you! Becoming an educator provides amazing opportunities as well as unique challenges – but it’s all incredibly rewarding. While there are no shortcuts when it comes to achieving certification, this blog post will provide guidance and advice from experienced teachers so that you can learn how to successfully gain your credentials and have a fulfilling journey through teaching.

Research available certification programs in your state

If you’re looking to boost your career prospects, considering certification programs in your state is an excellent place to start. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which program is best suited for your needs. However, taking the time to research the various certifications can open up new opportunities and help you stand out in a highly competitive job market. Whether you’re seeking advanced expertise in a particular field or adding a specialisation to your skill set, certification programs provide numerous benefits. From increased earning potential to enhanced professional credibility, investing in certifications can pay dividends in the long run. So, why not explore the many certification programs available in your state and take the first step toward achieving your career goals?

Take a practice test to assess your knowledge and decide if teaching is the right career for you

Assuming the role of an educator is a tremendous responsibility and requires a specific set of skills and qualities. Thus, it’s essential to assess your knowledge and capabilities before taking a giant leap of faith toward this career path. One way to evaluate yourself is by taking a practice test specifically designed for aspiring teachers. Through this assessment, you can gauge your strengths and weaknesses, which can help you decide if teaching is the right path for you. It may seem daunting at first, but taking this practice test is an excellent way to test the waters before venturing into the vast ocean of teaching.

Familiarise yourself with the certification requirements of your chosen program

When selecting a program to study, it’s important to do your research on its certification requirements. This ensures that you are fully aware of the criteria that you need to meet to gain certification once you complete your studies. By familiarising yourself with these requirements ahead of time, you can better understand the skills and knowledge that you need to focus on during your studies. Whether you’re studying to become a nurse, engineer, or accountant, taking the time to learn about certification requirements is a valuable step in your professional development. Not only does it help you work towards a recognised professional status, but it also shows potential employers that you are fully committed to your career and willing to put in the necessary effort to achieve your goals.

Calculate how much it will cost to become certified and what financial aid or scholarships are available to you

Embarking on the journey to becoming certified is an exciting and worthwhile endeavour. However, it’s important to consider the financial aspect before committing to the process. To ensure you’re fully prepared, it’s essential to calculate how much it will cost you to obtain the certification you desire. This includes fees for study materials, exam fees, and any training or courses you may need to complete. Luckily, there are plenty of financial aid and scholarship options available to help ease the burden. It’s worth researching the various options thoroughly to determine what you may be eligible for. With some diligent research and proper planning, you can make your certification dreams a reality.

Consider online or hybrid programs that offer more flexible schedules

Are you looking for a program that allows you to balance work and education? With the rise of online and hybrid programs, you no longer have to sacrifice one for the other. In today’s fast-paced world, flexibility is key and these programs offer just that. You can access your course material at any time and from anywhere, fitting your studies into your busy schedule. Whether you are a working professional or a busy parent, online and hybrid programs offer a convenient option for anyone looking to advance their education without putting their life on hold. Don’t let your schedule hold you back from achieving your goals, explore the possibilities of online and hybrid programs today.

Make sure you have met all prerequisites before enrolling in a program

Before diving into a program, it’s important to make sure that you have met all the prerequisites required. These prerequisites are like stepping stones that pave the way toward your learning journey. Skipping one of them may seem like a minor move, but it can hinder your progress later on. Therefore, take the time to check the prerequisites and fulfill them before enrolling in the program. Not only will it ensure a smooth and uninterrupted learning experience, but it will also equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills needed for successful program completion. Remember, it’s better to be prepared than caught off guard!

Becoming a teacher is a rewarding and challenging job, and with the help of proper research and planning, the process of getting certified doesn’t have to be intimidating. Start by looking into the variety of certification programs that are offered in your state, then take an online practice test to gauge your knowledge. Once you have identified the most suitable program for you, make sure to properly calculate how much it will cost you and check what financial aid or scholarships may be available to offset those costs. Consider if an online or hybrid program may work better for your private schedule rather than solely relying on more traditional options. Finally, double-check that you meet all prerequisites before enrolling as this can go a long way in expediting the process. With dedication and perseverance, many will find that becoming a teacher is within reach.

Tips for Teaching in the UK

If you are a teacher and considering moving to the UK to teach, there are a few things you should consider before making the move. The UK education system is different than the USA, so you must understand how it works before making any decisions. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 tips for teaching in the UK that will help make your transition easier!

Be prepared for a more structured school system.

In the UK, the school system is more complex than the Australian system and much more centralized than the American system. There are four main types of schools in the UK: state schools, independent schools, special needs schools, and faith schools. Each type of school has its own admissions process and curriculum.

Consider the climate – it can be colder and wetter than in the USA!

The climate in the UK can be a shock for those coming from warmer climates. Most of the time the climate in the UK can be rainy and misty, and can even be heavily snowed in the wintertime. The average temperature in the UK is 51 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can feel much colder due to the high humidity. It is also important to note that the UK gets a lot of rain – so make sure you pack your raincoat!

Learn about British culture and customs before you arrive.

There are many differences between British and American cultures, so it is important to learn about them before you make the move. For example, in the UK people drive on the left side of the road and the electrical sockets are different. It is also considered impolite to speak loudly in public, and queuing (standing in line) is a national pastime.

Get familiar with the curriculum and expectations of your students.

The UK curriculum is different than the US curriculum, so you will need to familiarize yourself with it before teaching. In addition, the expectations of British students are different of American students. For example, British students are expected to be independent learners and to think critically about what they are taught.

Familiarize yourself with the teacher grading system and how to give marks out of 100%

The teacher grading system in the UK is different from the US system. Teachers typically give marks out of 100%, and these are then converted into letter grades. The A+ to G grade scale is as follows:

A+= 90-100%

A = 80-89%

B = 70-79%

C = 60-69%

D = 50-59%

E = 40-49%

F= 30-39%

G= 20-29%

To give marks out of 100%, you will need to convert the percentage grades that your students earn on assignments into whole number marks. For example, if a student earns 85% on an assignment, they would earn an A, which is worth 80 marks.

When giving marks out of 100%, it is important to consider the level of difficulty of the assignment and whether the student has met the expectations for the assignment. If you are unsure about how to convert percentage grades into marks, there are many resources available online that can help.

Join social media groups or teacher forums to ask questions and get advice from other teachers in the UK.

There are many teacher groups and forums on social media, such as Facebook and Twitter, where you can ask questions and get advice from other teachers in the UK. These groups can be a great resource when you are first starting, as they can help you to feel more connected to the teaching community in the UK.

Pay Scale – How much do Teachers in the UK get paid

Teacher salaries in the UK are typically paid on a scale of £22,467 to £38,250 per year, as an Australian teacher you would earn around $37,371 a year. However, salaries will vary depending on your experience, location, understanding, and the type of school you teach in. For example, teachers in London typically earn more than teachers in other parts of the UK. Because of the high cost of living in London, many teachers choose to live outside of the city and commute.

What Age Groups should you Teach?

In the UK, you can teach any age group from early years (ages three to five) up to adults. The age group that you teach will depend on the type of school you work in and your qualifications. For example, if you want to teach in a primary school, you will need to be qualified to teach Early Years or Key Stage One (ages five to seven).

What Area of the Country to Teach in

As said before, the salary will vary depending on which area in the UK you teach in. London is the most expensive area to live in, so the salaries are higher. Whereas in other parts of the UK, the cost of living is lower, so the salaries will be too. It depends on your budget and where you want to live. If you are looking to save money, then you could look for teaching jobs in other parts of the UK.

Plan Weekends – Activities, Travel, Adventures!

Although you will be working during the week, you will have weekends free to explore the UK. There are many activities, travel, and adventures to be had in the UK. For example, you could visit historical sites like Stonehenge or Hadrian’s Wall, go hiking in the Scottish Highlands, or explore one of the many charming towns and villages. There is something for everyone in the UK, so make sure to plan your weekends accordingly!

Teaching in the UK can be different from teaching in the USA. Here are some tips to consider when making the transition: get familiar with the school system, curriculum, and expectations of your students; learn about British culture and customs; join teacher social media groups or forums. Good luck!

My Love Affair With Life In Dorset

Living in Dorset for three years has given me an exceptional gift. It’s the gift of life. I am truly blessed that I was given the opportunity to teach at a school there.

I have faced quite a few challenges. One of them is being away from my family and friends. It was so tough. I overcame the challenge through having an affair with my life in Dorset. Being alone made me realize how wonderful life is; the place where I am living is far-fetched from where I was born and lived for the longest time.

This experience has taught me to become at peace with myself and to be able to savor life. Yes, living each day as it passes by. I even became more appreciative of the people whom I always interacted with, and the gift of life that was bestowed upon me.

 

Living The Life In Cornwall

My fascination about life started way back when I was working overseas in Cornwall, UK. I can say that I fell in love with life so to speak. Who would have thought a teaching job can lead to self-awareness? I never did!

Who would not fall in love with Cornwall? The place is filled with sandy beaches, and harbour villages that left me in awe seeing all of them. The lifestyle here was total opposite of what I was used to. Here, I was able to take time; having “me” time was my favorite part. I never thought that a walk on the beach could be breathtaking and mesmerizing at the same time.

The experience has taught me to take time, savor the moment, and to see how my life slowly unfolded right in front of me. I even learned not to worry about the future, and what would happen. It led me to realize I need to accept things as they are. The future will take care of itself.

Plant good seeds. You reap what you sow. If you plant love, compassion, and kindness, you will reap much more in the future. This is what I am reaping years after my life in Cornwall.