The Easy to Follow Guide To International Schools For Teachers Seeking Overseas Employment #1

Private International Schools

Do not get confused, private international schools are businesses with directors who are intent on making an outstanding return on their investment (profit). There is a considerable amount of money to be made in providing private education in areas where the supply is less than demanded. This is simple Economic theory. However, for the teachers employed by this kind of international school it can be a mixed bag.

Many wealthy parents are demanding English language education for their children, and that has lead to a marked increase in the number of international schools worldwide. This is a particular feature of the Middle East and Asia, where new schools are almost constantly opening for students. The year I was looking for my current position teaching overseas there were a total of 5 new schools starting up in Dubai alone.

The good, the bad and the ugly of teaching overseas at private international schools…

The Good is that there are loads of them. There are a large number of private international schools for teachers to choose from.

The Bad is that while it is possible to balance good educational practice with the desire to make substantial profits, it is unlikely that in a battle between the two that providing a good education for the students will win. Teaching overseas should not involve you being required to ignore or turn your back on your teaching philosophy.

The Ugly is that you know when a school’s continued survival is dependent upon tuition money from the students' parents, how likely do you think it is that an international school will expel students that are negatively affecting the learning of others?

Privately Owned International Schools