Korean Job Discussion Forums

[madowlspeaks]

Does anyone know anything about working at international schools in Korea? Are they hard to get into?

Maybe this topic has been around but I couldn't find it.

[swinewho]

Doing what?

Although you dont (legally) need to have teaching certs for *most* international schools (anywhere in the world) - most school, esp the good one's prefer them.......

Most 'good schools' prefer 2-3 years teaching experience in your own country ie - you would need to be qualified....

Experience in curr development/leadership experience ect ect......

Also, most smaller international school prefer it if you have had experience at teaching a second subject ie maths AND Science.....

+ what 'special' extra curricular activities you could provide/ would you be prepared to 'live in' at school for the boarders....

[madowlspeaks]

Thanks! I've got preliminary certification but no experience because of no jobs.


Well, looks like I will try to apply. Also, wondering others' experiences or if any teachers have their own kids in an international school

[smurfetta]

It's possible to get work without experience in your own country as long as you have your certification (which it sounds like you do). Try applying to low tier to mid tier international schools. If your subject area is in high demand (like science and math) then I'm sure you will get offers. Once you've done your time at a lower tier school then you should be able to move on to a better school. Don't limit yourself to Korea. Try looking for jobs elsewhere to get your foot in the door. Google these websites for more info:

Search associates
Tieonline
International schools review
Tes.co.uk (more for British teachers but still useful)
Joyjobs

Good luck with your job search!

[warmachinenkorea]

[rowdie3]

I work at an international school.
You can get in if you have full teacher certification.

The best way to find a job at one of these schools is to apply directly, find it online (www.tes.co.uk for examples), or go to a job fair (such as Search Associates).

Hiring season for September is pretty much done, but you never know what will turn up last minute.

You need at least three years teaching post certification generally. This depends on the school. The better the school the more experiece they will want.

Hope that helps.

[madowlspeaks]

Thanks everyone.

[madowlspeaks]

[smurfetta]

I've seen international schools advertise for ESL (or some other variation of this name) teachers but you definitely be more competitive if you had another teachable. Is it possible for you to get certified in science, math or IT instead of English lit, social studies, or humanities? The former subjects would definitely give you more of an edge.

Anyway, the most important thing is to have up-to-date certification and willingness to be open to work in other countries besides Korea. I'm not saying that you won't find anything in Korea but you may have to do your time elsewhere first. Ideally, you should consider working in the states first for a couple of years and then go overseas.

[madowlspeaks]

[smurfetta]

Where are you now? Are you in Korea or in the states? I've had friends luck out getting into international schools because they were able to immediately take up the position and were in country. If you are in Korea, start visiting/calling some international schools. Try to get on their supply list. You might luck out and get to fill in for a maternity leave etc...

Also, I seem to remember that you are married to a Korean. So you should mention in your cover letter that you have a F2/F5 or whatever it is called now. That's a big selling point because the school will not have to worry about helping you to get a visa.

You mentioned that you were interested in finding out information about having your children attend the same international school that you in the future may work at. Check out the forum on international schools review website. There are lots of posts on that topic there

[byrddogs]

Unless you are dead set on Korea right now, then think about what smurfetta said about other countries. China has way more opportunities for international school teaching. These are the most desirable positions, but you seem to have the qualifications to get in. That could give you a leg up on other other applicants when getting back to Korea in an international school. Good luck!

[ttompatz]

[iggyb]

I've heard the job fairs are the best way to go. They have some in Atlanta not too far from where I live.

Job fairs as a regular teacher in the state are a waste of time mostly. They happen too early for schools to know their needs and few are really hiring.

But, I heard in these international job fairs, schools are highly competitive. They know what they need, and if they interview someone they like, they try to sign them immediately without letting them leave the booth in fear of them being scoopted up by another school.

If I can talk my wife into it when I get back home, I might try this route.

I've noticed some schools use online recruiters, but I don't know much about that.

[madowlspeaks]