Standing at the crossroads of Grade 11 or matric, the question “What’s next?” can feel overwhelming. With countless career paths and study options ahead, making informed decisions has never been more crucial. The article below is aimed at giving some sound advice on dealing with matric exams and is sourced from Novus Media’s Beyond Matric: Navigating Your Future career guide. This essential guide explores diverse careers—from mechatronics and media communications to teaching and yachting—while tackling practical realities like securing bursaries, choosing between universities and TVET colleges, and developing ICT skills. Complete with podcast links covering 4th Industrial Revolution careers and Gen Z trends, this guide transforms uncertainty into confidence.
From tax-free benefits in the Middle East to permanent residency pathways in Australia, overseas teaching positions are attracting record numbers of South African educators seeking professional advancement and life-changing experiences.
In an exclusive interview, Irene Toerien, Chief Operations Manager at SA-Recruitment – a London-based education recruitment agency – shares essential insights for teachers considering international careers.
The Reality of Teaching Abroad
“Teaching abroad presents an incredible opportunity, but it requires patience, organisation, and significant upfront investment,” explains Toerien.
“This isn’t something that materialises overnight. It’s a comprehensive journey requiring proactive planning and constant communication with your recruitment agency.”
Growing Demand for International Positions
The trend toward international teaching continues to accelerate. “Absolutely, the numbers increase almost annually,” confirms Toerien when asked about rising interest in overseas opportunities.
Why teachers are looking abroad:
- Australia: Pathway to citizenship, stability, and excellent family opportunities
- Middle East: Tax-free salaries, complimentary flights and accommodation, plus invaluable international experience
“The Middle East serves as a fantastic stepping stone for those ultimately aiming to relocate to Australia,” notes Toerien. “Many educators begin their international careers there, gain valuable experience, save substantially, then transition to Australia for longer-term settlement.”
Essential Requirements and Preparation
Critical alignment requirement: Your degree and post-qualification experience must match exactly. “If your qualification is in Foundation Phase, your post-qualification experience must also be in Foundation Phase,” emphasises Toerien. “International schools maintain strict requirements regarding this correlation.”
Early documentation: Apply for South African Council for Educators (SACE) registration and SAQA letters as early as possible – these require considerable processing time.
Do’s and Don’ts for International Teaching Applications
Essential Do’s:
- Ensure genuine readiness for this significant life change
- Develop the appropriate mindset and prepare financially
- Conduct thorough independent research
- Clarify resignation terms in South Africa
- Maintain consistent communication with your agency
- Be fully prepared before approaching recruitment agencies
Critical Don’ts:
- Leave document preparation until the last moment
- Delay registering with reputable recruitment agencies
- Apply for vacancies impulsively without proper preparation
Financial Planning by Destination
Middle East Positions
- Covered by schools: Flights, visas, and accommodation
- Teacher expenses: Document authentication (£200 – £550) and initial living expenses before first salary
Australian Positions
- Teacher covers all upfront costs: IELTS Academic test (~£380), AITSL skills assessment (~£900), medical and police checks (£40-£200) and flights and accommodation
Available Opportunities
Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain)
- Recruitment timeline: August/September start; hiring begins January
- High-demand subjects: Foundation Phase/Early Years, Elementary/Primary, Middle and High School (English, Science, Mathematics), Specialist (PE, Music, Art)
- Requirements: 2-3 years classroom experience, clean police clearance and verified qualifications
Australia
- Academic year: January start
- High-demand subjects: High School (English), Foundation Phase, Middle School (English), Specialist subjects (High School Art, IT, Mathematics)
- Requirements: IELTS Academic (Reading/Writing: 7.0, Speaking/Listening: 8.0), Practicum teaching letter detailing hours and phases; ideally three years classroom experience and AITSL skills assessment for permanent
The Value of Professional Support
“Navigating international school applications, contracts, and visa requirements can prove extremely complex,” states Toerien.
“A reputable recruitment agency helps teachers avoid potential pitfalls whilst ensuring they’re matched with roles suited to their qualifications and experience.”
SA-Recruitment, specialising in placing South African teachers abroad for decades, charges teachers no fees for their services. “Over the years, we’ve received countless testimonials from teachers who’ve successfully built international careers through our support,” adds Toerien.
Getting Started – Application Process
- Research thoroughly: Visit SA-Recruitment’s website blog section for practical articles and first-hand advice
- Monitor opportunities: Follow social media platforms for vacancy updates
- Apply directly:
- Middle East positions: [email protected]
- Australia positions: [email protected]
“Our support continues throughout the entire journey, from initial application right through to successful integration at your new school,” concludes Toerien.
For more information about international teaching opportunities, visit SA-Recruitment‘s website or contact their team directly
