Eteach International
Why I Chose Eteach
By Diane Davies
My decision to teach abroad was ultimately out of my hands . Substantial cuts in Welsh further education resulted in my redundancy . With opportunities few and far between in Wales , I ultimately took a teaching position in Malaysia and I ’ ve never looked back .
For a number of years , I taught A Level accounting and other subjects within the local college ’ s business school . All of my training and subsequent teaching experience had been in Wales and the prospect of moving half way across the world was naturally daunting . Given the lack of suitable jobs for me in Wales , I realised I needed to widen my search if I wanted a role that would match my previous one — the only other alternative was to take a reduction in salary and a step backwards in my career .
I went along to an Eteach Live , an event held in Swansea , and had the chance to meet with representatives from Eteach International . They place teachers in overseas schools in destinations all over Europe , Asia and the Middle East . After receiving some much-needed CV writing advice and career guidance , I had the confidence to consider international teaching .
I was introduced to Jonathan Price , currently the Managing Director of Eteach International . Based in Dubai , he was an ex-Headteacher with 16 years ’ experience in the Middle East under his belt . Jonathan explained the challenges and concerns he first experienced as a teacher when he made the move abroad and highlighted some of the incredible opportunities that teaching abroad offers . Jonathan ’ s empathy , having been in that position himself , really helped me to focus on the decision that was right for me .
Jonathan told me about an opportunity with an international school in Kuala Lumpur . The salary was excellent , as was the holiday allowance and extra benefits . I decided to apply and , with their advice and guidance , I managed to secure the role . I haven ’ t looked back since .
Teaching abroad does have its own issues . Although it does take time to adjust to the way things work in a different country , I feel I ’ ve been extremely lucky to meet fantastic people along the way . I feel like I have an entire family over here in Malaysia .
It ’ s definitely one of the best decisions I have ever made and I can proudly say that the experience I gained during my time teaching in Wales helped me achieve my dream job in Malaysia .
Eteach International specialises in helping education professionals find their dream jobs overseas . We encourage them to be proactive in their job search by providing free , immediate access to great jobs , easy-to-use online tools , resources and career advice . We also foster an international community of teachers through social media , blogs and regular newsletters .
For more information , visit eteachinternational . com .
8 | 2016 - 2017 |