Singapore, a vibrant city-state in Southeast Asia, is a popular destination for international teachers. With its high standard of living, multicultural society, and excellent education system, it’s no surprise that many teachers from the International Qualifications Teacher Status (IQTS) are keen to explore opportunities in this dynamic city. If you’re an IQTS teacher considering a move abroad, here are five options to consider.
1. International Schools
What are International Schools?
International schools are institutions that cater to the educational needs of expatriate students. They follow an international curriculum, often the International Baccalaureate (IB), which is recognised worldwide. These schools are known for their high academic standards and diverse student body.
Teaching in International Schools
As an IQTS teacher, you’ll be well-equipped to teach in an international school. Your international qualification will be highly valued, and you’ll have the opportunity to teach students from all over the world. The working environment is typically professional, with a strong emphasis on continuous professional development.
Moreover, international schools in Singapore offer competitive salaries and benefits, including housing allowances and relocation assistance. However, the competition for positions can be fierce, so it’s important to have a strong CV and teaching portfolio.
2. Private Tuition Centres
What are Private Tuition Centres?
Private tuition centres are educational institutions that provide supplementary education. They are popular in Singapore due to the competitive nature of the education system. These centres offer classes in a variety of subjects, from languages to mathematics and science.
Teaching in Private Tuition Centres
Teaching in a private tuition centre can be a rewarding experience. You’ll have the chance to work closely with students and make a significant impact on their academic performance. The hours can be flexible, making it a good option for teachers who prefer a less structured work schedule.
However, it’s worth noting that the pay can vary widely depending on the centre and the subject you’re teaching. Some centres may also require you to work on weekends, as this is when most students attend classes.
3. Language Schools
What are Language Schools?
Language schools are institutions that specialise in teaching languages. In Singapore, there’s a high demand for English language learning, making it an excellent option for IQTS teachers who specialise in English as a Second Language (ESL).
Teaching in Language Schools
Teaching in a language school can be a rewarding and enriching experience. You’ll have the opportunity to help students improve their language skills, which can open up new opportunities for them. The work environment is typically relaxed and friendly, with smaller class sizes than in mainstream schools.
However, the pay can be lower than in international schools or private tuition centres. You may also need to work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, as many students attend classes outside of regular school hours.
4. Corporate Training
What is Corporate Training?
Corporate training involves teaching skills and knowledge to employees in a business setting. This could involve language training, soft skills development, or industry-specific training. It’s a growing field in Singapore, with many businesses investing in upskilling their employees.
Teaching in Corporate Training
As a corporate trainer, you’ll have the opportunity to work with adults and contribute to their professional development. The work can be challenging but rewarding, with the chance to make a real impact on a company’s performance. The pay is typically good, and the hours can be more regular than in other teaching roles.
However, you’ll need to be comfortable working in a corporate environment and dealing with business professionals. You may also need to have specific industry knowledge, depending on the type of training you’re providing.
5. Online Teaching
What is Online Teaching?
Online teaching involves delivering lessons via the internet. This can be done through live video conferencing or pre-recorded lessons. It’s a flexible option that allows you to work from anywhere, making it a popular choice for teachers who want to travel or live abroad.
Teaching Online
As an online teacher, you’ll have the freedom to set your own schedule and work from the comfort of your own home. You can teach students from all over the world, giving you a truly international teaching experience. The pay can vary, but it’s often competitive, especially for teachers with specialised skills or qualifications.
However, online teaching can also be isolating, and you’ll need to be comfortable working independently. You’ll also need a reliable internet connection and a quiet, professional-looking workspace.
In conclusion, teaching abroad for an IQTS International Teacher in Singapore offers a wealth of opportunities. Whether you prefer the structure of an international school, the flexibility of a tuition centre, the specialisation of a language school, the challenge of corporate training, or the freedom of online teaching, there’s an option to suit every teacher. So why not take the leap and start your international teaching journey in Singapore?
Advance Your International Teaching Career with iQTS at UWE
Ready to elevate your teaching career and stand out in the competitive Singapore education landscape? The International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) programme at UWE is your gateway to achieving recognition and success in international schools. With our Level 7 qualification, you can overcome the barriers of strict qualification requirements, enjoy a 45% increase in promotion rates, a 30% salary boost, and become part of a thriving professional community. Don’t let isolation or a lack of understanding of global education systems hold you back. Join the iQTS programme and become 65% more adaptable to international curricula, all while balancing your professional development with your current commitments. Make Your Next Step towards a fulfilling international teaching career in Singapore with iQTS at UWE.