Are you looking to give your CV a significant boost? Have you considered teaching abroad? Singapore, in particular, is a fantastic destination for educators looking to broaden their horizons and enhance their career prospects. This article will provide you with six essential tips to make the most of your teaching experience in Singapore.
Understanding the Singapore Education System
Before you pack your bags and jet off to the Lion City, it’s crucial to understand the Singapore education system. Known for its rigorous academic standards, Singapore’s education system is one of the most highly regarded in the world. It’s a system that values discipline, respect, and a strong work ethic.
The system is divided into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, similar to the UK. However, Singapore places a strong emphasis on bilingual education, with English as the medium of instruction and a second language taught as a compulsory subject.
Primary and Secondary Education
Primary education in Singapore lasts six years and is compulsory. It is followed by secondary education, which is divided into two stages: lower secondary and upper secondary. Lower secondary lasts for two years, while upper secondary lasts for three or four years, depending on the track the student is on.
Secondary education culminates in the Singapore-Cambridge GCE ‘O’ Level examination, similar to GCSEs in the UK. The results of this examination determine the student’s progression to pre-university or vocational education.
Tertiary Education
Tertiary education in Singapore is diverse, offering a range of academic and vocational programmes. There are six national universities, five polytechnics, and an Institute of Technical Education (ITE) that offers vocational training. The universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, while the polytechnics and ITE offer diplomas and technical certificates.
Understanding the structure and expectations of the Singapore education system will help you adapt your teaching style and expectations, ensuring a smoother transition and a more productive teaching experience.
Securing a Teaching Position in Singapore
Now that you have a basic understanding of the Singapore education system, let’s delve into the process of securing a teaching position. There are several routes to teaching in Singapore, each with its own set of requirements and benefits.
International schools, private tuition centres, and public schools are the main employers of foreign teachers in Singapore. Each has its own unique teaching environment and expectations, so it’s essential to research and choose the one that best fits your teaching style and career goals.
International Schools
International schools in Singapore cater to expatriate students and offer a curriculum that aligns with international standards, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the UK’s National Curriculum. These schools often seek teachers with experience in these curricula and offer competitive salaries and benefits.
To teach in an international school, you’ll typically need a Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field, a teaching qualification such as a PGCE, and at least two years of teaching experience. Some schools may also require a Master’s degree or additional professional development.
Private Tuition Centres
Private tuition centres in Singapore offer supplementary education to students who need extra help or want to excel in their studies. These centres often hire foreign teachers to teach English, Maths, Science, and other subjects. The requirements to teach in a tuition centre are usually less stringent than those for international schools, making them a good option for less experienced teachers.
Typically, you’ll need a Bachelor’s degree and a teaching qualification to teach in a tuition centre. Some centres may also require a TEFL or TESOL certificate if you’re teaching English.
Public Schools
Public schools in Singapore are managed by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and follow the national curriculum. The MOE occasionally hires foreign teachers for its English Language Teaching Abroad Programme (ELTAP), which aims to improve the English language proficiency of Singaporean students.
To teach in a public school, you’ll need a Bachelor’s degree, a teaching qualification, and at least three years of teaching experience. You’ll also need to pass the MOE’s English Language Proficiency Test.
Adapting to Singapore’s Culture and Lifestyle
Living and working in a new country can be a thrilling yet challenging experience. Adapting to Singapore’s culture and lifestyle is an essential part of your teaching abroad journey. Singapore is a multicultural city-state with a rich blend of Eastern and Western influences.
It’s important to respect and understand the local customs and traditions. For instance, punctuality is highly valued in Singapore, and it’s considered rude to be late for appointments or meetings. Also, Singaporeans place a high value on harmony and avoid confrontational behaviour.
Food and Leisure
Singapore is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide array of cuisines from around the world. Hawker centres, which are open-air food courts, are a must-try. They offer a variety of affordable local dishes, such as chicken rice, laksa, and satay.
For leisure, Singapore offers a wealth of attractions, from the stunning Gardens by the Bay to the vibrant nightlife of Clarke Quay. There are also numerous parks, museums, and shopping centres to explore.
Cost of Living
While Singapore offers a high standard of living, it’s also known for its high cost of living. Accommodation, in particular, can be quite expensive. However, teachers often receive a housing allowance or provided accommodation as part of their employment package.
Other living costs, such as groceries, transportation, and dining out, are comparable to major cities in the UK. It’s important to budget carefully and live within your means.
Building Your Network
Building a strong professional network is crucial for your teaching career in Singapore. Networking can open doors to new opportunities, provide professional development, and offer support and advice.
Joining local teaching associations and attending education conferences and seminars are excellent ways to meet other educators and stay updated on the latest educational trends and practices. Social media and online forums can also be useful networking tools.
Continuing Professional Development
Continuing professional development (CPD) is a key aspect of teaching abroad. CPD allows you to keep your teaching skills and knowledge up-to-date, which is particularly important in Singapore’s rapidly evolving education landscape.
Many schools and institutions in Singapore offer CPD opportunities, such as workshops, seminars, and courses. You can also pursue further qualifications or certifications to enhance your CV and increase your employability.
Reflecting on Your Experience
Finally, reflecting on your teaching experience in Singapore is vital for your personal and professional growth. Reflecting allows you to identify your strengths and weaknesses, set new goals, and plan your future career path.
Keep a teaching journal, seek feedback from your colleagues and students, and take time to evaluate your teaching practices and strategies. This will not only improve your teaching skills but also make your experience in Singapore more rewarding and fulfilling.
In conclusion, teaching abroad in Singapore can be a transformative experience that significantly boosts your CV. By understanding the education system, securing a suitable teaching position, adapting to the local culture, building your network, pursuing professional development, and reflecting on your experience, you can make the most of your teaching journey in Singapore.
Elevate Your Teaching Career with IPGCE
Ready to take your teaching credentials to the next level and stand out in the competitive international education arena? IPGCE is your gateway to overcoming the challenges of stringent qualifications, limited career progression, professional isolation, and the need for a deeper understanding of global education systems. Join the UK’s #1 Teacher Training Course, the International Postgraduate Certificate in Education (iPGCE), and experience a transformative boost in your career. With flexible online study options tailored for working educators, you’ll join a thriving global network and unlock new opportunities for advancement. Don’t let inadequate credentials hold you back. Join the iPGCE program today and propel your teaching journey forward.