Have you ever considered teaching abroad? If you’re a qualified teacher with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), Malaysia could be the golden ticket to a lucrative career. With a booming education sector and a high demand for qualified teachers, you could be earning a six-figure salary in no time. But how do you go about it? Let’s delve into the details.
Understanding the Malaysian Education System
Before you pack your bags and book your flight, it’s essential to understand the Malaysian education system. Like the UK, Malaysia follows a 6-3-3-2 education system, which means six years of primary education, three years of lower secondary, three years of upper secondary, and two years of pre-university studies.
English is widely spoken and taught in schools, making it an attractive destination for English-speaking teachers. However, the education system is undergoing a transformation to improve the quality of education and meet international standards. This transformation opens up numerous opportunities for teachers with a PGCE.
The Role of a PGCE Qualified Teacher
As a PGCE qualified teacher, you’ll be expected to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom. Your role will not only involve teaching but also developing curriculum, implementing innovative teaching methods, and contributing to the overall improvement of the education system.
Furthermore, you’ll be expected to adapt to a different cultural environment, which can be both challenging and rewarding. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the rich Malaysian culture, traditions, and lifestyle while imparting education to the students.
How to Land a Teaching Job in Malaysia
Now that you have a fair idea of what to expect, let’s look at how you can land a teaching job in Malaysia. The process is straightforward, but it requires careful planning and preparation.
Firstly, you need to have a valid teaching qualification, such as a PGCE. Most international schools in Malaysia prefer candidates with a PGCE or an equivalent qualification. Additionally, having a few years of teaching experience under your belt can give you an edge over other candidates.
Job Hunting
Start your job hunt by researching international schools in Malaysia. Websites like TES and International School Services list job vacancies for international schools worldwide, including Malaysia. You can also reach out to recruitment agencies that specialise in international education.
Once you’ve found a job that interests you, prepare your CV and cover letter. Highlight your qualifications, teaching experience, and any other skills that make you a suitable candidate. Remember, your CV and cover letter are your first impressions, so make them count.
Interview Process
After submitting your application, you’ll go through an interview process. This could be a face-to-face interview if you’re in Malaysia, or a video call if you’re abroad. Prepare for the interview by researching the school, understanding their values and teaching methods, and preparing answers to common interview questions.
Once you’ve cleared the interview, you’ll be offered a contract. Review the contract carefully before signing. It should include details about your salary, working hours, holidays, and other benefits.
Expect a Six-Figure Salary
Now, let’s talk about the exciting part – the salary. As a PGCE qualified teacher in Malaysia, you can expect a six-figure salary. The exact amount can vary depending on the school, your qualifications, and your experience.
On average, a teacher in Malaysia earns around MYR 6,000 to MYR 15,000 per month. That’s roughly £1,100 to £2,800 per month. Over a year, that adds up to a six-figure salary in Malaysian Ringgit.
Additional Benefits
But that’s not all. Most international schools in Malaysia offer additional benefits such as housing allowance, health insurance, and flight reimbursement. Some schools even provide tuition fee discounts for your children if they attend the same school.
With these benefits, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in Malaysia. The cost of living in Malaysia is relatively low compared to the UK, which means your salary will go a lot further.
Conclusion
Teaching in Malaysia can be a rewarding and lucrative career for PGCE qualified teachers. With a booming education sector, a high demand for qualified teachers, and a six-figure salary, it’s an opportunity worth considering.
So, if you’re ready for a new adventure, why not give Malaysia a try? You might just find your dream job and a new home away from home.
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