Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its high standards of education, is a popular destination for international teachers. However, like any other profession, teaching in Singapore comes with its unique set of challenges. In this blog post, we’ll delve into five common issues faced by international teachers in Singapore, as reported by the International Quality Teaching Standards (IQTS).
1. Cultural Differences
One of the most prominent challenges faced by international teachers is adapting to the cultural differences in Singapore. The country’s education system is deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage, which can be quite different from what international teachers are accustomed to.
For instance, the concept of ‘face’, a significant aspect of Asian cultures, can be difficult to understand for those from Western backgrounds. In the classroom, this can translate into students being hesitant to ask questions or admit they don’t understand something, for fear of losing face.
Moreover, the high respect for authority figures in Singaporean culture may also pose a challenge. Students are often less likely to question their teachers, which can make interactive teaching methods less effective.
2. High Academic Expectations
Singapore is renowned for its rigorous academic standards. The country consistently ranks among the top in international education rankings, and there is a strong emphasis on academic excellence. This can put immense pressure on both students and teachers.
International teachers may find the high expectations challenging, especially when it comes to grading and assessment. The standards for an ‘A’ grade in Singapore might be much higher than what they’re used to in their home country.
Furthermore, the competitive nature of the education system means that teachers are often under pressure to ensure their students perform well in examinations. This can lead to a high-stress teaching environment.
3. Language Barriers
While English is one of the official languages in Singapore and the medium of instruction in schools, international teachers may still face language barriers. This is because Singaporean English, or ‘Singlish’, incorporates elements from other languages such as Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil.
Understanding Singlish can be a challenge for international teachers, especially when it comes to classroom communication. For instance, a phrase like “Can borrow me your pen?” might seem grammatically incorrect to a native English speaker, but it’s a common Singlish phrase.
Moreover, teachers may also need to understand and use some basic phrases in other languages to communicate effectively with their students, especially those who are less proficient in English.
4. Work-Life Balance
Teaching in Singapore can be demanding, with long working hours and high expectations. This can make it difficult for international teachers to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Teachers often have to work beyond school hours to prepare lessons, grade assignments, and participate in extracurricular activities. This, coupled with the high-stress nature of the job, can lead to burnout if not managed properly.
International teachers may also find it challenging to adapt to the fast-paced lifestyle in Singapore. The city-state is known for its efficiency and productivity, which can be overwhelming for those used to a slower pace of life.
5. Cost of Living
Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in. The high cost of living can be a significant issue for international teachers, especially those on a tight budget.
Rent, food, transportation, and other daily expenses can quickly add up. While salaries for teachers in Singapore are generally competitive, it may not always be enough to cover these high costs, especially for those supporting a family.
Moreover, international teachers may also have to bear additional costs such as international school fees for their children, which can be quite hefty in Singapore.
In conclusion, while teaching in Singapore can be a rewarding experience, it’s not without its challenges. Understanding these issues can help prospective international teachers prepare better and navigate their teaching journey in the Lion City more smoothly.
Elevate Your Teaching Career with iQTS
Understanding the challenges of teaching in Singapore is just the first step. If you’re ready to make your next move in the international teaching arena, The IQTS at UWE can help. Our International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) programme is designed to enhance your professional development, increase your chances of landing interviews, and accelerate your career progression. With our programme, you’ll join a global community of educators, gain a deeper understanding of international curricula, and enjoy the flexibility of online study. Don’t let the barriers hold you back. Make Your Next Step with the iQTS programme and transform your teaching journey today.