Singapore, a vibrant city-state known for its high standard of education, is a popular destination for international teachers. The International Qualification for Teacher Standards (IQTS) provides a benchmark for teachers worldwide, and those who meet these standards often find themselves in demand in Singapore’s competitive education sector. However, despite the opportunities, there are several challenges that IQTS international teachers may face in Singapore. This blog post will explore five of these challenges in detail.
1. Cultural Differences
One of the first challenges that international teachers may face in Singapore is the cultural differences. Singapore is a multicultural city-state with a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. This cultural diversity can be both exciting and daunting for international teachers.
For example, the teaching methods that work well in their home country may not be as effective in a Singaporean classroom. Singaporean students are often more reserved and may not respond well to a more interactive teaching style. Similarly, the high respect for authority in Singaporean culture may require teachers to adopt a more formal demeanour than they are used to.
Moreover, understanding the local customs and traditions can also be a challenge. For instance, during Chinese New Year, it is customary for students to give their teachers red envelopes as a sign of respect. International teachers may not be aware of this tradition and may feel uncomfortable accepting these gifts.
2. High Expectations
Singapore’s education system is renowned for its high standards and rigorous curriculum. As a result, there are high expectations for teachers, both from the education authorities and from parents. This can put a lot of pressure on international teachers, especially those who are new to the country.
For instance, Singaporean parents often have high academic expectations for their children and expect teachers to deliver excellent results. This can lead to long hours of lesson planning and marking, as well as additional responsibilities such as providing extra tuition or attending parent-teacher meetings.
Furthermore, the Singaporean education system places a strong emphasis on continuous professional development. Teachers are expected to regularly update their skills and knowledge, which can be challenging for those who are already struggling to adapt to a new environment.
3. Language Barriers
Although English is one of the official languages in Singapore, there can still be language barriers for international teachers. This is because Singaporean English, also known as Singlish, is a unique blend of English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. It can be difficult for newcomers to understand, especially when spoken quickly.
Moreover, some international teachers may be required to teach in a second language, such as Mandarin or Malay. This can be a challenge for those who are not fluent in these languages. Even if they are, the local dialects and accents can still pose a challenge.
Additionally, written communication can also be a challenge. For example, Singaporean students are taught British English in school, which may be different from the American English that many international teachers are used to. This can lead to confusion and misunderstandings, especially when it comes to spelling and grammar.
4. 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 challenge for international teachers, especially those on a tight budget.
Rent, in particular, can be a major expense. Even a small apartment in a less desirable neighbourhood can be quite expensive. Moreover, the cost of groceries, transportation, and other daily necessities can quickly add up.
While international teachers in Singapore often receive a decent salary, it may not be enough to cover all these expenses, especially if they have a family to support. Therefore, financial planning and budgeting are crucial for international teachers in Singapore.
5. Adapting to the Climate
Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate, which means it is hot and humid all year round. For those who are used to a temperate climate, adapting to the heat and humidity can be a challenge.
The high humidity can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, and it can also affect health. For example, it can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and skin problems. Therefore, it’s important for international teachers to take care of their health and stay hydrated.
Moreover, the frequent rain can also be a challenge. It can disrupt outdoor activities and make commuting difficult. Therefore, it’s important for international teachers to be prepared for the weather and have a flexible schedule.
In conclusion, while Singapore offers many opportunities for IQTS international teachers, it also presents several challenges. By understanding these challenges and preparing for them, international teachers can have a successful and rewarding experience in Singapore.
Take the Leap with The IQTS at UWE
Understanding the challenges faced by IQTS international teachers in Singapore is just the first step. If you’re ready to enhance your professional development, overcome barriers to qualification, and connect with a global community of educators, The IQTS at UWE is your next move. Our iQTS programme is specifically designed to prepare you for the demands of international teaching, offering a significant boost in career progression, salary, and adaptability to different education systems. Don’t let isolation or underqualification hold you back. Make Your Next Step towards a fulfilling international teaching career by joining our iQTS programme. Enroll now and transform your teaching journey.