My name is John Black, and I’ve had the privilege of teaching abroad for several years. My journey began in July 2013 when I stepped outside Kenya for the first time to teach in Tanzania. That experience was both enriching and eye-opening, setting the stage for my career in international education.
After my time in Tanzania, I returned to Kenya briefly before taking a bold step in December 2017—I moved to China, where I have been teaching ever since. My decision was driven by a deep desire to explore new cultures and refine my teaching skills in an international environment.
Navigating the Job Search
Finding teaching opportunities abroad requires strategy and persistence. I used several reputable online platforms, including Dipont Education, Search Associates, and International School Services. These platforms provided valuable insights and connections, eventually leading me to Dipont Education, where I secured a position that aligned perfectly with my career aspirations. A key factor in landing the job was a referral from a trusted colleague, highlighting the importance of networking in the job search process.
The Visa Application Process
Relocating to China involved careful planning, especially with the visa application. The school I joined handled my work permit application, which required authenticated documents such as:
- My degree certificate
- Teachers’ Service Commission Certificate
- Certificate of Good Conduct
Once my work permit was approved, I applied for a Z-visa, which allowed me to work legally in China. The Chinese visa application website provided clear guidelines, making the process straightforward and manageable.
Advice for Aspiring Teachers
Based on my experiences, here are some key takeaways for educators looking to teach abroad:
1. Prepare Professionally – Ensure your teaching skills meet international standards and that you are well-versed in global curricula.
2. Embrace Cultural Awareness – Understanding the culture of your destination country will help you integrate smoothly and enhance your overall experience.
3. Anticipate Challenges – Be prepared for cultural differences and, in some cases, instances of racism. Awareness helps you navigate these situations with resilience.
4. Understand Academic Expectations – Different countries have varying academic standards. In China, for instance, there is a strong emphasis on high performance in international examination curricula.
5. Build a Strong Network – Having a support system of fellow teachers and professionals can provide guidance and help you discover job opportunities.
Sharing My Journey
If my story can inspire or guide someone considering teaching abroad, I would be truly grateful. Moving abroad for work is a transformative experience that expands your worldview, introduces you to new perspectives, and fosters professional growth.
Teaching in China has been both rewarding and challenging, and I look forward to continuing my journey in global education. The opportunities you come across often depend on the networks you build.
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Hello Mr. Ochola, I’m Priscila Wanjiru , an English and literature teacher desiring to get an opportunity abroad, to be specific in China. I’m really inspired by your writing am not the same as I was before reading it . I’m grateful but how do you apply for this jobs,, I’ve used various sites such as LinkedIn, jooble but I’ve never secured an opportunity but I hope and believe that one day I will ,, maybe I would like you to inform me on writing your CV..how do you go about it plus an application letter.