MOVING TO THE UK AS A TEACHER IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK
TLDRIn this insightful video, Rashida Jamila Patterson, a young Jamaican teacher, shares her journey of relocating to the UK on a Skill Booker Visa. She discusses the demand for science, math, and English teachers, her interview process with various agencies, and the challenges she faced. Rashida highlights the importance of having a degree, relevant experience, and a good accent to increase one's chances of securing a teaching position. She also provides practical advice on adapting to the UK's educational system, safeguarding policies, and the benefits of private tutoring. The conversation offers a wealth of information for aspiring teachers looking to embark on a similar path.
Takeaways
- π Rashida Jamila Patterson is a 21-year-old teacher from Jamaica who recently moved to the UK on a Tier 2 Skill Worker Visa.
- π Rashida teaches science at a secondary school and emphasizes the demand for science, math, and English teachers in the UK.
- π She used platforms like LinkedIn and education agencies (Overclass, Hourglass, Time Plan, I Can Teach UK) to secure her teaching position.
- πΌ Rashida advises not to pay any agency for teacher placement in the UK, as schools should cover these costs.
- π£οΈ She mentions the importance of having a good accent, similar to that of the US or UK, which could potentially help in securing a teaching position.
- π« Rashida had a one-week orientation at her school before starting to teach, which helped her understand the school's behavior and teaching systems.
- π She describes her teaching schedule, which varies from week to week, with some weeks being lighter than others.
- π‘ Rashida suggests that being able to relate to students, especially teenagers, can be an advantage in teaching.
- πΌ She recommends arriving early for interviews and showing personality to stand out among candidates.
- π’ Rashida advises that having Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) can help teachers earn more and makes getting a job easier.
- π° She shares her personal experience with the cost of living in London, including her rent and the cost of the health surcharge for teachers.
Q & A
What type of teachers are currently in high demand in the UK?
-Science, mathematics, and English teachers are in high demand, with a particular emphasis on science teachers.
What is a Tier 2 Skill Worker Visa?
-It is a type of visa that allows individuals with specific skills to work in the UK, such as teachers.
How long did it take Rashida to secure a teaching position in the UK after starting her job search?
-Rashida started her job search in October and secured her position by February the following year.
What platforms did Rashida use to find teaching job interviews?
-Rashida used LinkedIn and multiple education agencies such as Overclass, Hourglass, and Time Plan.
What subject does Rashida teach?
-Rashida teaches science at a secondary school level.
What are the general requirements for a teaching position in the UK?
-Typically, schools prefer candidates with at least two years of teaching experience and a relevant teaching degree.
How did Rashida's accent potentially influence her job prospects?
-Rashida's accent, which resembles that of someone from the US or the UK, might have been advantageous as it was familiar and appealing to the schools.
What is the Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) and why is it necessary?
-The COS is a document provided by a prospective employer in the UK that confirms the job offer and sponsorship for a work visa application.
What advice does Rashida give for acing a teaching interview in the UK?
-Rashida suggests showing personality, being early for interviews, and demonstrating knowledge of the school's safeguarding and behavior policies.
What is the Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and its importance for teachers?
-QTS is a status that recognizes a teacher as qualified in their home country, making it easier to get a teaching job and potentially earning a higher salary.
What is the cost associated with the health surcharge for teachers coming to the UK?
-Teachers are required to pay a health surcharge of approximately Β£700 per year.
What are Rashida's recommendations for new teachers considering moving to the UK?
-Rashida advises registering with an agency, being genuine in interviews, ensuring no scams are involved, and considering financial implications, especially if moving with dependents.
What challenges did Rashida face during her relocation process?
-Rashida faced challenges such as going through numerous interviews and correcting an error on her Certificate of Sponsorship which mistakenly identified her as being from Japan.
How does Rashida handle classroom management and preparation?
-Rashida arrives an hour early to prepare her lessons, organize the classroom, and ensure everything is in place to maintain a structured and efficient learning environment.
What is the typical daily schedule like for Rashida as a teacher?
-Rashida's schedule varies, with some days starting with two classes and others having up to five classes of approximately 50 minutes each, excluding transition times.
What are Rashida's thoughts on private tutoring versus teaching in a school?
-Rashida finds private tutoring to be more beneficial, suggesting it could be a better option for teachers considering additional work.
Outlines
π Journey of a Jamaican Teacher to the UK
The first paragraph introduces Rashida Jamila Patterson, a 21-year-old teacher from Jamaica who has recently relocated to the UK on a Tier 2 Skill Worker Visa. She shares her experience with the visa application process and her journey from starting the search in October to arriving in the UK by February. Rashida emphasizes the importance of persistence through numerous interviews and the challenges of finding a position as an overseas candidate. She also highlights the platforms she used to secure interviews, such as LinkedIn and various teaching agencies, and clarifies that these services are free of charge for teachers.
π¬ High Demand for Science Teachers in the UK
In the second paragraph, Rashida discusses the demand for science teachers in the UK and her own role as a secondary school science teacher. She mentions that while there is a need for various STEM subjects, science teachers are particularly sought after. Rashida also touches on the importance of having a relevant degree, such as her Bachelor's of Science in Education, and the experience required for teaching positions. She shares her personal experience of securing a job with less than the typical two years of experience due to her ability to relate to students and impress the school.
π« Insights into Teaching and School Culture in the UK
The third paragraph provides an in-depth look at Rashida's teaching experience in the UK. She compares the classroom dynamics in Jamaica and the UK, noting the differences in student behavior and the rights they have. Rashida talks about her teaching schedule, which varies from week to week, and the importance of preparation and organization in the classroom. She also discusses the orientation process and her approach to teaching, which includes being strict and well-prepared to maintain classroom control.
π Navigating Interviews and Visa Sponsorship
This paragraph focuses on the interview process for teaching positions and the subsequent visa sponsorship. Rashida advises on the importance of punctuality and showcasing personality during interviews. She also provides tips on how to research and prepare for common interview questions related to safeguarding, behavior policies, and extracurricular activities. Additionally, she explains the Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) and the process of applying for a visa, including the costs involved and the importance of ensuring the accuracy of the COS information.
πΌ Financial Considerations and QTS for Teachers
The fifth paragraph delves into the financial aspects of teaching in the UK, including salary expectations and the costs associated with the visa and health surcharge. Rashida discusses the benefits of having Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and how it can impact earnings. She also shares her personal living expenses, providing a realistic view of the cost of living in London. Rashida offers advice on contract lengths and considerations for teachers with families, emphasizing the importance of having clear financial goals when deciding to teach abroad.
π Encouragement and Advice for Aspiring UK Teachers
In the final paragraph, Rashida offers encouragement and advice for those considering teaching in the UK. She recommends registering with teaching agencies, being genuine in interviews, and ensuring that one is not being scammed. Rashida also discusses the benefits of coming to the UK with a clear goal in mind, especially if it involves saving money or advancing one's career. She provides personal insights on the value of the experience and the potential for a better quality of life and professional opportunities in the UK.
Mindmap
Keywords
π‘Skill Booker Visa
π‘IELTS
π‘Safeguarding
π‘QTS
π‘Certificate of Sponsorship (COS)
π‘STEM subjects
π‘Extracurricular activities
π‘Behavior policy
π‘Health surcharge
π‘Orientation
π‘Teaching degree
Highlights
In-demand teachers include science, English, and mathematics educators, with a particular emphasis on STEM subjects.
Teachers on a Tier 2 Skill Worker Visa may face challenges due to competition with candidates already in the UK.
Utilizing platforms like LinkedIn and education agencies can be effective for securing teaching interviews in the UK.
It's important for teachers to have a bachelor's degree in education with a focus on their teaching subject.
An appealing accent can be advantageous for teachers, as it can help them connect with students and colleagues.
Schools value teachers who can demonstrate experience and a commitment to extracurricular activities.
Understanding and adapting to the UK's safeguarding and behavior policies is crucial for teachers.
Teachers should be prepared for an unbalanced schedule, with lighter and heavier weeks in terms of class load.
Arriving early for work and being well-prepared can help teachers establish authority and maintain classroom control.
Private tutoring can be a lucrative alternative to classroom teaching for those seeking additional income.
Teachers are advised to show personality and be early for interviews to make a strong impression.
Understanding the school's ethos and mission statement can help teachers align their teaching philosophy with the institution's values.
The Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) is essential for obtaining a visa, and errors on the document can cause delays.
Teachers are responsible for the cost of their visa and the health surcharge, which does not qualify for free health insurance.
Having Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) can lead to higher pay and is beneficial for job prospects.
Considering the cost of living, especially rent, is important when deciding to move to the UK as a teacher.
Teachers are encouraged to have a clear goal and financial plan before moving to the UK to ensure it's a worthwhile endeavor.
Coming to the UK as a teacher can be a rewarding experience, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Transcripts
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