Teaching at International Schools in Asia

Posted by Sarah Fudin - 09:59 on 24 August 2011

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This post was submitted by Sarah Fudin who currently works in community relations for the University of Southern California's Masters in Teaching online program, which prepares students to earn their teacher credential. Outside of work Sarah enjoys running, reading and Pinkberry frozen yogurt.

International schools fulfill several educational goals. Some provide international education by following a national curriculum that is different from the country in which the school is located. These schools provide support for families living abroad, allowing them to send their children to a school that will provide an education to the one they would receive in their home country. For mobile families who move from country to country, international schools provide an easy way to transfer from schools in one country to those in another. International schools also allow parents who are living in their native country to place their children in a learning environment where they will be immersed in the languages, cultures and experiences of other countries. Many international schools follow a standard international curriculum such as the International Baccalaureate or the University of Cambridge International Examinations.

For English-speaking teachers who want to work abroad, international schools provide the opportunity for both career enhancement and personal enrichment. Teachers who work abroad can enjoy a change of pace in the classroom while immersing themselves in the culture of another country. As the world becomes more globalized, there has been a rise in the number of international schools and in the demand for TEFL instructors to staff them.

International Schools in China

There are more than 50 top-tier international schools in China. Located in Beijing as well as in provinces throughout China, many are rated as among the best international schools in the world.

The British School of Beijing
This school teaches the English National Curriculum (a standard curriculum used in England, Northern Ireland and Wales) to students ages two through 18. Founded in 2003, the school encompasses two campuses and provides a variety of extra-curricular sports and cultural activities. Teachers are required to have advanced degrees, a background in the English National Curriculum and proof of an up-to-date UK teaching credential.

International School of Beijing
Established in 1988 by the Chinese Ministry of Education and rebuilt in 2002 as an independent institution, this is one of the oldest international schools in China. A standards-based curriculum is employed for students up to the age of 18. Teaching applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree and teaching certification, as well as two years of teaching experience.

American International School of Guangzhou
This school includes elementary through high school students from 38 countries. The curriculum focuses on International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advance Placement (AP) coursework and testing. Applicants for teaching positions must have a Bachelor’s degree, teaching certification and proof of three years of teaching experience, and teaching candidates should be willing to participate in students' activities. Teachers from outside China receive relocation flights, moving and housing allowances, and annual trips home.

International Schools in Japan

Japan's role in the international marketplace has led to the establishment of dozens of international schools there. Here is a sampling of some of the best:

Yokohoma International School
This school was established in 1924 following the Great Kanto Earthquake and is now seen as one of the top international schools of its size in Asia. The school's academic program centers on the IB curriculum and includes coursework for a Global Citizen Diploma with an emphasis on community service and computer literacy. The school serves elementary, middle school and high school students from more than 40 countries.

Fukuoka International School
This international school was established in 1972. It follows the IB curriculum for primary grades through high school. Candidates for teaching positions must have teaching certification, proof of at least two years of teaching experience and excellent interpersonal skills. Travel expenses are covered for overseas teachers; shipping, housing and furniture allowances are also provided.

Osaka and Senri International Schools
Serving students from kindergarten through high school, these sister schools work together to provide both international and native Japanese education. International students receive a grounding in Japanese culture and follow an IB curriculum. A world-class music program is offered along with programs in sports and theater. The school boasts a 97% success rate for the IB Diploma.

International Schools in South Korea

South Korea is home to several excellent international schools.

Korea International School
Founded in 1999 and located near Seoul, this school is only open to students who have lived overseas for three years or more and have at least one non-Korean parent. A high GPA and letters of recommendation are also required. The school's curriculum is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and includes coursework in English, math, science, history, visual and performing arts, and instructional technology. Prospective teachers can apply online for positions.

Seoul International School
When it was established in 1973, this was the first international school to be officially recognized by the Republic of Korea. In addition to offering a challenging WASC-accredited curriculum for students in grades K through 12, this school offers beautiful state-of-the-art facilities. Prospective teachers must be certified and have at least two years of full-time experience teaching.

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For more information about international schools in Asia and throughout the world, visit CertificationMap.com.