Kent M Blakeney

Teaching Overseas Kent M Blakeney

The best selling book on teaching in U. S. accredited American and International schools, Teaching Overseas: An Insider's (2nd Edition), is the ideal book for someone considering making the leap overseas. The book includes everything you need to know from learning about the structure of an overseas school, learning how to find the right job, moving, and adjusting to life overseas. The second edition has been completely updated with new sections such as Extra Credit tips, teacher vignettes from experienced overseas teachers, and results of the "The General" Overseas School Survey, TGOSS, survey from over 70 overseas teachers. If you are a teacher or aspiring teachers thinking about teaching in American or International Schools outside of the U. S., this book is for you. Most large cities around the world have at least one U. S. accredited school that functions similarly to a private day school in the U. S. In total there are about 8000 English-medium schools around the world. Although there will be a lot of diversity, most teachers come from the U. S., Canada, United Kingdom, or other native English speaking countries. Students often come from many countries around the world. Their parents are typically diplomats, military, or businessmen and women. Most, but not all schools, cap the local students to about 25% of the total student population. If you have a teaching license, some experience, and sense of adventure, teaching overseas might be for you. Most initial contracts are two years and include perks such as flights back to your home of record each year, housing, and other good benefits. Personally, I have had a great time teaching in six overseas' schools, visited 30 countries, saved a lot of money, and taught some really talented students. At the same time, I have had some moments I'd rather forget, but almost all of my memories are positive. In addition to teaching overseas, I met my wife, had two children, and earned a Ph. D. Surprisingly, I actually spend more time with my family in the States than I would have if I lived in the States. When traveling back for summers, my family and I typically spend two months on the 'grandparent trail'. Please feel free to email any questions you might have about the process, the book, or anything else related to teaching overseas. My email is keblakeney@hotmail.com. Best, Kent P. S.- This book is NOT geared for people looking to teach English (as a second language) overseas although many of the tips and suggestions about moving overseas would be helpful. The chapters on moving, dealing with family, moving from one post to another, what to bring, etc. would be helpful for anyone moving overseas for the first time.