If you’re a teacher looking to expand your horizons and embark on an exciting international teaching career, Morocco could be the perfect destination for you. With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and a growing number of international schools, it’s a country that offers a wealth of opportunities. But one question that often arises is, when do international schools in Morocco start hiring? Let’s delve into this topic and provide some clarity.
Understanding the Academic Year in Morocco
Before we get into the hiring process, it’s important to understand the academic year in Morocco. Similar to the UK, the academic year in Morocco typically starts in September and ends in June, with a few weeks of holiday in between. This is a crucial piece of information as it directly impacts the hiring timeline of schools.
However, unlike the UK, Morocco has two Eid holidays that can sometimes disrupt the school calendar. These holidays are based on the lunar Islamic calendar and therefore their dates vary each year. Schools usually adjust their academic calendar to accommodate these holidays.
The Hiring Process
Now that we have a grasp of the academic year, let’s delve into the hiring process. International schools in Morocco, like most around the world, follow a specific hiring cycle. This cycle is typically linked to the academic year.
Most international schools in Morocco begin their recruitment process in the early part of the year, usually around January or February. This gives them ample time to screen applicants, conduct interviews, and finalise contracts before the new academic year begins in September.
Early Bird Recruitment
Some schools, particularly those that are highly competitive or have a large number of vacancies, may start their recruitment process even earlier. These “early bird” recruitments can start as early as October or November of the preceding year. If you’re keen on securing a position at one of these schools, it’s advisable to start your job search early.
Early bird recruitment is also common for leadership roles or specialised teaching positions that may require more time to fill. So if you’re looking for a senior role or have a unique teaching specialisation, it’s worth keeping an eye out for these early recruitment drives.
Rolling Recruitment
On the other hand, some schools may have a rolling recruitment process, where they accept applications and hire teachers throughout the year. This is often the case for schools that are expanding or have high staff turnover. While this can provide more flexibility for job seekers, it can also be more unpredictable.
It’s worth noting that while these schools may accept applications throughout the year, the majority of positions are still likely to start in September, in line with the academic year.
How to Secure a Teaching Position
Now that we’ve covered when international schools in Morocco start hiring, let’s look at how you can secure a teaching position.
Firstly, it’s important to have the necessary qualifications. Most international schools in Morocco require teachers to have a Bachelor’s degree in education or a related field, and a teaching certification from their home country. Some schools may also require a Master’s degree or a certain number of years of teaching experience.
Applying Directly
One way to apply for teaching positions is to apply directly to the schools. Most international schools have a careers section on their website where they list current vacancies. You can send your CV and cover letter directly to the school, following the application instructions provided.
Applying directly can be a good option if you have a specific school in mind, or if you prefer to have direct contact with the school during the application process.
Using a Recruitment Agency
Another option is to use a recruitment agency that specialises in international teaching positions. These agencies can provide a wealth of resources and support, such as CV advice, interview preparation, and information about living and working in Morocco.
Using a recruitment agency can be particularly beneficial if you’re new to international teaching or if you’re applying for positions in multiple countries. They can help streamline the application process and increase your chances of securing a position.
Conclusion
In conclusion, international schools in Morocco typically start hiring in the early part of the year, with some starting as early as October or November. However, some schools may have a rolling recruitment process, accepting applications throughout the year.
Securing a teaching position in Morocco requires the right qualifications and a proactive approach to job searching. Whether you choose to apply directly or use a recruitment agency, it’s important to start your job search early and be prepared for the recruitment process.
With its vibrant culture and growing international school sector, Morocco offers a unique and rewarding teaching experience. So why not take the leap and start your international teaching career in Morocco?
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