When considering a career in education, the allure of teaching in an international school can be quite compelling. The opportunity to immerse oneself in a different culture, while shaping the minds of young learners from diverse backgrounds, is an experience that is both rewarding and enriching. Greece, with its rich history, stunning landscapes and warm, hospitable people, is a particularly attractive destination. However, it’s essential to understand the qualifications required to teach in international schools in Greece.
Academic Qualifications
The first step towards securing a teaching position in an international school in Greece is to ensure you have the necessary academic qualifications. Unlike other teaching positions, international schools often require a higher level of education.
Typically, a Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field is a must. However, some schools may require a Master’s degree or higher, particularly for senior teaching positions. It’s akin to wanting to play in the Premier League – you need to have honed your skills and gained significant experience to be considered.
Subject Specialisation
Having a degree in a specific subject area can be a significant advantage when applying for teaching positions in international schools. Just like a chef specialising in a particular cuisine is more likely to be hired by a restaurant serving that cuisine, teachers with a degree in the subject they wish to teach are often preferred.
For example, if you’re interested in teaching English, a degree in English Literature or Language would be beneficial. Similarly, a degree in Mathematics would be advantageous if you’re aiming to teach maths.
Teaching Certifications
Academic qualifications alone are often not enough to secure a teaching position in an international school in Greece. Most schools require teachers to have a recognised teaching certification. This is akin to a driver’s license – you may know how to drive, but you need the license to prove it.
These certifications demonstrate that you have been trained in teaching methodologies and understand the pedagogical approaches required to effectively teach students of different age groups.
TEFL Certification
For those interested in teaching English as a foreign language, a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification is often required. Much like a barista needs specific training to make the perfect cup of coffee, a TEFL certification equips you with the skills to teach English to non-native speakers.
It’s worth noting that while a TEFL certification is highly beneficial, it’s not always a requirement. Some schools may accept other English teaching certifications, such as TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages).
Experience
Experience is another crucial factor that international schools in Greece consider when hiring teachers. Just like a seasoned actor is more likely to land a leading role in a film, experienced teachers are often preferred by international schools.
Typically, schools look for teachers who have at least two years of teaching experience. However, the more experience you have, the better your chances of securing a position.
International Experience
While any teaching experience is beneficial, experience in an international school setting is particularly valued. This is akin to a chef who has worked in a Michelin-starred restaurant – the experience is viewed as a mark of quality and adaptability.
Teaching in an international school often involves dealing with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Therefore, having experience in such a setting demonstrates your ability to adapt your teaching methods to cater to a diverse student population.
Language Skills
While English is the medium of instruction in most international schools in Greece, having proficiency in other languages, particularly Greek, can be a significant advantage. It’s like being a tour guide – knowing the local language can help you connect better with the people and the culture.
Being able to communicate in Greek can help you build stronger relationships with students, parents, and colleagues. Moreover, it can also enhance your personal experience living and working in Greece.
Conclusion
Securing a teaching position in an international school in Greece requires a combination of academic qualifications, teaching certifications, experience, and language skills. It’s like preparing a gourmet meal – each ingredient is essential and contributes to the final result.
While the requirements may seem daunting, remember that each qualification and experience you gain is a step towards achieving your goal of teaching in an international school in Greece. So, keep learning, keep growing, and keep striving towards your dream.
Take the Next Step with IPGCE
If you’re inspired to pursue your dream of teaching in international schools in Greece, the International Postgraduate Certificate in Education (iPGCE) is your gateway to success. Overcome the barriers of stringent qualifications and join the UK’s #1 Teacher Training Course to enhance your credentials. With the iPGCE, you’ll not only increase your chances of securing interviews but also unlock opportunities for career progression, connect with a global network of professionals, and gain a profound understanding of international curricula. Embrace the flexibility of online study that fits your busy schedule and propels your professional development. Don’t let inadequate qualifications hold you back. Join the iPGCE program today and take a significant step towards achieving your teaching aspirations in Greece.
