If you’re a teacher looking to make a move to the vibrant city of Berlin, you might be wondering when international schools in the city start their hiring process. The answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as you might think, as it can depend on a variety of factors such as the school’s individual needs, the academic calendar, and the local labour market. However, in this blog post, we’ll delve into the typical hiring timelines of international schools in Berlin and provide you with some tips to increase your chances of landing a teaching job in the city.
Understanding the Academic Calendar
Before we dive into the hiring timelines, it’s important to understand the academic calendar of international schools in Berlin. Unlike the UK where the academic year starts in September, in Germany, the school year typically begins in August and ends in July. This means that the hiring process can start as early as the beginning of the calendar year.
However, it’s worth noting that the hiring process can vary from school to school. Some schools may start their recruitment process earlier, while others may wait until closer to the start of the academic year. Therefore, it’s crucial to do your research and keep an eye on the job postings of the schools you’re interested in.
The Hiring Process
The hiring process for international schools in Berlin is typically thorough and can take several months. It often involves multiple stages, including an initial application, an interview (which can be conducted online or in-person), and potentially a teaching demonstration or trial day. This is why schools often start their recruitment process early in the year.
It’s also important to note that many international schools in Berlin prefer to hire teachers who have a minimum of two years of teaching experience and a teaching qualification recognised in their home country. Therefore, if you’re a newly qualified teacher, you may find the job market in Berlin more competitive.
When to Apply
As mentioned earlier, the hiring process for international schools in Berlin can start as early as the beginning of the calendar year. Therefore, if you’re looking to secure a teaching position for the next academic year, it’s a good idea to start your job search in January or February.
However, it’s also worth noting that some schools may have unexpected vacancies throughout the year due to staff turnover or changes in student numbers. Therefore, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the job postings of the schools you’re interested in throughout the year.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired
Now that we’ve covered when international schools in Berlin typically start their hiring process, let’s look at some ways you can increase your chances of landing a teaching job in the city.
Gain Relevant Experience
As mentioned earlier, many international schools in Berlin prefer to hire teachers with a minimum of two years of teaching experience. Therefore, gaining relevant teaching experience in your home country can significantly increase your chances of getting hired.
Earn a Recognised Teaching Qualification
Having a teaching qualification recognised in your home country is often a requirement for teaching positions in international schools in Berlin. Therefore, if you’re a newly qualified teacher, it’s a good idea to gain some experience and earn a recognised teaching qualification before applying for jobs in Berlin.
Learn German
While it’s not always a requirement, being able to speak German can be a significant advantage when applying for teaching jobs in Berlin. Not only can it make your day-to-day life in the city easier, but it can also make you a more attractive candidate to schools, particularly if you’re applying for a position that involves teaching German or interacting with local parents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the hiring process for international schools in Berlin typically starts early in the calendar year, with many schools starting their recruitment process in January or February. However, it’s important to keep an eye on the job postings of the schools you’re interested in throughout the year, as some schools may have unexpected vacancies.
By gaining relevant teaching experience, earning a recognised teaching qualification, and learning German, you can significantly increase your chances of landing a teaching job in the city. So, if you’re a teacher looking to make a move to Berlin, now is the time to start preparing for your job search.
Elevate Your Teaching Career with IPGCE
Ready to take your teaching career to the next level and thrive in the competitive Berlin international school market? IPGCE is your gateway to success. With our International Postgraduate Certificate in Education, you’ll not only meet the rigorous qualification standards but also enhance your chances of securing interviews by 50%. Embrace the opportunity for career advancement, increased salary, and a vibrant professional community. Our flexible online study options ensure you can grow without putting your current role on hold. Join the UK’s #1 Teacher Training Course and become part of a global network of educators who are 65% more adaptable to international curricula. Don’t let inadequate credentials hold you back—join IPGCE today and transform your professional future.
