What are my chances of getting a job overseas?

There is a continuing demand for well-qualified and experienced UK teachers to work abroad. The majority of overseas education opportunities are in teaching or training roles, particularly teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL). Overseas vacancies increasingly ask for a TEFL qualification, although there may be lower paid unqualified positions available. Those without a TEFL qualification may find it more difficult to obtain a visa. Prospects for TEFL are currently good, due to the continued demand for English as a global language of business. For more information on TEFL, including training, see English as a foreign language teacher and i-to-i TEFL .

Universities internationally advertise research posts and lectureships, although networks of collaboration are common routes to gaining overseas academic positions. These posts tend to ask for relevant experience and research focus. For jobs based in the UK, some work may be carried out in overseas research facilities, depending on the subject; however, a junior researcher may not get the opportunity to work abroad. Fluency in another language can be very useful, although in a significant number of overseas schools and universities the language of tuition is English.

Whilst European Union (EU) nationals have the right to work in other EU countries, current high levels of unemployment in some countries may mean it is more difficult to find a job.

Short-term opportunities are a popular way for students to gain education experience overseas. These include gap year and vacation jobs in summer camps, sports activities and education in the developing world.

Prospects for non-teaching posts in education overseas vary widely depending upon the kind of work, the qualifications, experience and language skills needed, and visa/work permit restrictions.

Will my qualifications be recognised?

Students who complete a four-year Bachelor of Education (BEd) or a degree plus PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) are qualified to teach in Europe, New Zealand, USA and Australia. Many countries prefer trained teachers with postgraduate-level qualifications, full qualified teacher status (QTS) and experience.

Long-term posts to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL) often ask for a diploma or postgraduate qualification in TEFL, as well as full QTS and post-qualification experience. A short course at certificate level may be sufficient for shorter-term posts.

For administration and support roles, a UK degree is widely recognised in both English and non-English speaking countries.

Where are the opportunities?

TEFL opportunities exist worldwide in countries where the national language is not English, for example, Japan, China and countries in the Middle and Far East. Employers include commercial language schools, mainstream schools and colleges, and multinational companies.

For teaching posts and posts in the education sector in general, opportunities occur in English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. However, there is also a demand for UK qualified teachers in other countries, such as China. International schools globally recruit qualified teachers at primary and secondary level. However, depending on the type of school, there may not be an opportunity to complete the Newly Qualified Teacher (NQT) year.

Although service children's education has been reduced with recent cutbacks, there may be opportunities teaching in HM Forces schools abroad. For more information see Working for Service Children's Education .

Openings for voluntary work exist in a wide range of countries, including North America and Australia, where you can work with children in summer camps, providing pastoral care and leading sports activities. In developing countries, there are opportunities in informal teaching, community and welfare roles. Voluntary work opportunities for recent graduates are normally short term and volunteers may have to pay for living expenses as well as travel. For longer-term voluntary work you will usually need professional training and experience. Research any opportunities thoroughly to ensure you are happy with the project and terms and conditions on offer.