Q:
I am currently teaching in Manitoba. I have two years of teaching experience. I would like to know what the minimum qualifications are for teaching in Australia.  - Asked by Winnie Ferguson 

A:
Igor: 
Australia is not our favorite destination, due to the amount of red tape involved. However, since you are Canadian things are a bit easier for you. Present migration requirements for teachers are for an award, which is comparable to an Australian  bachelor degree, plus at least a year of professional studies and teaching practice in education at a recognized institution. Even if your qualifications are accepted by a registration board or employing authority, you're not guaranteed employment as a teacher. Employment will depend on other factors -- for instance, the number of vacancies or your suitability for a particular job. 

Pamela: 
There are many other important details. You should contact the nearest Australian embassy, high commission or consulate. Some vacancies are available online. For example, http://www.sofweb.vic.edu.au/hrm/recruit/ lists openings in Victoria. 

Q:
I would love to be an overseas teacher, as I have always wanted to travel and teach. I was wondering how I could become a teacher overseas, and how you felt about your teaching job?  - Asked by Jessica Bond 

A:
Igor: 
It's a rewarding job. You only have to be a graduate from a university or teacher's college, and have certification from some state. It helps to have two years of teaching experience, but sometimes you will be hired if you have lived overseas for some  time. The more teaching experience you have, the better -- and make sure your grades and recommendations are top notch. Good luck! 

Q:
What's it like to go places that you've never been before?  - Asked by Jennifer 

A:
Pam: 
Well, this is one of the reasons to live and travel overseas! It's terribly exciting, and it makes every day an adventure. If you love to experience new things, then each day becomes a treasure. You will see amazing people and situations, smell unusual smells, and taste food combinations you never thought imaginable. It's also very exciting to go somewhere you have only read about or seen in pictures. Even the most famous historic landmarks and buildings are amazing when seen in reality. 

Q:
What's child care like overseas?  - Asked by April Gruetzmacher 

A:
Igor: 
This depends on the country. If we had stayed in Bulgaria, we could have probably hired a nanny and cook to help us with the baby (and still have saved money). I think  children are loved the world over, sometimes to the point of being spoiled -- it's not something I would have worried over. Actually, in most other countries children are toilet trained at a much younger age. Our son was out of diapers at home when he was just over one year old. Other  countries have more practical solutions to problems than finding a more absorbent  diaper. Child care is free in most European countries, as is a college education. 

Q:
Why did you decide to teach overseas? Did you do it so you could travel the world?  - Asked by Ludy R. 

A:
Pam: 
Absolutely! I was looking for a job which would offer me flexibility, creativity and a chance to see the world. It was a great decision. I hope one day to work my way around the world (I'm halfway there!). 

Q:
Is there an upper limit on the age of people who can teach overseas?  - Asked by Elaine Bauman 

A:
Pam: 
No. We have taught with people of all ages. If you are in good health, you will be able to teach overseas. Maturity is important because it shows that you will be able to  weather the changes of living in a new environment. Those who have seen more in their lives are more adaptable. 

Q:
Is there anywhere you wouldn't recommend working?  - Asked by Suzanne Kiltille

A:
Pam 
As a woman, I would think twice about working in a country which has repressive attitudes toward women, although it doesn't seem to bother other female teachers as the pay is often very high. I wouldn't want to work in a country with an unstable government. Two good friends of mine are in Indonesia and it was scary last spring when the students were rioting and foreigners were scrambling to get out of the country,  although they say that it is now safe and there are no problems. Because the local currency devalued so intensely the dollar is king and they are living like millionaires. We decided to leave Bulgaria finally because there was a water crisis and we had water rationing two out of three days. I wouldn't want to live in a country again where water was a problem. 

Igor 
Please note that what Pam calls "repressive attitudes towards women" can mean quite a different thing in the local culture. For example, in some countries in the Middle East women are not allowed to drive, so the school will assign drivers to their female teachers. From the local viewpoint, though, it's not discrimination but protection and a sign of respect. 

More of Pam & Igor's questions & answers?  Go to page two
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