If you’re a UK-based teacher dreaming of sunshine, adventure, or just a fresh start in a new country — you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of UK teachers take their expertise abroad and never look back.
Whether it’s a sandy beach in the UAE, a buzzing city in Asia, or a tranquil European village, international teaching can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
Here’s a practical guide on how to become a teacher abroad — and the huge perks that come with it.
Why teach abroad?
Let’s start with the good stuff. Why even consider teaching overseas?
Perks of teaching internationally:
- Higher salaries and tax-free income (in countries like the UAE, China, and Qatar)
- Free or subsidized housing
- Travel opportunities – explore the world on your school holidays
- Diverse classrooms – students from all over the globe
- Lifestyle upgrade – less admin, more teaching (depending on the school)
- Cultural growth – you’ll expand your worldview, big time
- Career boost – international experience looks great on a CV
And honestly? Many UK teachers find that their quality of life improves dramatically, with better work-life balance, smaller class sizes, and more respect for the profession.
What qualifications do you need?
Most international schools will require:
- A Bachelor’s Degree: ideally in education or your subject area.
- A teaching qualification: such as a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education), QTS (Qualified Teacher Status), or PGDE in Scotland.
- Experience: many schools ask for at least two years of full-time teaching experience, but some accept newly qualified teachers.
- A clear DBS check or police clearance: safety first. Most countries will also require a criminal background check.
Bonus qualifications:
- IB, IGCSE, or American curriculum experience (depending on the region)
- TEFL/TESOL – helpful if you’re teaching English as a foreign language
Where can UK teachers work abroad?
UK teachers are in high demand thanks to the global reputation of the British curriculum.
Popular destinations include:
- UAE (Dubai, Abu Dhabi) – tax-free salaries, great expat life
- China and Hong Kong – competitive pay, cultural adventure
- Thailand and Vietnam – relaxed lifestyle, vibrant cities
- Spain, Italy and France – good food, better weather, EU lifestyle
- International schools in Africa – unique experiences and strong communities
- Online teaching or hybrid roles – work from anywhere!
What’s the process like?
- Research locations and schools
- Prepare your CV and tailor it to international roles
- Gather your references and documents (qualifications, DBS, passport)
- Apply and interview (often online)
- Accept the offer, get your visa, and start packing!
Many schools help with relocation costs, visa support, and housing — so you’re not doing it alone.
Real talk: challenges to be aware of
It’s not all sunsets and travel pics — there are a few things to prep for:
- Cultural adjustment (language, norms, new school systems)
- Being far from home/family (especially during holidays)
- Contract terms – always read the fine print before signing
- Some countries have strict visa/qualification rules
But for many, these are just small bumps on an otherwise epic journey.
Final thoughts
Becoming an international teacher from the UK isn’t just a career move — it’s a life move.
You’ll grow as a person, educator, traveler, and global citizen. And whether you stay for a year or a decade, it’s an experience that stays with you forever.
So if you’ve been feeling the itch to explore the world, meet new people, and rediscover your love for teaching — this might just be the adventure you’re looking for.
Ready to take the leap?
Start browsing jobs, polish up that CV, and start imagining where your classroom could take you next.