Venturing into a teaching career in an international school in Malaysia can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. The country’s rich cultural diversity, coupled with its vibrant education sector, offers a unique platform for educators to broaden their horizons. However, the application process can be somewhat daunting, especially for first-timers. This guide aims to simplify the process by outlining five key steps you need to take.
Step 1: Understand the Requirements
Qualifications
Before you embark on your application journey, it’s crucial to understand the qualifications needed. Most international schools in Malaysia require a Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field. This is akin to the UK, where a degree in Education or a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is the norm. However, unlike in the UK, some international schools in Malaysia may also accept a degree in any field, provided you have a teaching certification.
Experience
Experience is another key requirement. Most schools prefer candidates with at least two years of teaching experience. This is similar to schools in other Asian countries like Singapore or Hong Kong. However, don’t be disheartened if you’re a newly qualified teacher. Some schools may consider your practicum experience during your teacher training.
Step 2: Find Suitable Vacancies
Job Portals
Once you’re clear on the requirements, the next step is to find suitable vacancies. There are several online job portals where international schools in Malaysia advertise their vacancies. These include JobStreet, Indeed, and TeachAway. This is somewhat similar to the UK, where platforms like TES and Guardian Jobs are popular.
School Websites
Another effective method is to visit the websites of the international schools directly. Many schools post their vacancies on their career pages. This method is akin to how schools in the US often post job openings on their websites.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application
CV and Cover Letter
Once you’ve found a suitable vacancy, the next step is to prepare your application. This typically includes a CV and a cover letter. Your CV should highlight your qualifications, experience, and skills relevant to the role. Your cover letter, on the other hand, should express your interest in the role and the school. This is similar to the application process in Australia, where a CV and cover letter are standard.
References
Most schools will also ask for references. These can be from your previous employers or tutors. It’s important to choose referees who can vouch for your teaching abilities and professionalism. This is akin to the process in Canada, where references play a crucial role in the application process.
Step 4: The Interview Process
Initial Interview
If your application is shortlisted, the next step is the interview process. This usually starts with an initial interview, which can be conducted over Skype or Zoom. This is similar to the process in many European countries, where initial interviews are often conducted online.
Final Interview
If you pass the initial interview, you may be invited for a final interview. This could be face-to-face or online, depending on the school’s preference. In some cases, you may also be asked to deliver a demo lesson. This is akin to the process in countries like Japan, where demo lessons are a common part of the interview process.
Step 5: Accepting the Offer
Contract Review
If you’re successful in the interview, the final step is to review and accept the job offer. It’s important to thoroughly review the contract before signing. Look out for details like salary, benefits, working hours, and termination clauses. This is similar to the process in the UAE, where contract review is a crucial step before accepting a teaching job.
Visa Application
Once you’ve accepted the offer, the school will usually assist with the visa application process. This involves submitting various documents and may take several weeks. This is akin to the process in China, where schools often assist with the visa application process for foreign teachers.
In conclusion, applying for a teaching job in an international school in Malaysia involves several steps, from understanding the requirements to accepting the job offer. While the process may seem daunting, it’s quite manageable if you take it one step at a time. Good luck with your application!
Enhance Your International Teaching Career with iQTS
As you embark on the journey to join an international school in Malaysia, ensure you stand out in the competitive application process with The IQTS at UWE. Our International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) Programme is designed to elevate your teaching credentials, offering a Level 7 qualification that not only increases your chances of securing a position but also propels your career forward. With the iQTS, you’ll join the ranks of educators who enjoy a 45% higher promotion rate and a significant salary increase. Don’t let the common hurdles hold you back. Embrace the opportunity for professional growth, expanded networks, and a deepened understanding of global education systems. Make Your Next Step today and transform your teaching career with the support of the iQTS programme.