You’ve moved across the world: new home, new workplace, new environment. Initially it can feel really exciting. You may make connections quickly or not. Either way, it’s likely that sooner or later you will miss your loved ones: family, old friends and even ex-colleagues. I am in week 2 of my move, less than aContinue reading “Settling in: Part 2 – Missing loved ones”
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Settling in: Part 1
Overwhelmed/disorientated/unsure/uncomfortable…normal feelings at the start of the move! It can be the most disorientating and overwhelming feeling to be taking on a new job, in a new country, and finding a new home. This is my first year of stepping down from joining an international school, to help my family relocate. However, the feelings ofContinue reading “Settling in: Part 1”
Subsequent Relocation: Is it any easier?
For those of you heading towards the departure date, how do you feel? I am now on my sixth overseas relocation (seven if you count a stint in California as a student). But I’ve got to say, except for knowing what to take with me and put in place before I go, the feeling ofContinue reading “Subsequent Relocation: Is it any easier?”
[Insert country here] is not for everyone
I have just completed a two year teaching placement in Warsaw, Poland. As Europe is often seen as a ‘top’ international destination, why did I chose to leave after completing my contract? Simply, I never felt the country was a ‘good fit’ for me or my family. Having spent more than a decade in Asia,Continue reading “[Insert country here] is not for everyone”
First quarter of 2023: A time to reflect and learn
First and foremost, a quick shout out to teachers now starting their Easter break! I hope you enjoy a peaceful and well-deserved rest. If you are moving abroad this year, take the time to check out my chapters on prior preparation before the move, and how to adjust to your new location. Believe me, itContinue reading “First quarter of 2023: A time to reflect and learn”
Moving from a large international school to a one-form entry
This was a recent article I produced for the TES. It discusses my shock at the change, but how I have learnt to adapt and found many positives in working within a small school. I hope it may help some readers in the same position.
2023: Seeking and Responding to Surprises
I thought I’d start with this image: more than 100 locks of love secured and promised. How often do we promise ourselves something, which reflects our love for ourselves? I’m guessing, if you are like me, practically never! This picture was just one I snapped as I walked around Gdansk, this Christmas break. Here isContinue reading “2023: Seeking and Responding to Surprises”
Culture Shock: What’s your experience?
Hi international teachers! I am currently researching ‘culture shock’. This has been a term I have come across several times, usually at inductions at new schools. Currently, I am designing a course to support international teachers and I would love to unpick the term further, in our context. Although is a lack of specific researchContinue reading “Culture Shock: What’s your experience?”
The Process of Settling
So I thought I’d update on all that has happened since arriving at my new international teaching position, Poland. We started on the right foot, with a holiday in Poland. Although short lived, as both my husband and daughter suffered with Covid from day 4 of arrival, starting on a high certainly built the excitement.Continue reading “The Process of Settling”
Tomorrow’s the Day for New Adventures!
So the day has finally come! I wanted to connect with all international teachers about to take the plunge. I’m on my fifth move now, but this one has made me reflect deeply on my choice to live abroad. This really surprised me, as all I have ever wanted to do in my life wasContinue reading “Tomorrow’s the Day for New Adventures!”
New to International Teaching with Jess Gosling 