Unlock the Thrilling Experience of Teaching in the UK as a South African Teacher with iCan Teach UK
At iCan Teach UK, we specialise in helping South African teachers secure their dream teaching roles in the UK. Relocating to a new country can be a challenging journey, but our expert team is here to provide tailored support and guidance to make it a seamless process.
We recruit for a wide range of teaching positions, including certified primary and secondary teachers across all subject areas and levels of experience. With strong connections to schools throughout London, the Home Counties, the South, and the Midlands, we're well-equipped to offer you the best opportunities to take your teaching career to the next level.
Why choose iCan Teach UK to teach in the UK?
The UK offers a diverse and dynamic range of teaching opportunities, from cosmopolitan cities to quaint countryside villages. As a South African teacher, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in new cultures, meet new people, and gain invaluable experience that will elevate your teaching career to new heights.
We understand that relocating to a foreign country can be a daunting prospect, which is why we offer comprehensive support and guidance throughout the entire process. From visa assistance to finding suitable accommodation, we're here to ensure a smooth and hassle-free transition to your new life as a UK-based teacher.
Ready to embark on an exciting new adventure? Contact iCan Teach UK today to learn more about our bespoke recruitment process and how we can help you turn your UK teaching ambitions into reality. With our expert guidance and support, you'll be well on your way to a fulfilling and rewarding teaching career in the UK.
What types of roles are available?
Permanent or Fixed Term Contracts
If you are a South African teacher coming to the UK on a Tier 2 Visa then your only option is to be employed directly by a school on either a Permanent or Fixed-Term Contract.
This would mean that you are employed directly by the employer, either on a permanent contract (with no end date) or on a Fixed Term Contract (for a specific period of time, usually between 1 and 2 years). The task of finding the right vacancy, completing application forms and submitting CVs can feel like a full-time job in itself. Our excellent relationships with schools and MATs throughout the country means that we can help you find the perfect role in the UK
Long Term Supply
(Only available to candidates who are not sponsored on Tier 2)
Long-term supply allows you to work on an ongoing basis in one school. This can vary from a few weeks, a term, or even a full year. These roles can often be to cover sickness, parental leave or because an unexpected vacancy has arisen for other reasons. Long-term supply can often lead to the offer of a permanent role and allows you to experience teaching in a variety of settings, ensuring that you can see how each school operates, and make sure that if you do decide to take a permanent role the one you select is the right place for you.
Day2Day Supply
(Only available to candidates who are not sponsored on Tier 2)
If you are looking for a role that gives you more of a work-life balance and mostly requires no planning - then supply teaching may be for you. It offers that flexibility so you can work around other commitments. It also affords you the opportunity to gain more experience in numerous settings and schools. Sometimes it is daunting accepting a permanent role right away - supply teaching allows you to get the feel for the school and can lead to a longer-term contract if that is what you are looking for. Through daily supply, you can ensure you are finding the perfect role for you.
Requirements for a South African Teacher in the UK
If you're a South African teacher interested in teaching in the UK, there are several requirements you need to fulfill before making the move.
Recognised Teaching Qualification
To teach in the UK as a South African teacher, you'll need to have a recognized teaching qualification, such as a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree or Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), from a recognized South African institution. The qualification should be equivalent to a UK teaching qualification and provide evidence of your subject knowledge, teaching skills, and ability to manage a classroom effectively.
Relevant Teaching Experience
You'll need to have at least two years of relevant teaching experience in South Africa or another country after obtaining your teaching qualification. This experience is required to demonstrate your ability to deliver high-quality education and manage a classroom effectively.
Background Check
All teachers in the UK must undergo a criminal background check to ensure the safety and well-being of students. You'll need to pass a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check or obtain an equivalent police check from your home country.
Find out more about the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check here.
Work Visa
To legally work in the UK, you'll need to obtain a valid work visa. The Tier 2 (General) Visa is the most common route for skilled workers, including teachers. To qualify for this visa, you'll need to have a job offer from a UK employer, meet the English language requirements, and score enough points under the UK points-based system.
Find more information on the Tier 2 General Visa here.
Understanding of the UK Education System and Curriculum
It's essential to have a good understanding of the UK education system and curriculum before moving to teach in the UK. Familiarizing yourself with the UK's National Curriculum, teaching methods, and educational policies will help you transition smoothly into your new role and ensure that you deliver high-quality education to your students.
English Language Proficiency:
It is important that teachers relocating to the UK are fluent in English, either as a first language or as a second language. A minimum score of 6.0 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is usually required.
Find out more about the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) here.
At iCan Teach UK, we offer guidance and support to South African teachers throughout the entire recruitment process. Our team can provide advice on meeting the necessary requirements for teaching in the UK and help you navigate the visa application process. With our support, you'll be well on your way to a rewarding teaching career in the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to teach in the UK as a South African teacher?
To teach in the UK, you'll need to have a recognized teaching qualification, such as a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree or Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), from a recognized South African institution. The qualification should be equivalent to a UK teaching qualification.
What experience do I need to teach in the UK as a South African teacher?
You'll need to have at least two years of relevant teaching experience in South Africa or another country after obtaining your teaching qualification. This experience is required to demonstrate your ability to deliver high-quality education and manage a classroom effectively.
Do I need a work visa to teach in the UK as a South African teacher?
Yes, you'll need a valid work visa to legally work in the UK. The Tier 2 (General) Visa is the most common route for skilled workers, including teachers. To qualify for this visa, you'll need to have a job offer from a UK employer, meet the English language requirements, and score enough points under the UK points-based system.
What kind of support can I expect from iCan Teach UK?
iCan Teach UK provides comprehensive support and guidance throughout the entire recruitment process, including advice on meeting the necessary requirements for teaching in the UK, visa support, and finding suitable accommodation.
Will I be able to teach the same subject in the UK as I did in South Africa?
The UK education system and curriculum may differ from what you're used to in South Africa. However, if you have a recognized teaching qualification and relevant experience, you may be able to teach the same subject or a related subject in the UK.
Can I bring my family with me to the UK?
Yes, you can bring your family with you to the UK. However, they'll need to obtain the appropriate visas and meet the relevant requirements to be able to join you.
What are the living costs like in the UK?
The cost of living in the UK varies depending on where you live and your lifestyle. Generally, the cost of living in cities is higher than in rural areas. You'll need to research the cost of living in your chosen location and budget accordingly.
At iCan Teach UK, we're here to answer any questions you may have about teaching in the UK as a South African teacher. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our recruitment process and how we can help you achieve your UK teaching aspirations.
Why Choose iCan Teach UK?
At iCan Teach UK, we're dedicated to helping teachers from around the world secure the perfect teaching role in the UK. Here's a closer look at why you should choose iCan Teach UK as your recruitment agency:
Expertise:
Our team has years of experience in supporting teachers from around the world in finding their perfect teaching role in the UK. We have established strong connections with schools throughout London, the Home Counties, the South, and the Midlands, and we use this network to help you find the best fit for your teaching career.
Personalised Service:
We understand that every teacher is unique, and we offer a personalised service to help you achieve your teaching goals in the UK. From initial consultations to visa support to finding accommodation, we are here to support you throughout the entire process of relocating to the UK.
Professional Development:
We are committed to providing teachers with opportunities to enhance their professional development. The UK education system offers many professional development opportunities for teachers, and we can help you find the right training courses and workshops to enhance your skills and knowledge.
Fair Pay:
At iCan Teach UK, we are committed to providing fair pay to all of our supply staff. We understand that our teachers work tirelessly to provide a high-quality education to their students, and we want to ensure that they are compensated fairly for their hard work and dedication.
Supportive Community:
At iCan Teach UK, we are more than just a recruitment agency. We are a supportive community of teachers, and we offer ongoing support and guidance throughout your teaching career in the UK. From social events to networking opportunities, we are here to help you connect with other teachers and make the most of your teaching experience in the UK.
Sister Company:
We work closely with our sister company Dunbar Education, which specializes in permanent teaching placements. This partnership allows us to provide our teachers with even more opportunities to find their perfect teaching role in the UK.
Learn more about Dunbar Education here.
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