Teaching Abroad with Prospero: An Aussie's Adventure in the UK

Going on an adventure to teach overseas is a dream many educators share. 

Post by: Prospero | March 15, 2024

We recently caught up with Amelia, an Australian teacher, who made the leap to the UK, sharing her insights on why connecting with Prospero Teaching International was the key to making this a reality.

For those keen enough to take the plunge, the experience is nothing short of life-changing. Read what Amelia has had to say about her experience so far!

Canadian Teacher, Amelia, in Bristol

“From submitting my expression of interest to helping with my visa and recommending accommodation, Prospero has been there for me. Their kindness and support made it possible for me to move overseas at such a young age.”

Why the UK?

“All my life, I have dreamt of travelling the world and immersing myself in different cultures. Along with that dream, I have also always wanted to be a teacher, so being able to move overseas and be able to do my dream job is the best decision and opportunity in the world. The UK was also the best place to settle, as it is very similar to Australia, and it is a lot easier and cheaper to travel from UK than it is from Australia.” 

The UK, with its similarities to Australia and convenient travel options, has proved to be an excellent destination for Amelia!

Choosing Prospero Teaching International

When asked why she opted for a teaching assistant role with Prospero, Amelia cited the excellent support and knowledge offered by the international team. 

“I was looking at lots of different companies and jobs that would allow me to travel or move overseas but none of them had as much support or knowledge as Prospero did.

     As I am in the middle of my teaching degree (which I have put on hold to come over here and travel for a few years) I am not officially qualified to be a classroom teacher, so being a teachers assistant was the next best thing and I’m so glad I chose it because it is so much fun just being with the kids and helping them to learn and understand.”

A Helping Hand from Prospero

“From the very beginning when I submitted my expression of interest, I have had unconditional support throughout this whole process. They have helped me with my Visa and have given me the best recommendations for accommodation and just overall anything I need help with they are there for me.

      It has been also really nice to know that the company I am working with supports me and has helped me move over seas all by myself at such a young age and without their kindness and support I don’t think I would’ve been able to do it.”

Thriving in UK Schools

One of the highlights of teaching in the UK, Amelia shared, was the familiarity of the education system, “my familiarity with everything definitely helped me settle in with the school faster. To be honest, the best thing about working at a school over here is the staff and how amazing and caring they have all been to me.” 

Embracing her Australian identity, she added, “they always have so many questions and are so interested in learning everything about me and it makes me really happy to share all my stories and put a smile on their curious faces..”

Living and Teaching Abroad – The Thrills and Perks

“Definitely has to be just exploring all the new places and seeing a whole new part of the world. I also love meeting all new people and getting to know their stories.

    This is also the first time I have lived out of home and away from my family, so the independence is really empowering as well, but I miss my family so much of course. The aspect of potential travelling I can do is also a very big perk, because back in Australia it takes a lot of time and money to travel anywhere, but over here I can go away for the weekend and it barely costs me much at all, so having that at my fingertips is so exciting.

Teaching in Bristol from the UK

Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Teachers

For those contemplating a similar move, Amelia has some valuable advice: 

“My biggest thing would be just going for it! The scariest part is being on your own, but everyone I came across from my first day up till now have been so nice and welcoming so you’re never really alone over here.

      Prospero is really good with this because they put me in contact with other people who have done the same thing as me and now I have friends to hang out with. I would say that this is the best decision I have ever made and there is going to be hard days but the good times and the good days and the students at school all make everything so worth it!” 

She urges prospective teachers to seize the opportunity, emphasizing that despite challenges, the good times and the students make it all worthwhile.

“Take the leap, because the UK is a beautiful part of the world, and I feel blessed beyond words to live here. When will an opportunity like this come around again? But if you’re coming from Australia, don’t underestimate the cold – bring really warm clothes!”

wintery scene for Australian teacher in UK

If you’d to chat with a friendly member of the team and find out what the Prospero Teaching International Teaching can help you, register your interest here, or email the team directly: internationalhub@prosperoteaching.com

Check out our guide to living and teaching in the UK

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