Is this school the right fit for me?

Choosing the right international school is one of the most important decisions a teacher can make. Beyond the job title and salary, it is the school’s ethos, culture and working environment that will shape your day-to-day experience and long-term satisfaction. In a global market filled with attractive postings, how can you tell which school is genuinely the right fit for you – and for your family if you are relocating with your partner and children?

In this post, we offer a practical, reflective guide to help you navigate this crucial decision. Whether you are exploring your first international role or considering your next move abroad, this checklist will support you in asking the right questions, doing meaningful research and trusting your instincts.

1. Understand Your Own Values and Priorities

Before evaluating any school, teachers should first reflect on what they need in order to thrive. Consider the following:

• What kind of teaching philosophy aligns with your own?

• Do you prioritise academic rigour or a holistic, child-centred approach?

• How important is work-life balance versus professional development?

• Are you looking for a close-knit community or a large, well-resourced campus?

• Do you thrive under collaborative or more structured leadership?

2. Research the School Thoroughly

Do not rely solely on the school’s website or promotional materials. Go deeper:

• Look at inspection reports or accreditation details (e.g. CIS, COBIS, IB).

• Explore staff reviews on trusted forums and Facebook groups.

• Check news coverage for leadership changes or controversies.

• Check out the school’s page on LinkedIn.

3. Ask the Right Questions During the Interview

Use the interview not only to present yourself but also to gather vital information:

• How would you describe the school’s leadership style?

• What professional development opportunities are available?

• What does a typical working week look like?

• How is staff wellbeing supported?

• Can you describe the team I would be working with?

If answers are vague or overly polished, that can be a red flag.

4. Speak with Current or Former Staff

If possible, speak informally with someone who is teaching or has taught there:

• What do they enjoy most and least about working at the school?

• How are new teachers welcomed and supported?

• How are concerns or staff issues typically handled?

Tone and openness can speak volumes.

5. Consider the Wider Context

The school might be strong, but the location or lifestyle must also suit you:

• Is the cost of living manageable on the offered salary?

• Is the country and city family-friendly or socially engaging?

• Are there cultural or legal restrictions that may impact your wellbeing?

6. Listen to Your Instinct

Trust your gut. If something feels off such as rushed interviews, unclear contracts, inconsistent communication - it may not be the right fit. 

A reflective checklist for international teachers

Understanding My Own Priorities

1. What are my core values in teaching?

2. Do I prefer academic rigour or a holistic, student-centred approach?

3. How important is work-life balance to me?

4. Do I want to be part of a close-knit or a large school community?

5. What leadership style helps me thrive?

6. What are my non-negotiables?

Researching the School

1. Have I read recent inspection or accreditation reports (e.g. CIS, COBIS, IB)?

2. Have I looked for independent staff reviews online?

3. Have I researched the school’s recent history and reputation?

4. Have I reached out to current staff on LinkedIn?

Interview Questions to Ask

1. What is the leadership style and decision-making culture?

2. What are the expectations for workload and working hours?

3. What induction or ongoing support is provided to new staff?

4. What professional development is offered?

5. How is staff wellbeing supported?

6. Can I meet or hear about the team I will be working with?

Seeking Staff Perspectives

1. Have I spoken with a current or former teacher at the school?

2. What did they enjoy most and least about the school?

3. How were concerns or challenges addressed?

Considering the Location and Lifestyle

1. Can I live comfortably on the salary provided?

2. Is the area safe, and does it offer the lifestyle I want?

3. Are there any cultural or legal considerations I need to prepare for?

4. Is the location suitable for my family or personal circumstances?

Trusting My Instinct

1. Does the school communicate clearly and professionally?

2. Did I feel respected and valued during the recruitment process?

3. Do I feel confident about this decision?