We had the privilege of chatting with Laura Wilson who is the Director at Engage Education Canada. Laura tells us about iday, which is a unique program created by Engage Education where teachers are invited and flown to the UK to interview for full-time teaching positions. She also provides us with a number of tips for teacher candidates!
Why have you chosen to work in the education sector?
I have always had a passion for education. I found Engage Education upon my own international teaching experience. They were able to assist me with my first full-time teaching position and the level of service they provided to me was excellent. There are hundreds of recruitment agencies around the world, but finding one that was able to cater to my needs was extremely important. I had such a positive experience whilst teaching in the UK, that it influenced me to want to pass this support on to other teachers looking for international teaching experience.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is being able to offer a unique program called iday in which teachers are actually taken to the UK to interview for full-time teaching positions. They have the opportunity to visit schools, meet the staff and teach a lesson before making a decision. It is extremely rewarding to stand back and view the process of initial interview; full application, iday and then finally seeing the candidate select a full-time teaching position in their actual subject area/level. Providing a platform for teachers to make informed decisions is incredibly rewarding.
What is the greatest challenge that you encounter within your role?
The greatest challenge would be informing teachers that international opportunities will progress their teaching career. Many Canadians are quite set on teaching in the communities they grew up in and are focused on their short term career rather than the long term goal. Teaching overseas is a fantastic stepping stone that allows you to gain valuable full-time international experience immediately upon completing your teacher training.
Has social media played a role in the recruitment process at your organization?
We have recently created our Facebook, Twitter and Linked In profiles to inform teachers about the fantastic teaching opportunities available to them outside of Canada. We are most interested in ensuring teachers understand their options and can therefore make informed choices. We visit every University in Canada and utilize social media to ensure everyone within the Faculty of Education is notified of where to find us, how to contact us and what the first steps are on the path to international teaching.
What types of positions do you find are the most difficult to recruit for?
The most difficult positions to recruit for are those outside of urban centers. Many Canadians are used to our lack of public transit and assume this is the same when in the UK. While in fact, many of the smaller towns/cities in the UK are much more accessible than even our large cities here in Canada. It is about having all the pieces of the puzzle before making a decision.
What is the most common mistake candidates make on their applications?
Most common mistakes are failing to include pertinent teaching related information such as grade level, courses taught and specific teaching techniques. The more concise information you can provide about yourself the better, as it helps to paint a picture as to what you are looking for and what you are capable of.
What is the number of times that would be appropriate for a candidate to follow up with their application/interview?
We have a very streamlined process when it comes to applications so that each step of the way, the candidate knows what to expect and what the next steps are. We always encourage our applicants to communicate with us throughout the application process. In most cases, we strive to follow up with an interview within a 1-2 week period and therefore it eliminates the unknown factor. Teachers know where they stand and if they are successful quite quickly.
What’s one thing you would want to tell to those applying for a job in the education sector?
Be clear about what you are looking for and what is important to you as a teacher. There are many different locations, schools and positions available in the education sector and it is important to find a position that is a good fit for you. I always think back to myself as a student and the teachers who were the most motivating and influential were those who were passionate about their job and about their classes. It is just as important to know what you want in an international teaching position and to know what you don’t want.
…and…finally:
What is your favourite apple-inspired food?
Apple Crisp! With extra brown sugar!
Thank you so much, Laura! We truly appreciate the time you’ve taken out of your busy schedule to share your advice and experience for those who are looking to work in the education sector. We look forward to hearing more about what Engage Education is up to and the programs you are creating to support teachers!
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