More than 600 educators compete for top international teaching jobs

In Princeton, New Jersey, on December 5, 2024, International Schools Services (ISS) hosted its first virtual job fair of the recruitment season, which attracted over 600 educators interested in job opportunities within international schools. This event is indicative of a growing trend among educators who are exploring careers beyond their home countries, particularly in the international education sector. The surge in interest can be linked to the increasing quality of international schools, appealing financial packages for teachers and their families, as well as positive teaching environments. The ISS EDUrecruit® iFair® serves as a platform for educators to directly engage with school recruiters from various countries such as those from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and South America. While the virtual format reduces the necessity for travel and provides accessibility, ISS officials have noted that in-person events are still highly favored due to the more interactive and personable nature of face-to-face conversations. Upcoming job fairs are set to take place in Atlanta, GA, in December 2024, and in Washington, DC, in February 2025, indicating strong confidence in continued high participation rates. The professional requirements for these positions typically include experience in programs like International Baccalaureate (IB), Advanced Placement (AP), AERO, Common Core, and IGCSE/GCSE, along with at least two years of relevant teaching experience. This requirement emphasizes the caliber of candidates these international schools seek. Additionally, the ISS EDUrecruit® events enrich the job fair experience by integrating professional development workshops that focus on the latest educational trends and pedagogical strategies. Given the logistics of hiring for international positions, the recruitment cycle for these roles occurs earlier than the traditional hiring schedules in the U.S. This early timing is beneficial for both schools wanting to secure talent and educators eager to explore these opportunities. As noted by Liz Duffy, President of ISS, the growing trend in international education employment can be attributed to the quality of the institutions participating in these job fairs and the substantial benefits offered, which seem increasingly attractive to educators looking for new experiences in their teaching careers.