Teaching Doesn’t Have to End Here: Why Going International Could Be Your Next Step!

Having recently attended the PHASE conference in Bangkok and earlier this year the FOBISIA conference in Manila, I was reminded of the amazing network of PE educators around the world. These conferences showed just how valuable it is to share challenges and celebrate successes with like-minded colleagues.

Teaching PE in the UK is rewarding, but it’s no secret that it’s also tough. Budget cuts, growing class sizes, and endless admin can make it feel like you’re always running uphill. The pressure to meet targets and keep up with curriculum changes can lead to burnout, making even the most passionate teachers question if there’s a better way. So rather than lose this expertise, perhaps the international scene would help support teachers who are considering a change of profession to stick with it. 

Why Teach Overseas?

If you’re feeling the strain, teaching internationally might be exactly what you need. It’s not just about swapping one school for another—it’s about rediscovering your love for teaching PE and sport in a completely new setting.

Share Your Skills with the World

UK PE teachers are some of the best-trained educators out there, and international schools know it. Taking your skills abroad doesn’t mean leaving them behind—it means making an impact on a global scale:

• Top-Notch Safeguarding: UK teachers are known for their high safeguarding standards. Teaching abroad lets you bring that expertise to new environments, helping create safe and supportive spaces for students.
• Modern Coaching Techniques: You’ve experience with cutting-edge coaching and sport science methods. Bringing those to international schools can transform PE and sports programmes—and you’ll pick up some new ideas along the way.
• Adaptability: Teaching in the UK has prepared you to handle anything. That flexibility is priceless when working with students from different cultures and backgrounds.

More Than Just a Job Change

Teaching PE abroad isn’t just a career move—it’s can be life-changing experience:

• New Sports and Traditions: Imagine swapping rounders for T-ball or introducing students to cricket for the first time. You’ll learn about new sports and teaching methods, expanding your own skill set while sharing your passion.
• Adventure and Travel: Weekends and holidays become chances to explore new countries, join local sports events, or even coach in different settings. The memories and connections you’ll make are priceless.
• Better Work-Life Balance: Many international schools put a big focus on staff well-being. That means more time to enjoy what you do, both in and out of school.
• Build a Global Network: International teaching opens up a whole new world of connections. Organisations like FOBISIA encourage networking, CPD, and the sharing of best practices – you’ll meet colleagues from around the world who share your passion.

Rediscover Your Passion for PE and Sport

Your skills as a UK PE teacher are in demand all over the world. Teaching abroad doesn’t mean giving up – it means growing. You’ll bring your knowledge, enthusiasm, and love for sport to new students, making a real difference. And in the process, perhaps you’ll remember why you fell in love with teaching PE in the first place.

Two sides of the coin 

Before you sell the house, rehome the dog and book the flights, it is important to consider that international teaching is not for everyone. You definitely need a sense of adventure in taking the risk and you also need to consider how much you may miss your home and your family. Many international teachers end up repatriating and returning to the UK to be closer to loved ones. If you have children, the benefits of international schooling can be fabulous but for some the provision may also not be quite right. If you have children who need specific SEN provision it is important that you choose the right school. In some schools, children can be left behind, ostracised and deeply unhappy. 

There are many schools that claim to be international schools so make sure you do your research. Check your package carefully, ensure you understand your tax obligations and find out what your benefits are. Do you get annual flights, health insurance and an accommodation allowance? These benefits can differ hugely between schools. 

Ready for the Next Step?

If you are considering leaving PE teaching in the UK, it doesn’t have to be the end of your story—it could be the beginning of something incredible. International opportunities let you explore new cultures, learn new sports, and fall back in love with teaching, all while making a global impact.

Thankfully there is support out there to help you find the right school. PE Scholar have some incredible contacts across the globe and organisations like FOBISIA quality control member schools and even provide virtual recruitment fairs .

So, if you’re feeling burned out, don’t give up – take your passion for PE and sport internationally. It’s a new adventure and it means we don’t lose you from the profession completely.