If you’re thinking about starting a career as a teacher, you may want to research browsing opportunities for a private school teaching job. Whether you’re a veteran teacher looking for something different, a career changer, or a new college student who graduated, check out these four Manchester Tutors tips to help you find a private school job.
1. Start your job search early
Private schools generally do not follow a fast-track hiring process unless there’s an unexpected mid-year opening. It might surprise you to know that many private schools start their recruitment efforts as early as December for roles commencing in the fall. Teaching roles are usually filled by March or April, making it essential to submit your application early. However, this doesn’t mean opportunities won’t arise later in the year, as positions can still become available after the spring. Private school jobs peak in the winter. Check out the National Association of Private Schools Check out what job listings are posted. If there is a specific geographic location you would like to teach in, check out your state or local private school association as well.
2. Get Help Finding Private School Jobs: Use a Free Recruiter
Several companies work with candidates to help them find private school jobs. These companies help candidates find the right private schools to apply to and often know about positions before they are publicly posted. The bonus for job seekers is that the recruiter’s services are free. Once you are hired, the school picks up the tab. Many companies, such as Carney, Sandoe & Associates, can also host a conference for job hunting. These one-, two-, or sometimes three-day events allow you to participate in mini-interviews with school administrators from around the country. Think of it as speed dating for your career. These training sessions can be hit or miss, but because they are easy to plan, they can help you meet with schools you may not have investigated before. The worker recruitment staff will not only
And some of these companies aren’t just looking for teaching positions. Candidates interested in administrative positions may also benefit from these recruiting agencies, whether they want to be principals ( similar to principals for those unfamiliar with private schools).), Development Officers, Admissions officers, Marketing Director, or School Counselors, there are hundreds of listings. Similar to teaching positions, recruiters often know of open positions before they are advertised. Agencies also often have listings of positions that aren’t publicly posted. Sometimes it’s about who you know, and your recruiter probably “knows.” By building a personal relationship with you, the recruiter can effectively recommend you as a candidate. This is especially advantageous if you’re just starting in the industry, as their support can enhance your credibility and improve your chances of landing a job.
3. No teaching certificate is required.
Public schools typically require teachers to pass standardized tests to certify their teaching skills, but private schools do not necessarily. Many private school teachers have teaching licenses, but this is not usually a requirement. Most private schools look to their education, career and life experience, and natural teaching ability as qualifications. New private school tutors go through internship programs or work closely with former teachers to help them get used to this new educational path and learn as they go. This does not mean that private school tutors are not as highly qualified as average public school teachers, but it does mean that private schools do not rely on mandatory tests to determine a candidate’s expertise in the classroom.
This is also a common second career for many individuals who teach in private schools. For many professionals, even taking a standardized test can be daunting. This means that many qualified teacher candidates don’t even consider applying. Private schools use this opportunity to attract professionals who want to make a difference.Suppose you were learning physics from a former engineer who worked on a project at the International Space Station or studying economics from a professional financial advisor. These professionals bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom that can greatly boost the training environment for students. Admissions offices and marketing teams often love these second-career teachers because they make great stories for the school’s promotion, especially if the teacher has a non-traditional teaching style that engages students in learning. Do you think you fit that model?
4. Your hobbies can help you get a job
Private school teachers often do more than just teach. They also serve as advisors, mentors, club sponsors, coaches, and, in the case of boarding schools, boarding parents. That means there is an opportunity to excel in many ways, and years of teaching experience doesn’t always mean you win. Yes, you still need to be a highly qualified candidate, but having a variety of strengths can help a younger teacher candidate who can coach a varsity team overpower someone with more teaching experience but no coaching skills.
Were you a high school or college athlete? Do you play on a local sports team just for fun? Knowledge and experience in sports can make you more valuable to a school. The more experience you have in sports, the more valuable you are to a school. Perhaps you are a 1 to 1 English Tutor or a math teacher who enjoys writing. An interest in advising the student newspaper or participating in theater productions can make you more valuable to a school, which in turn can give you an advantage over candidates who are only good at teaching. Have you lived in several countries and speak several languages? Private schools value diversity and life experiences that can help teachers better connect with students from all over the world. Think about your experiences and activities and how they can help you become a stronger candidate.
In conclusion, securing a teaching job at a private school demanded advanced planning and proactive steps. Start your job search early, leverage the support of employer representatives, and highlight your unique qualifications, whether through your career background or extracurricular skills. Private schools value diverse experiences, making it crucial to demonstrate not only your teaching ability but also your passion for assistance and community participation.