Aimee Fleming
- Age: 25
- Address: Strood, Kent
- Work: Secondary PE, Rainham School for Girls
- From: Christchurch, Canterbury
What kind of experience were you looking for in the UK and did you get it?
Working in a stable teaching job, earning reasonable salary to travel.
What helped you settle in once you arrived in the UK?
Having accommodation and a job sorted before I arrived. Having transport instructions as to how to get to work.
What type of living accommodation are you living in? How did you find it?
TimePlan organised for me prior to moving in, living in a shared house, live-in Landlord, very cruisy and cheap. No problems what so ever.
How did you find the cost of living compared to home? What tips would you give teachers to help them make the most of their British pounds?
I found the cost of living cheap mostly and cheaper to live out of London for sure but a lot quieter. Tip - Sort out young persons travel card early to get cheap fares into London Town.
What are your favourite inexpensive things to do in the UK?
I like to head into London on the weekend. It's also great to head out to Blue Water (shopping mall) for a shop.
What have been the highlights for you so far?
Travel – European Contiki
Did you get a chance to travel outside of the UK? If so where did you go?
Ireland, France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Venice, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Holland, New York and Singapore.
How has this overseas experience affected you professionally and personally?
It has given me loads more teaching experience and endless opportunities to see the rest of the world, and meet so many new people.
Has your experience advanced you professionally?
Definitely…it will be good to go back with a couple more years experience in a teaching job.
What have you learnt in the British education system that you would apply at home?
Clubs are endless. There are loads of opportunities for students to get involved in sport after school.
What did TimePlan do well?
They sorted out any money issues when needed, and organise my accommodation.
What advice would you offer to other teachers interested in teaching in the UK?
Don’t expect to save much money……the travel swallows every penny ? But its well worth it!
What top tips would you offer teachers who are new to the UK?
If you want to save money to travel, living out of London is the best way to do this. If you want to enjoy the city buzz and have a fantastic time during the week, and travel cheaply move into London Town.