Emma-Kate Hall
- Age: 25
- Address: Dubai, UAE
- Qualifications: B. Ed (Primary)
- From: East London, South Africa
Why did you choose to come to the UK?
Moving to the UK allowed me to start my independence as a newly qualified “adult”. Along with this independence, my goal was to gain experience and develop my skills and qualities as a teacher. Experiencing different countries and different people was high on the agenda. Exploring different avenues soon became a new option, and I found myself having developed an interest in Education Recruitment in London.
How did you hear about TimePlan?
I attended a presentation that Karen Gamblin presented at Rhodes University (now Fort Hare University) when I was in my fourth, and final year of Education.
How was your transfer to the UK?
Simplified; thanks to the South African office of TimePlan. This welcoming experience continued as I was transferred to the Surrey office to begin my experiences.
What helped you settle in once you arrived in the UK?
I was lucky to have my sister and her husband living in London (Windsor). TimePlan gave me the support that I initially needed and teaching system was a good challenge!
What type of living accommodation did you live in?
Initially I shared a flat with an eclectic group of people in Putney, London. I moved when things needed to change, and ended off sharing with three other South African girls. I found my niche in Putney, so I always stayed within the area.
What did you enjoy most while in the UK?
The opportunities are endless. One just needs to be patient, prepared to work hard and wait for the right one to come along. Things may seem difficult at times, if you’re not in the position you would like to be, but the little you learn, the more you gain! Make the UK work for you, and not the other way around!
What did you miss about being away from home?
The simplicity of life (my car, my shops), and the support of my family. The beautiful weather was constantly on my mind! At the end of my London experience, I had most of my friends in London (and still do) so that was wonderful! Pity I left them all behind when I decided to move to Dubai!
What will you miss when you return home?
The easy access to travel, the friends that I’ve made from all over the world and the endless opportunities.
Having now taught in the UK, what is your opinion about British schools?
The schools differ, according to the area that you are teaching in. I believe that teaching at any school would be great, no matter what socio-economic background, if you have a supportive and friendly staff to work with. The school building is just the shell.
What advice would you offer to other teachers interested in teaching in the UK?
Do your research! It is so often that South African teachers arrive in the UK and know nothing of the UK curriculum, school procedures and ages of year groups, etc. Schools appreciate you having taken the time to compare things in South Africa and deliver in a UK school environment.
What top tips would you offer teachers who are new to the UK?
Settling in will be tiring, but remember that it all gets easier as each day passes! Making as many friends as possible is the key. TimePlan socials are always the best way to meet new (like-minded) people, and you can expand your circle of friends from there. Take one step at a time, and you’ll get to the settled-in phase of life in the UK. Do what you do best well, and make a name for yourself!