Wendy-Lee Birkholtz
- Age: 25
- Address: Great Yarmouth, Norfolk
- Qualifications: Bachelor of Education (Foundation Phase)
- From: Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Why did you decide to Teach in the UK?
I wanted to travel and experience life in the UK. I have previously taught in a few other countries. I find that I learn a lot about people's cultures when I work and live in their country.
What kind of experience were you looking for in the UK and did you get it?
Before I came over, I had heard that it can sometimes be quite a challenge to teach in UK schools as the children are not as disciplined as back home. I haven't experienced much of this as I have been lucky enough to be placed in some great schools.
How was your transfer to the UK?
TimePlan is great! I didn’t have to worry about a thing. I was collected at the airport and dropped off right at my front door. My room was ready for me and an information pack was at my house with all necessary information. The day after my arrival, I was contacted by a TimePlan representative to ask if everything was okay. I started working within a few days of my arrival.
What helped you to settle into the UK?
The fact that TimePlan was so organised meant that I never felt lost or uncertain. I brought photos of friends and family and put them up in my room, which helped me to not feel so far away from them. A big box of Rooibos tea from home helped me settle in too!
What do you enjoy most in the UK?
I enjoy the travelling and meeting new people. At the TimePlan socials, you get to meet all the other TimePlanners. It's great to become friends with other teachers from all sorts of countries. I have already been invited to visit some of them back in their home countries for holidays.
What do you miss about being away from home?
Well, coming from South Africa, I would say... The SUNSHINE!!!!! I also missed speaking Afrikaans, my church, braais, biltong and some other SA foods. Luckily, if you live in or close to London, you can easily buy some of the foods from home and hear your home language all around you!
What will you miss when you leave the UK?
I will miss the pub lunches, the travelling, living with cool housemates and the British friends I have made.
What advice would you offer other South African Teachers making this move?
- Don't bring too much stuff with you as you will buy a lot here and you will want to take it back home!
- Don't just make friends from your own country.
- Buy an A to Z of London (or wherever you’re staying) ASAP
- If you need the internet, TimePlan and the libraries have it for free. *Don't be shy to ask questions or to ask for help if you need it.
- Don't be shy to ask questions or to ask for help if you need it.
- Travel within the UK as well as to Europe - Often people only travel to Europe and they miss out on the beauty of the UK.
- When British people invite you for "tea" they actually mean the evening meal... I had to eat dinner twice in one evening because I thought I was invited for a cup of tea and not for dinner!...oops!
- Bring your camera!!!!!!!
- Have FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!