Teacher Profiles - USA
Molly Hayes
- Age: 24
- Address: West Croydon, Surrey
- Qulaifications: Bachelor of Arts (Elementary Education)
- Work: Long Term teaching position
- From: Chicago, Illinois
Why did you decide to teach in the UK?
Why not? It is in Europe! You get the opportunity to meet different people and see different cultures. There are different experiences at your fingertips. Working in education in England’s system means that you get an education of different people and cultures.
What kind of teaching experience were you looking for and are you getting it?
I was looking for a long-term teaching position in Year 1. I thought I would need more of support from the school to become well adjusted. I have received that support from the school, teachers and TimePlan. I have never felt “in the dark” because there is always someone to talk to.
How was your transfer to the UK?
When I arrived in London, I was nervous. TimePlan set me up with pleasant accommodation and they met with me for an interview to help me get more settled with the bank, transport and cell phone, among other things. The Surrey office was very helpful, and went out of their way to help me.
What are you enjoying most?
I enjoy learning, and seeing the way English schools are run and being able to compare it to teaching in the US. They are pretty similar. In the beginning it was overwhelming, but people were supportive.
Top Tip?
Bring one item from your home country that you can share with your class. Get to know other people in the program, as your main networking is done at the start. Be flexible, things are not always going to run smoothly.
Thomas Crawford
- Age: 26
- Address: Poplar (near Canary Wharf), London
- Qulaifications: A Bachelor of Education (Elementary) specialising in Math
- Work: Long Term teaching position
- From: New York
- Position: Support teacher for years three to six
What University did you study at?
State University of New York at Old Westbury.
Why did you decide to teach in the UK?
I did my teacher training here in the UK at Bath and loved it. I love Europe; it is very different to the United States. I like the National Curriculum, where the whole country is learning at the same pace and level compared to each State having a different standard at home. I have been described as very cosmopolitan, so I am really enjoying living in London.
What kind of teaching experience were you looking for and are you getting it?
I enjoy working with small groups and as a support teacher, so I am generally getting a positive experience.
How was your transfer to the UK?
My flight was fine, getting from the airport was a little daunting but I arrived safely. Setting up a bank account seems a little slow compared to home and there isn’t as much instant electronic bank information available. It is just something that you have to get used to though.
What are you enjoying most?
I am learning a lot about the Muslim culture because the school I am working in is all Bangladeshi students. They have Arabic classes during the day and I have learnt a lot about their culture. I like living and teaching in London and I am at a really great school with awesome staff.
Top Tip?
Start saving and do it! It is a great opportunity and if you don’t get over here you might never get the chance again.
Larissa Heap
- Age: 26
- Address: Stratford, London
- Qulaifications: Bachelor of Arts in English, Bachelor Music in Music Education and a teacher’s certification
- Work: I am currently teaching Secondary English to year 7 through
- From: Royal Oak, Michigan
What University did you study at?
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
Why did you decide to teach in the UK?
Teaching in the UK is an amazing life experience and an incredible way for me to spend my first year of teaching. I’ve spent a lot of time in England and was really interested in living and working here. I found TimePlan on the Monster.com website.
What kind of teaching experience were you looking for and are you getting it?
I really didn’t know what to expect, especially considering I am a first year teacher. In addition, I’m teaching my secondary subject which I am less comfortable with. However, I am teaching in an amazingly supportive environment. Though at times things have been difficult, I think I am really lucky to be where I am.
How was your transfer to the UK?
I came to the UK about a month before I started teaching in order to find accommodation. I found my flat in a free-ads newspaper called, Loot. I am living in a two-bedroom flat, 15 minutes walk from the school with a friend of mine from home.
What are you enjoying most?
I enjoy getting to know my students and being able to actually see their progress. Their achievements light up my days!
Top Tip?
I would say leaving home is not easy, but well worth it. The educational system here is different but I'm learning as I go. I know once I have done this, I will be able to do anything. It is a huge growing experience. Not only that, for the rest of my life I will be able to say, “I taught in London!” how exciting is that?!