First Year Teaching Abroad: What to Expect at an International School

ITP - 126 If you're even thinking about teaching in Kuwait, you need to listen to this episode. Seriously. Greg sits down with Terence Tong—an international educator with 24 years of experience—and they dive into what it’s really like making the move from Canada to teaching overseas in Kuwait, South Korea, and then back to Kuwait for a second experience.. Terence opens up about the highs, the challenges, and the lessons learned along the way. We talk about everything from cultural differences and job fairs to tutoring in Kuwait and the evolving makeup of international schools. Terence also gets into the heart of what it means to find community abroad, why Kuwait is a safe and family-friendly place, and how to make the most of life overseas. Plus, he shares a few cultural stories and tips that any future international teacher will appreciate. This one’s packed with practical insights and real talk. Don't miss it. __________ (00:00) Introduction (01:33) Background and Early Career in Education (04:11) Transition to International Teaching in Kuwait (10:15) Experiences and Challenges in Kuwait (13:08) Growth and Development in International Education (16:58) Job Fair Experiences and Career Decisions (22:46) Cultural Differences in Education (32:01) Tutoring Dynamics in Kuwait (35:27) The Complexities of Tutoring (37:50) Demographics and Dynamics in Kuwaiti Schools (40:10) Cultural Integration and Community Connections (46:18) Safety and Family Life in Kuwait (48:36) Embracing New Experiences and Opportunities (51:49) Personal Essentials for International Living (56:35) Customs and Cultural Stories (01:01:33) Encouragement for Aspiring International Educators The International Teacher Podcast is a bi-weekly discussion with experts in international education. New Teachers, burned out local teachers, local School Leaders, International school Leadership, current Overseas Teachers, and everyone interested in international schools can benefit from hearing stories and advice about living and teaching overseas. Additional Gems Related to Our Show: Greg’s Favorite Video From Living Overseas - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQWKBwzF-hw Signup to be our guest https://calendly.com/itpexpat/itp-interview?month=2025-01 Our Website⁠ - https://www.itpexpat.com/ Our FaceBook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/itpexpat ⁠JPMint Consulting Website - https://www.jpmintconsulting.com/ Greg’s Personal YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLs1B3Wc0wm6DR_99OS5SyzvuzENc-bBdO Books By Gregory Lemoine: ⁠"International Teaching: The Best-kept Secret in Education"⁠ | by Gregory Lemoine M.Ed. ⁠"Finding the Right Fit: Your Professional Guide for International Educator Recruiting Fairs and Amazing Stories of a Teacher Living Overseas⁠" |by Gregory Lemoine M.Ed. Partner Podcasts: Just to Know You: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/just-to-know-you/id1655096513Educators Going Global: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educators-going-global/id1657501409 Relative Hashes: #internationalteachersday #internationaleducation #overseaseducation #internationalschools #education #teacherburnout #teachersalarynews #teachersalary #teacherrecruitments #overseaseducatorfairs