Check list to living and teaching in the UK

1. Register with Axcis through the website www.axcis.co.uk/register

An up to date two page Word CV is very important and any other details you can confirm now, ie, date of arrival, location, Visa etc.

2. Right to Work Application

To work in the UK you need to have some form of clearance. You may be entitled to a Working Holiday, Ancestral, Right of Abode or Spouse Visa. Check with your countries Home Office to find out what you are entitled to and start the application.

If you are not entitled to any of these Visa/clearances, then you would need to gain a Work Permit to work in the UK. Schools are able to apply for a WP for a teacher as teaching is an occupation that has a shortage. See the Axcis website for more information on WP’s and Visa.

3. Location

Axcis has positions in England, Wales and Scotland. Within England, London is a very popular place for overseas teachers to come to, and there is a great need for teachers here. Decide where you would like to be and consider the time taken to travel, especially across London.

4. Update your Application with Axcis

Once you have gathered the above information, you may wish to alter some of the information you initially gave us. You can do this either by logging into the website and updating your details, or sending an email to us. The more information we have from you, the easier it is for us to find a job that meets your needs.

5. Arrange Interview date with Axcis

Let us know a date and time that would suit you to come in for an interview with us when you arrive

We are based right in the middle of London, so we are very accessible. You can confirm an interview time with us before you leave, or we can arrange one upon your arrival – which ever is easiest for you.

6. Gather Documentation

You will need to bring with you either the originals or certified copies of the following documents; qualifications, passport, right to work (ie, Working Holiday/Ancestral/Spouse Visa) and home country Police Clearance (less than 6 months old). You do not need to send these to us now, we will site and take copies of these when you come in for an interview with us.

7. Travel

Book your travel plans in advance to avoid disappointment. It is a good idea to consider the school term dates in the UK, so that you are not surprised to find you have arrived during the six week summer holiday break for example!

8. Accommodation

Many overseas teachers choose to stay with friends and family initially until they find more long term accommodation or perhaps remain flexible to job locations. There are several hostels in London, and websites for finding flats and houses.

9. Bank Accounts

We can help you to set up a UK bank account. You will need a statement from your bank in your home country that is less than 3 months old and your passport. (Nb. Statement must be original, no faxes or photocopies accepted)

10. Mobile Phones

Mobile phones are essential – in London you spend more time out and about than next to your landline, so a mobile phone ensures you don’t miss any job opportunities. We can then also give you on the spot directions to news schools and you can let us know if you need any help.

If you are bringing your own mobile to the UK, we offer free SIM cards (Virgin Network) for teachers who have been in for an interview in our London office. Don’t forget to ask for yours!

11. National Curriculum Research

Schools in the UK are very similar to schools in other countries. However, it is important to know the NC for the UK and some of the terminology used. See the Axcis website for links to resources, including the UK National Curriculum website and other useful sites for planning schemes of work and how schools are run in the UK.

12. Regular Updates

Once you have these things sorted out, you are well on your way to establishing yourself in the UK. Several teachers travel to the UK to travel to Europe and other places. If you are wanting to travel regularly let us know – you may wish to work in supply/term by term positions as opposed to permanent positions so that you have more flexibility. We are here to help you find a position that suits you, so let us know exactly what your requirements are.

If you need more information please let us know, email info@axcis.co.uk