... just wanted to clarify a few points here...

1. Am a dual national (UK/Mauritius - non-caucasian) who has been working overseas in Mauritius (local hire) in an IS for 14 years
2. Therefore I'm no longer based in the UK and have no desire to return there in the foreseeable future
3. I lost my husband (also an educator) a few years ago so am now a single parent with two young kids
4. I am happy at the school (even though the package is laughable) and I enjoy the easygoing lifestyle here
5. My reasons for wanting to move on are partly financial (although I have no debts and a house as equity, I have no real savings as such) but also because I'm not happy with the secondary schooling options here for my kids (who are still in Primary but will be finishing soon)
6. As I said before, I'm not looking to earn top dollar - just looking for a welcoming, happy place to live and work where I would be happy to send my kids to school (with the added bonus of some saving potential)

Whilst I thank you for your comments PsyGuy, I understand that you're seeing things from the POV of an administrator (you made it very clear that my kids would be seen as a burden, especially in the light of the fact that I have no teaching partner..) Are you saying that the fact that I'm single +2 dependents will overshadow the fact that I have taught in an IS for so long, have heaps of experience and am a darn good teacher??

I'd love to hear some opinions and experiences of others (especially those in Africa/Asia) to help me sort out where to aim next...

... and Africa..? Tell me more about the certification PsyGuy! By quality of life I mean something like what I'm already used to (i.e. home help, outdoor living, great weather..) Thanks!

Hello - I have been following the forums and blogs with interest for a while and considering making the move to apply to different int'l schools.

I would like some objective opinions on my prospects for landing a post in either Asia, Europe, Africa or ME (Dubai), given my background:
- 14 years teaching exp in UK/Intl school in Africa (Primary 3-6 with English and Drama specialism) with excellent references
- British national
- Postgraduate Diploma in Education (UK)
- Single (widowed) with 2 kids (school-aged)

I am particularly interested to hear about when/how it would be best to contact schools, which fairs I would have most chance of being successful at, which areas/countries/schools would be difficult/easier to get into, and anything else that might help strengthen my application.

Package is less important than quality of life and a good standard of education for my kids. I would be looking to start a new post in Autumn 2013 (or sooner if the right opportunity comes along)

Any info gratefully received! :) [/list]