Hardship Postings: Not for the Faint of Heart, But Perfect for You?

Don’t let the name scare you off just yet. While these positions offer unique challenges, they can also unlock incredible experiences and professional growth. An international school hardship posting refers to a teaching position at an international school that is considered to be more challenging (or less desirable) than a typical posting. What one person considers a hardship, another might find appealing. It all depends on individual preferences and priorities.

No international school is perfect. There will always be compromises, like great weather paired with lower salaries, or exciting city life balanced by expensive housing. However, hardship postings often present a combination of challenging factors that can significantly impact day-to-day life.

Common examples include:

• A Remote Location: The school might be located in a remote area with limited access to amenities, cultural activities, or travel opportunities. These schools can often be set up to serve a company’s employees and families such as a mining company operating in a remote location.
• Limited Resources: The school might have fewer resources compared to other international schools, such as limited technology, outdated facilities, or smaller libraries.
• Difficult Living Conditions:

Extreme temperatures: Some countries experience scorching heat or intense cold, making daily life uncomfortable.

Increased risk of weather-related hazards: Certain regions might be prone to droughts, floods, or intense storms, disrupting daily routines and causing potential safety concerns.

Limited medical facilities: Remote locations may lack access to well-equipped hospitals or specialized care. Many schools in remote areas will offer evacuation to another location if a serious medical situation arises. Shortage of qualified medical personnel: Finding doctors or specialists with the necessary training or experience can be difficult.

Roads: Maybe in poor condition, or the locals may drive differently from what you’re used to

Public transport: Maybe overcrowded and unsafe.

• Political or Economic Instability: The country where the school is located might be experiencing some form of political unrest or economic hardship. For example: we were evacuated from Egypt due to the Arab Spring uprising. When we left for Egypt it was considered a safe place to live. Places can change without a lot of warning.

Why Would Someone Choose a Hardship Posting?

While hardship postings come with challenges, they can also offer some potential benefits:

• Higher Salary: International schools often offer higher salaries for hardship postings to compensate for the challenges.
• Faster Career Advancement: Due to the difficulty of filling these positions, teachers may find faster career advancement opportunities in hardship locations.
• Unique Cultural Experience: Living in these locations can offer a more immersive and authentic cultural experience.
• Close Connection to Community:  Hardship posts bring people together because of the difficulty of the location.  You often make lifelong friends who also provide much support.
• Saving Potential:  You will often have a high saving potential because of the likelihood of a higher salary and limited options for discretionary spending.

Read about Tracy Olorenshaw who left a fantastic job in New Zealand to embark upon her African adventure with her husband Olly, opening their eyes to a world of differences and the fact that kids are kids wherever you go.

General perceptions of regions of the world

Western Europe: Prestige with Pitfalls

• Pros: Top salaries, renowned cultural destinations.
• Cons: Competitive, late recruiting, high living costs, minimal savings potential.

Eastern Europe: A Rising Star

• Similarities to Western Europe: Rich history and culture.
• Upsides: Lower salaries, cost of living, and taxes compared to Western counterparts.
• Downsides: Fewer schools compared to Western Europe.

Latin America: Affordability with Challenges

• Considerations: Lower salaries, import tariffs inflating living costs.

Africa: A Continent of Diverse Opportunities

• Realities: Salary range varies, high living costs, safety concerns in some regions.
• Health Considerations: Malaria and other tropical illnesses are a concern in some regions.
• Limited Infrastructure: Public transportation might be less developed compared to other locations.
• Navigating Bureaucracy: Unfamiliarity with local regulations and procedures can be an obstacle.

It’s important to note that these are general considerations, and the situation varies greatly across the continent. Many international schools in Africa offer excellent support systems and resources to help teachers navigate these challenges.

East Asia: Academic Focus with Environmental Concerns

• Salary Spectrum: Ranges from average to high.
• Cost of Living: Varies, with Japan being the most expensive and China (outside major cities) offering lower costs.
• Student Strengths: Known for exceptional work ethic.
• Environmental Issues: Pollution can be a significant factor. The upside is a country like China which has dramatically reduced its pollution levels and now gets 50% of its energy needs from renewables.

Southeast Asia: Paradise with Practicalities

• Desirable Features: Stunning scenery, affordable living and opportunities for travel within the country.
• Salary Considerations: Ranges from low to average. Singapore is an exception with both high salaries and living costs.

South Asia: Affordability Meets Challenges

• Financial Perks: Low living costs can be attractive.
• Potential Concerns: Pollution and safety (especially for women) can be significant factors.

MENA (Middle East & North Africa): A Region of Variety

• Salary and Cost of Living: Varies across the region, with higher figures in the Persian Gulf.
• School Landscape: More for-profit schools compared to other areas.
• Considerations: Student behavior and cultural adjustment might require adaptation.

Finding Out About Hardship Postings

Search Associates has schools in locations worldwide. Some are located in the US and UK but the majority are in non-English speaking countries.

Not all international school job listings explicitly state whether a position is considered a hardship posting. Here are some ways to find out:

• Read the Job Description Carefully: Look for details about the school’s location, resources, and surrounding community.
  • Research the Location: Investigate the country and city where the school is located to understand the potential challenges.
  • Ask the School: If you’re interested in a specific position, reach out to the school to inquire about any hardship considerations.

Ultimately, the decision to accept a hardship posting is a personal one. Weigh the challenges against the potential benefits to determine if it’s the right fit for you. Many experienced international school teachers often regard their hardship post as the most rewarding and interesting of their career.