What information do prospective teachers look for on an International School website?
Let's assume that your website already has a good design: clear informative content, easy navigation, effective use of images that can be found by search engines or a link from one of the recruiting organizations. They should be able to find basic information about the school on your website. They will also be looking for some or all of the following information:
- shipping and shopping (eg.availability of household goods, cars, what to bring, customs and duty)
- accommodation ( types of accommodation, existing teachers impression, any temporary accommodation, settling in allowance, photos of accommodation)
- cost of living, currency issues, taxation, savings opportunities, is there a pension? can non working dependents get work? travel costs
- entertainment,what is there to do after school at weekends and short breaks? where do teachers go on holidays?what sports and cultural opportunities are there?
- health, general issues, insurance, dental, provision of clinics and basic services, specialist facilities
- security, what are the security issues?
- faculty profile: age, nationalities, mar. status
- families, teachers with children, entertainment for children - babies, teenagers, what schooling is available? is secondary available?
- spouse/partner, non working, employment opportunities, can families afford afford non working partner?
- professional development opportunities
- specific details of salaries and conditions can wait!
How can information for prospective teachers be shown on your international school website?
Here are some suggestions for showing recruitment information on your website:
- FAQ's: a list of frequently asked questions
- video
- photos or photo galleries: school facilities, accommodation
- downloads: handbooks, orientation materials
- teacher's email -direct contact or specified mentors
- teachers voices - testimonies from current faculty (as honest as possible)
- links to resources,on your website, outside e.g. embassies, tourist offices
Remember that your website is readily available and up dateable as jobs get filled or new employment opportunities are available.
For advice about improving your website for recruitment purposes or developing your website further please contact us.
