Bali, Indonesia

Private School
1. How many years have you been teaching abroad?
I’ve been teaching for 4 years now.
2. How to apply abroad and what are the requirements and qualifications?
I applied via email. These are the requirements:

 A degree in the subject you are teaching (Secondary) or an appropriate education degree
(Primary)
 A teaching qualification/certification
 A minimum of 5 years teaching experience (from the time your degree was obtained)

3. How did you adjust abroad? Is it worth it to leave your family in the Philippines?
The first night was the most difficult. Back in the Philippines, I used to stay with my parents’
house. I have lived with them my entire life so the first night in a new place on my own was filled
with fear and tears. Imagine yourself in a room by yourself wherein fact I have never slept by
myself because I used to stay with my younger sister. But I have to be strong for myself and of
course for my parents, so that they will not worry about me. But eventually, I need to accept my
new life. I cannot speak their language (Bahasa Indonesia) so it is a bit struggle to communicate
with the local people. So I got myself a dictionary and downloaded some apps so I can study
Bahasa Indonesia. I talk to more locals so I can apply what I’ve learned from those apps. After 4
years, I think I am good at it. I guess. I think I have adjusted after a year. I also want to be
independent and to do things on my own. So I guess that helped me to live my life abroad, away
from home.
Is it worth it?
Yes and No. But I just want to give the best for my family. I can do anything for them. It will be
worth it in the end.
4. Are there similarities or differences among teachers in terms of the standard requirements
for a professional teacher?
Yes there are some similarities. But they don’t have to take exams for them to be a licensed teacher.
They just need to apply for a certificate to be a class teacher/adviser. Also, I have noticed that here
in Indonesia, all local teachers even if they are working in a private institution, they are still strictly
under the direct supervision of the government.
5. Are Filipino teachers comparable to their fellow teachers in other countries?
Yes. I have received the best training in the Philippines and I can say that all Filipino teachers
abroad are doing their jobs excellently and beyond what is expected of them. Filipino teachers are
caring, creative, persistent, diligent and hardworking. We don’t give up easily and we make sure
that we give our best at all times.
6. How would you prepare to become a global teacher of the 21st century?
As a global teacher, one must be able to equip himself/herself with knowledge about the new trends
in education. In this fast changing world, our role as a teacher will either make or break our
students. We have a great impact on the lives of our students; each student is capable of doing
something great, and be agents of change. We need to keep up with the new generation of students
so we can hone them to be future leaders of our nation.
Being a global teacher of the 21st century is beyond being up to date with the latest technology, it
is more of being aware of the needs of the students. A global teacher who knows the needs of
his/her students, preparing them for the future, and for the real world.