Making the move to an international school can be difficult if you don’t know what success looks like in international contexts.  

To help you make the move easier, we asked a former international headteacher what leaders are looking for in candidates, what specific skills stand out and top tips for success.  

Professional skills headteachers at international schools look for in candidates 

Each school and headteacher will naturally have their own requirements from candidates â€“ however, here are a few common things that a headteacher at an international school may be looking for, according to a former international headteacher. 

Strong professional credentials 

Whilst teaching qualifications differ by country, most international schools will still require a recognised teaching qualification, such as Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), underpinned by ongoing professional development, such as academic qualifications like an iPGCE. 

Pedagogical excellence 

High-quality teaching remains the foundation of a strong application. This includes clear explanations, purposeful practice and effective checking for understanding to ensure students make progress. 

Demonstrable impact 

International schools value teachers who can show the difference they have made. Use student outcomes, assessment data, examples of student work and measurable improvements to demonstrate your impact. 

Curriculum alignment 

Experience with the school's curriculum, whether IB, British, American or another international framework, is highly valued. If you are transitioning to a new curriculum, show how you are preparing to make that move successfully. 

Safeguarding judgement 

You should have clear boundaries, sound decision-making and an unwavering commitment to child protection. It’s vitally important to understand that processes differ across countries, but standards must not. 

Inclusive practice

Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) experience, skilful differentiation and confidence work with learning support teams are particularly valuable skills where schools are focusing on inclusive provision. 

EAL/ELL experience 

Training and experience in supporting students learning English as a foreign language is a standout skill in international contexts. You should be able to demonstrate language development whilst keeping ambition high – access and excellence travel together. 

Digital fluency 

Purposeful use of technology to enhance learning, alongside an understanding of online safety and data privacy, is an increasingly important skill in international settings. 

Behaviours and attributes that help you thrive internationally 

When putting together your application for international schools, bear in mind some of the key behaviours and personal attributes that leaders are looking for and be sure to highlight them: 

Commitment and stamina 

International school leaders are looking for teachers that will settle well and contribute consistently. They also often expect teachers to contribute beyond their timetabled lessons. Involvement in clubs, trips, pastoral initiatives and co-curricular activities shows a willingness to support the wider life of the school. 

Collaborative practice 

The strongest candidates contribute to the success of the whole school, not just their own classroom. They work effectively with colleagues, share expertise and respond positively to feedback and coaching. 

Pastoral leadership 

Experience in tutoring, house systems, wellbeing provision and safeguarding understanding demonstrate that you can hold both high expectations and pastoral care in the same hand. 

Leadership capacity 

Whether through mentoring colleagues, leading initiatives or driving curriculum development, demonstrating the ability to influence others and contribute to school improvement can help candidates stand out. 

Cultural awareness 

International schools bring together people from different backgrounds and cultures. Leaders value teachers who communicate thoughtfully, embrace different perspectives and help build a sense of belonging across the school community. 

Relocation readiness 

Schools want reassurance that candidates have considered the realities of an international move. Showing that you are prepared for the practical and professional aspects of relocation can demonstrate that you are likely to settle successfully and make a sustained contribution. 

Tips for success from a former international headteacher

1. Write for this school, not any school: reflect the mission, values and curriculum with specificity, showing you understand the community you are joining, not simply the role you are applying for.  

2. Lead with impact: explain what improved because of your work progress, attainment, engagement and belonging. This should be supported by concise evidence and clear professional reflection.  

3. Articulate a purposeful ‘why international’: anchor your motivation in contribution and professional growth. Leaders can quickly spot when the narrative is primarily lifestyle-led.  

4. Own the transition story: if you are moving phases, curricula or countries, be explicit about how you are already closing the gap through study, observation, training and deliberate practice.  

5. Be reference-ready: recruitment timelines move quickly. Ensure referees can speak to your impact, professionalism and safeguarding practice with clarity and confidence. 

Be international-ready with ÌÇÐÄVlog Institute’s iPGCE 

If you’re teaching in an international school and want to improve the quality of your classroom practice, develop effective subject knowledge and pedagogy within the context of international school systems, and gain a globally recognised postgraduate qualification (60 UK level 7 credits), our iPGCE could be ideal for you. 

Learn more