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How to become a Teaching Assistant
What do I need to become a teaching assistant in the UAE? To become a teaching assistant in the UAE, you will typically need a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. Some schools may require additional qualifications, such as a teaching assistant certificate or relevant experience in education. It's also important to have a strong command of the English language, as many schools in the UAE use English as the primary language of instruction. One way to enhance your qualifications as a teaching assistant is to complete a teaching assistant training program. These programs provide valuable insights into the role of a teaching assistant and equip you with the necessary skills to support teachers and students effectively. Additionally, gaining experience through volunteer work or internships in educational settings can help you stand out to potential employers. What does a teaching assistant do? First and foremost, it's important to understand the responsibilities of a teaching assistant. The main role of a Teaching Assistant (also known as TA or Classroom Assistant) is to provide support and assistance to a teacher, making sure students are given all the help they need to get the most out of their education. The key duties of a TA will usually include, although not be limited to, the following: Providing support to children with mathematics, reading and writing on an individual, class or small group basis Proving one-on-one help to children who require it Giving further attention to children with any other special needs or requirements Motivating and encouraging pupils Supervising students at lunch, on events or trips and for special activities Taking care of various admin tasks, including preparing materials for lessons, photocopying, laminating and marking papers Is a career as a teaching assistant right for me? To be successful in this position, having a passion for working with children is essential, as well as a genuine interest in education. You will also need exceptional communication skills and must be able to motivate pupils who may sometimes be unruly or lack confidence. Other key skills and attributes include: A friendly and approachable nature Excellent reading, writing, numeracy and listening skills Flexibility and versatility Ability to build relationships with both staff and students, but also display a good level of discipline when required A passion for teaching Patience Career progression What’s the initial salary for a teaching assistant? The salary for a teaching assistant starts from AED 3000 and can go up to AED 6000 monthly. How long to go from a teaching assistant to a teacher? The eligibility to start teaching depends on existing qualifications and any additional credentials needed. For individuals with a B.Ed., they can commence teaching straight away. Otherwise, obtaining a teaching diploma, such as a PGCE, PGDE, or Cache level, is necessary. The duration of these programs varies, typically spanning from one to at least two years. What is the average salary for a teacher in Dubai? Teacher salaries in Dubai are dependent on various factors, including experience, qualifications, school type, and curriculum. On average, a teacher's salary can range from AED 10,000 to AED 20,000 per month. Please note that these figures are approximate and are subject to change. Additionally, teachers may receive extra benefits, such as accommodation, health insurance, tuition fee concessions, and annual flights to their home country. How to become a head teacher? Becoming a head teacher in Dubai involves obtaining a bachelor's degree in education or related fields, followed by optional master's degrees in educational leadership or administration. Accumulating teaching experience and progressing into leadership roles like department head or assistant principal is crucial to demonstrating effective leadership. Meeting certification and licensing requirements is necessary for eligibility. Applying for head teacher roles requires highlighting leadership experience and educational philosophy. Salary for a head teacher? Head teacher salaries in Dubai vary based on school type, experience, qualifications, and responsibilities. Typically higher than regular teachers, they range from around AED 25,000 to AED 40,000 monthly. Benefits like accommodation, health insurance, tuition fee concession and annual flights home may also be included, affecting the overall compensation package. If you are looking for the next step in your career or to hire for your school, contact one of our experts today.
Employee monitoring: a guide to best practices
Employee monitoring can help ensure productivity and accountability among employees, as managers can track their work progress and identify areas where improvement is needed. Monitoring enhances data security by detecting and preventing unauthorised access or data breaches and additionally, it enables you to adhere to regulatory and compliance requirements, reducing legal risks. The key thing to remember is that workplace surveillance is perfectly acceptable, as long as you can legally justify your reasons, and it is always better to be ‘overt’, not ‘covert’. A report shows that despite normality returning to working life post-pandemic, demand for employee surveillance software is 49% above 2019 levels. Our eBook, ‘Employee monitoring: a guide to best practices’, provides insight from top experts in the field including: Keith Rosser, Director of Group Risk and Reed Screening, Reed Hayfa Mohdzaini, Senior Research Adviser, CIPD By downloading this eBook, you will discover: What employee monitoring is Whether it's needed for your businessConsiderations for introducing workplace monitoring The benefits and drawbacks Potential impact of surveillance on the workforce Your duties as a responsible employer “Monitoring software that employees see as intrusive and unnecessary is more likely to erode mutual trust in the employment relationship. Employers need to show how using monitoring software can benefit employees, while respecting their privacy.” -Hayfa Mohdzaini, Senior Research Adviser, CIPD.
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Workplace monitoring: guidance for your organisation
In the past, workplace monitoring was relatively simplistic: employers relied on visual supervision and basic timekeeping systems, and the concept of privacy was limited.Fast forward to the digital age. Employee monitoring has reached new levels of sophistication and become common practice for employers seeking to boost productivity, enhance security, and ensure compliance with regulations.Improved productivity and deeper insightsWith the advancement of technology, including GPS tracking, computer monitoring software, and biometric identification systems, surveillance can provide employers with detailed insights into employee activities and performance.One of the key benefits of employee monitoring is the ability to track and improve productivity levels. By monitoring employees' activities, employers can identify inefficiencies, analyse workflow processes, and provide targeted feedback to enhance performance. This data-driven approach allows companies to optimise their operations, allocate resources effectively, and ultimately improve their bottom line.Monitoring can also help employers identify and address issues such as time theft, excessive breaks, and unauthorised activities in the workplace. With real-time monitoring tools, employers can detect irregularities and take corrective actions promptly, therefore improving accountability and integrity among employees.Employee monitoring can also aid in compliance with regulations and industry standards. By keeping a close eye on electronic communications, websites visited, and files accessed, employers can ensure that employees adhere to data protection laws, maintain confidentiality, and comply with company policies. This proactive approach minimises the risk of data breaches and security incidents and also protects the company from potential legal liabilities.Balancing surveillance and ethicsDespite the clear advantages of employee monitoring, it is crucial for organisations to approach this practice with sensitivity and respect for staff privacy. As a matter of course, employers should establish clear policies regarding monitoring practices, communicate openly with employees about the purpose and scope of monitoring, and ensure transparency in the use of monitoring tools.Prioritise the protection of sensitive employee data by implementing robust security measures, restricting access to monitoring data, and complying with data protection regulations such as GDPR. These considerations can ease employees’ minds about any surveillance and even instil appreciation for such measures. After all, workplace security is in everyone’s best interests.Download our best practice guide to employee monitoringOur eBook, ‘Employee monitoring: a guide to best practices’ provides insight into how employers might best integrate employee monitoring into their organisation, and considerations for what the impact may be on employees. With opinion from thought leaders, it addresses everything from pre-employment checks to the tracking tech that might be right your organisation.Looking to hire top talent for your organisation or to find your next dream role? Get in touch with one of our specialist consultants today.
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Temporary vs permanent teaching roles: which is best for you?
Whether you’re just starting out on your teaching career or considering your options midway through, both temporary and permanent teaching roles have much to offer in terms of personal and professional development. The deciding factor for many is often concerned with the impact an individual hopes to make in their career – whether they see a long future at a particular school or are drawn to the rich experiences that may lie in a series of temporary or supply teaching roles at different schools. Temporary teaching roles: flexibility and exploration Temporary teaching roles offer educators flexibility and variety in their careers. Whether it be covering maternity leave, sabbaticals, or filling short-term vacancies, these roles provide opportunities to gain diverse experiences across different schools, age groups, and subjects. For those craving new challenges and exposure to various teaching methodologies, temporary teaching, cover teaching or supply teaching positions – just some of terms by which short-term teaching goes by – can be immensely rewarding. Temporary (or temp) roles enable teachers to test the waters before committing to a long-term position. They offer a glimpse into different school cultures, leadership styles, and student demographics, allowing educators to discern their preferences and strengths. This exploratory phase can be invaluable for early-career teachers seeking to refine their teaching approach and identify their niche within the education sector. It may even be said that everyone should try supply teaching at some point in their teaching career. Such roles can strengthen resilience and help teachers adapt to diverse environments, navigate unexpected challenges, and quickly establish a rapport with students and colleagues. These experiences enrich professional skill sets and cultivate a broader perspective on education. However, temp roles come with some uncertainties, such as job insecurity and lack of long-term stability. While it is highly unlikely in the current climate – unless you are inflexible when it comes to your working location – teachers may face periods of unemployment between assignments, necessitating financial planning and resilience to withstand potential gaps in income. The transient nature of temporary roles can impede the establishment of deep-rooted connections within school communities, potentially affecting professional networking and career advancement opportunities, unless working with a reputable teaching recruiter Permanent teaching roles: stability and long-term impact In contrast, permanent teaching roles offer greater stability and security, providing educators with the assurance of ongoing employment and consistent income. For individuals seeking to establish roots within a school community, build lasting relationships with students and colleagues, and contribute to long-term educational initiatives, permanent positions are conducive to professional growth. Permanent (or perm) roles afford teachers the opportunity to make a sustained impact on students’ lives, offering continuity and consistency in their educational journey. By immersing themselves in a specific school culture and curriculum, educators can develop deep connections with students and take on mentorship opportunities and leadership roles that contribute to the school community. Permanent roles often provide access to comprehensive benefits packages, including healthcare, pension schemes, and professional development opportunities. These perks enhance job satisfaction and overall wellbeing, helping teachers feel valued and supported. A permanent contract often makes it easier for teachers to access opportunities for career progression and development. However, commitment to a permanent teaching role entails a long-term investment in a specific school or institution, therefore factors such as school ethos, leadership vision, and career prospects should be considered before committing to a permanent position. Conversely, such roles may limit opportunities for professional exploration and diversification, potentially stifling creativity and innovation in teaching practices. Deciding what's best for you: priorities and nice-to-haves Ultimately, the decision between temporary and permanent teaching roles hinges on individual priorities, aspirations, and circumstances. Here’s how to guide your decision-making process: Reflect on your career goals:Take time to assess your long-term career aspirations, values, and priorities. Consider whether you prioritise stability and continuity or crave variety and exploration in your professional journey. Evaluate your personal circumstances:Consider factors such as financial obligations, family commitments, and lifestyle preferences when weighing the pros and cons of supply and permanent roles. Could you cope with long commutes for example, or be ready to move time and again? Determine how each option aligns with your personal circumstances and desired work-life balance. Seek mentorship and advice:Reach out to experienced educators, mentors, and career advisors for guidance and insights. Their perspectives can offer valuable guidance when it comes to the nuances of temporary and permanent teaching roles and help you make an informed decision. Flexibility and adaptability:Remain open to new opportunities and embrace the flexibility inherent in both temporary and permanent roles. Your career journey may evolve over time, and being adaptable to change is essential for growth and fulfilment. Choosing between temporary and permanent teaching roles is a deeply personal decision that is best decided by evaluating professional aspirations and personal circumstances. While teachers all have the same goal in educating and inspiring the next generation, the way they achieve this may be through various routes – making a difference to the lives of many in one or more schools. Looking for your next teaching role? Get in touch with our specialist education recruiters today for temporary and permanent teaching opportunities.
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Inspiring the next generation: the benefits of offering internships
The decision to hire interns is not merely a trend, but a strategic must. The opportunities associated with internships can be used to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application, while also playing a pivotal role in shaping the careers of aspiring professionals.Towards the end of 2023, Google searches for ‘internships’ increased by 22% to 6,000 searches per month, while the social media platform, TikTok, saw four million views for the hashtag #internships, as more and more students look for opportunities to increase their work experience.For businesses, investing in paid internships is a strategic move that goes beyond fulfilling corporate social responsibility. It's an investment in the future workforce, creating a talent pool that may later become full-time employees. According to the 2022 Student Recruitment Survey by the Institute of Student Employers, 82% of respondents reported that they recruit interns – showing that internships shouldn’t just be viewed as a gesture of goodwill, but play a pivotal role in recognizing talent, promoting diversity, and contributing to overall business success.Managed well, an internship can be a viable recruitment option for an organization. But what are the main reasons why businesses should consider running an internship program?Talent developmentBusinesses can use internship programs as a proactive approach to identifying and nurturing professionals for their talent pool. They can create direct connections with emerging talent, providing them with first-hand experience in their respective industries – from engineering and technology to sales and procurement.With skills shortages affecting a large number of sectors, employers that provide a platform for eager individuals to gain paid experience, help ease the pressures many businesses – and professionals – are facing.Innovation and fresh perspectivesInterns can inject new and exciting perspectives and ideas into the workplace, which can see campaigns thrive and strategies become more impactful. By recognizing that diversity fuels creativity, seeking interns who bring unique insights and approaches to problem-solving will help to enhance the overall creativity and adaptability of the organization.Introducing different perspectives into your workplace provides a fresh take on the business as a whole. Even though interns won't be responsible for creating new policies or planning a strategy, their outside opinion may improve existing practices.For example, as more workplaces undergo digital transformation the need for a workforce that is comfortable with various technologically advanced tools has never been more important. Asking for an intern’s feedback on your digital presence and consumer-facing collateral can pinpoint where potential improvements can be made and where new business or custom can be identified.Social responsibility and diversityBusinesses are increasingly investing in corporate social responsibility and the benefits that come with having a diverse workforce.Running an internship program allows companies to contribute to ongoing social initiatives by providing valuable opportunities to individuals who may face barriers to entry into the workforce. Employers who actively seek out interns from various demographics can demonstrate their commitment to fairness, equality, and social responsibility – heightening their appeal to professionals looking for 'good' companies to work for.It’s important to maintain a community-focused approach, ensuring you ‘give back’ by offering young talent the opportunity to thrive and succeed in an internship – helping enhance their career prospects and your reputation at the same time.Brand image enhancementIn a world where reputation means everything, any opportunity to be seen as an employer of choice can be vital to a successful talent acquisition strategy. Internship programs play a pivotal role in shaping the perception of a company among potential new employees, as well as customers and other stakeholders.Businesses that actively engage in internships can showcase their commitment to investing in professional development, graduate opportunities, and career changes – creating a positive brand image. This in turn attracts people seeking meaningful opportunities for growth and career progression.Helping the next generationThere’s a bigger picture to internship programs. Many individuals, especially recent graduates, may face challenges when embarking on a new career path. Those lucky enough to win internships will reap the benefits that come from the experience, not just in adding to their CV, but in self-confidence gained from developing knowledge of their chosen profession, all while making valuable contacts.Internships ultimately improve future employability and give a head start to those keen to learn sought-after skills in their field, whether that’s invoice management and purchasing in accountancy, or content strategies and communication plans in marketing.Having interns can potentially help to identify future leaders among your junior employees. When overseeing an intern’s day-to-day activities, some junior employees may demonstrate exceptional management and leadership traits. Once these skills have been identified, you may consider investing in these employees further and upskilling them for future leadership opportunities.Businesses that offer internships are not just investing in short-term support but are strategically building a foundation for long-term success. An internship is still one of the best ways for professionals to gain that all-important work experience, highlighting the importance a robust internship program plays in growing and expanding the workforce.Looking to hire experienced professionals to join your team? Contact one of our specialist consultants today.
Teacher resignation letter template – free download
Resigning from a teaching role can be difficult, regardless of the length of time spent at a school. It can be something of an emotional rollercoaster, with the excitement of the future dampened by the prospect of sharing your news with the department head or head teacher. The manner in which a teacher resigns can have a lasting impact. A positive resignation process not only benefits the departing teacher but also the school community, and the first step of the journey involves writing the resignation letter, which is arguably one of the hardest tasks. Resignation etiquette: getting it right However thrilled you may be about leaving your teaching role, it’s imperative to maintain professionalism. By providing ample notice and following proper procedures, you demonstrate your commitment and respect for the school you are leaving. This reflects well on your reputation and can contribute to maintaining good references for future career opportunities. Teachers are bound by set resignation dates to allow for suitable replacements to be found, so planning ahead is key for a smooth departure at the end of the spring, summer or autumn term. Resigning well helps minimise disruption to students’ education and ensures continuity in the learning environment. Resigning with integrity also allows teachers to depart on amicable terms, preserving professional relationships and networks. In the small world of education, where connections often extend beyond individual schools, maintaining relationships with former colleagues and administrators can be invaluable for future career opportunities, whether through networking, references, or collaboration on future projects. A resignation letter template can facilitate the exit process by providing a structured framework. Templates ensure that essential information, such as the intended last working day and any necessary follow-up actions, is clearly communicated, while also allowing personalisation to reflect gratitude for time spent at the school and reasons for leaving. Using a resignation letter template also helps ensure that all necessary details are included, reducing the risk of misunderstandings or oversights during the exit process. This can help to streamline the administrative aspects. Take some of the stress out of resigning. Our template will ensure you leave on a high note, freeing you up to focus on a happy and productive notice period. Download our free teacher resignation letter template to help smooth your exit using the button at the top of this page.