Hi All,

I'm hoping to teach (Foundation Stage) in one of the SCE schools next year. As a single woman, who would be away from home for the first time since university, I was wondering if anyone had any advice for me?

I've been told that teachers are generally sent to Germany or Cyprus initially and are eligible for officer accomodation, but I'm not really sure what this means... what kind of flat / house do officers get?

Also any advice on which areas of Germany / Cyrus to request? Is it better to live on the base or off? So many questions!!

Its been a while since I served overseas so the following may be out of date .... but I doubt it.

"Officer Status" normally means that you can live in the Officers Mess and, to be honest, I strongly recommend that you take up this opportunity. You can (should) rely on a warm welcome from the others "living in" and being based overseas normally means the social life will be pretty good. The Mess is a great source of instant friends so makes the move a bit easier too.

On a slightly separate note .... relationships between the (mainly) female teachers and (mainly) male officers always made for a more interesting time for everyone involved!

Hi

The teachers who lived near us in Germany had houses. The Capt equivalent were in 3 bed and the Major equivalent in 4 beds. It didn't matter that they were single, they still had houses and were as much a part of the community as they wanted to be.

They also didn't pay rent or fuel/light bills and were eligible for LOA, so it's a pretty good deal. Certainly with the way things are in the UK, it would be a good start to a career and a fantastic opportunity to save some cash or pay off any student loans.

The SCE school that my children attended was fantastic - it was well resourced and had a strong head. It's also a good stepping stone onto the international circuit with lots of international schools over seas recruiting from SCE.

Personally, I would go for it, good British teachers are greatly valued over seas.

Meant to add, if you meet the love of your life and he's in the forces - it's far better to stay single (if you can make it work). Once you marry and become a dependent your status changes and the difference in what you're allowed to earn abroad (albeit from the same employer) is shocking.

This is true of all UK based civilians, regardless of profession. A couple of very good friends have been caught out horribly this way.

It all may have changed though, but do your homework anyway.



Good luck.

Last time I looked you weren't housed in the Mess but in a quarter. You're still a Mess member though.

Most of my friends are former SCE teachers now married to Army. Strange that!

Have fun!

Thank you all for your advice, I'll definately be applying!

Hello
I am a Corporal and my wife is due to finish her teaching qualification next year.
When we get posted to Germany are we still entitled to apply for a quarter in her name and get it free?
Thanks

I don't think so. None of the married teachers I know do at any rate. Nice try though!!