Working at a boarding school is a popular option for gap years, especially if you’re looking for a few more home comforts compared to outdoor placements. There are teaching and general assistant jobs available
What are Boarding Schools
A boarding school is a school where pupils live within premises while being given formal instruction. The word “boarding” is used in the sense of “room and board”, i.e. lodging and meals. Usually boarding schools are very exclusive, some cost thousands to attend per term.
Boarding schools are relatively more prevalent in the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Austria, USA, Canada, Australia, India, China, and South Africa.
Where to Find Work
There are short and long term careers available in boarding schools all around the world. Popular destinations to find work at boarding schools include the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. A popular role is to work as a a school gap assistant (gappie) in Australia – you’ll get to explore more of this amazing country in your free time!
Role and What to Expect
As a gap year boarding school assistant food and onsite accommodation is usually included during term time, when you will gain valuable work experience helping staff in the administration of the school, supervising pupils with homework and organising extra-curricular activities. AND you have all those holidays to go and explore your host country!
Life in a boarding school is not a 9-5 existence as you may be asked to supervise in the early mornings, ensuring the dorms are tidy and the students are ready for breakfast. In the evenings you might be asked to assist with prep and supervise extra-curricular activities. The same is true of weekend duty when you may take pupils on outings.
You may also have the opportunity to tailor your duties around your interests, as you will generally be relied upon to help with many extra-curricular activities: You could use your sports prowess out on the field or artistic skills to help with drama, music and art clubs. For the willing and fun teacher there will always be lots of activities to get involved with!
Requirements
You usually need to be aged 17-30 for most gap year placements. These roles are popular with school leavers, graduates and anyone seeking a career in education.
How to Apply
If the information above appeals to you, then working at a boarding school might be more your thing. You can find boarding schools all around the world and most have recruitment sections on their websites to register your international or start an application. Another option which is similar but slightly different is to teach English abroad. Or for more ideas search more gap year jobs abroad.