Kayliegh Richards

Personal and professional growth are important to me. I was motivated to apply for my current international role for personal and professional growth and development and the opportunity to explore a new culture and better work-life balance.

I am currently head of Year 5, soon to be Year 6. My role includes teaching a class of 28 children across all subjects of the UK curriculum. In addition to this, I am responsible for leading a team of four other class teachers and two learning assistants (LAs) as well as leading the planning and curriculum map for year 5 including year group interventions and organising school trips and events.

Creating learning opportunities with talented colleagues is a real highlight. Being responsible for planning exciting activities and opportunities for the children to participate in and working alongside some extremely experienced and creative teachers and LAs is very rewarding.

Managing the needs of 140 children can be challenging but devising supportive systems and resources that make a positive difference is rewarding. I have devised a behaviour reward chart, in addition to the school behaviour policy, to positively support specific behaviours. Managing the various attitudes and personalities of my team members can also be challenging but my participation in a CPD coaching course has helped me reflect upon and adapt my approach to others.

Being immersed in a different culture and working with children from diverse backgrounds are the most memorable parts of my experience. I have enjoyed learning more about the country, through days such as Qatar National Day and International day celebrations and I have been able to progress and lead a variety of whole school initiatives, delivering CPD to staff in areas such as PSHE, mental health and SEND.

This experience has deepened my understanding of different cultures and the ability to plan lessons which are appropriate for different children. It has also led to a leadership role, potentially providing me with further opportunities in the future.

I am keen to develop further in the future. I am particularly interested in developing my skills around mental health and pastoral roles in the future and these experiences have helped equip me with the skills and strategies to support any future endeavours I decide upon.

I would definitely recommend working overseas and experiencing an international school to Edge Hill University students. The advice I would offer is to be open minded and open to exploring new diverse cultures – take every opportunity inside the classroom and outside to explore your new environment. Embrace new challenges, particularly in the first year, and take on every opportunity as a positive opportunity for personal and professional growth.