Choosing whether to teach in a large urban city or a quaint town is down to what you’re used to and your abilities as an educator. If you’re open-minded about location and school size, Impact Teachers are here to provide to with the facts and advantages of the opposing location types.
Big City Schools
1. People. So Many People.
2. You’ll Never Run out of Things to Do
From shops, to gigs, to museums, to parks, to restaurants, to pubs, clubs and bars, cities are bursting to the brim with stuff to do. There will inevitably be tonnes of nooks and crannies to explore and you’re sure to discover one or two hidden gems along the way. Also, rural surroundings can often eat away at your time and make you lose track of time and what you’re supposed to be doing- especially when work is concerned (lesson prep anyone?)
3. Larger Wage Packet
Due to everything you do and buy costing more in built-up areas, you tend to get a little more cash help you fork out for it, which can only put a smile on your face come pay day.
No, it’s not a fairy godmother- it’s the likes of 24/7 supermarkets, comforting takeaways on tap and plenty of entertainment and shopping choices. You may not come across authentic culture every corner you turn, but you’ll certainly experience the hustle and bustle of the city through what you chose to do and when you chose to do it.
5. More Extra-Curricular Activities
After-school clubs, lunchtime team games and competitions- the list is endless to what you could be a part of in your spare time at school. These activities also give you a chance to get to know other students that you may not have come across otherwise, as well as experiencing the diversity that a large amount of pupils that city schools inevitably will have to offer. Larger schools are also far more likely to have access to plenty of resources to keep the kids happy. The variety of activities to take part in is also likely to be larger at a larger school and you could even try your hand at multiple activities, which will help your future job apps shine.
Small & Rural Schools
One word. Space. At smaller schools,
which tend to be situated in smaller surroundings, you’re far more likely to be teaching at a single form entry school and will therefore have more time to focus your attention, skill and compassion towards each student as well as enjoying more physical space around you. Although teachers tend to feel like they need to be in six places at once, but with fewer students you can really push yourself to take your time over your pupils and provide an exceptional amount of time and energy to create quality teaching and a quality teacher. In fact, small school children spend some 7% more school time on task according to Mike Carter, Chairman of the National Small Forum. Fewer students also mean fewer staff and more leadership opportunities to consider to develop your career- which can only be a good thing!
