Every 1-2 monthsInternational School Community will highlight one of our members.  This month we interviewed Annette Harvey:

Tell us about your background.  Where are you from?

I am from Cheadle, Staffordshire in England.

How did you get started in the international teaching community?

A long term relationship had broken up and I felt I needed a change and wanted to be in a closer school community.

Which international schools have you worked at?  Please share some aspects of the schools that made them unique and fun places in which to work.

PDO School Muscat: Fantastic colleagues, children and parents. A Beautiful, safe country. Swimming with turtles, umpiring the Omani hockey, even though I was a woman!Horizon School Dubai.Newton International School Doha. Shanghai Rego International School: great colleagues who have become friends. Again some wonderful, supportive parents and amazing children. Champagne brunches. My tailor who I miss greatly!

Describe your latest cultural encounter in your current placement, one that put a smile on your face.

I am currently working atHaileybury Almaty in Kazakhstan. Having a traditional Kazakh Band play to all the pupils on the last day of the autumn term. Listening to their amazing music on unusual (for me) instruments; watching them move model animals with their instruments and watching the snow fall outside, just beautiful.

What are some important things that you look for when you are searching for a new position at an international school?

Location, salary, curriculum, benefits as I would never move to a school without medical insurance.

In exactly 5 words, how would you describe the international school teaching experience?

Hard work, but immensely rewarding.

Thanks Annette!  If you are a member ofInternational School Community and would like to be our next member spotlight,contact us here.  If we choose to highlight you, you will get a coupon code to receive 6 months free of premium access to our website!