In recent days, COVID-19 has become a topic of concern for our teachers abroad and their families at home.
We want to assure you that we are monitoring this situation closely and working hard to make sure the needs of our teachers are met. We want you to know your options and ensure your safety as our top priority.
This post will provide:
Information about alternate employment in rural areas for teachers in Australia if schools are closed.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Steve at Steven@leadingout.net.
What is the state of Australian schools and what will happen if there are school closures?
At the time of posting, schools in Australia remain open.
It is Leading Out’s understanding that if you’re in a contract with one of our schools (not doing CRT work), you will continue to be paid if schools shut down.
What can I do for work if schools shut down for a period of time?
If schools close down, our Leading Out network is pleased to offer connections that will help our community find work in rural areas.
Some benefits of rural work during this time are:
An opportunity to leave the busy city and spend some time in a less populous and quieter part of the country.
A steady income regardless of closures.
Room and board is often included with rural job opportunities.
A rural job will give you another 12 months on your working holiday visa, allowing to return to Melbourne once schools re-open.
In recent days, COVID-19 has become a topic of concern for our teachers abroad and their families at home.
We want to assure you that we are monitoring this situation closely and working hard to make sure the needs of our teachers are met. We want you to know your options and ensure your safety as our top priority.
This post will provide:
Information about school closures and work for teachers in New Zealand
Please bookmark this post and check back regularly. Because of the changeable nature of the situation, information is only as relevant and accurate as the minute it is posted. We will update the page with any relevant data.
This post was last updated: June 9, 2020 at 10:00 AM EST.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Steve at Steven@leadingout.net.
Information for Teachers in New Zealand
UPDATE:
As of midnight last night, NZ moved to alert level 1, which means things are “normal.” There is no longer a requirement for social distancing, schools operate as usual, all sport is able to start up again and bars and restaurants are back fully open.
PM Jacinda Arden has asked that people continue to maintain robust hygiene practices, and also keep records of their movements so that if needed, it can be used for contact tracing in the future.
Borders remain firmly closed to everybody except returning NZ citizens and residents.
If you have questions or concerns about your specific situation, please reach out to Steve at steven@leadingout.net.
What can Leading Out Teachers do for work if the schools close?
EP will aim to give teachers work as ECE teachers, assuming ECE Centres are still open. Currently the best plan is working on finding our teachers long term jobs in schools—our contacts in New Zealand say there is still a shortage.
Is EP considering closing their office?
EP has no plans to close their office. Most people can work from home if necessary which means there will be no gap in support.
EP can provide arriving teachers, who have to self isolate for 14 days, with support via technology.
Where can I get more information about NZ schools and COVID-19?
Anyone arriving from offshore must register with Healthline and spend 14 days at home in self-isolation.
Current Flight Information From Flight Centre
For urgent assistance with destination issues outside of office hours please contact Flight Centre’s 24/7 Emergency Assist at 1-844-873-5491, or collect outside of North America at 1-416-979-6799.
NOTE: As this information is ever-changing, if you have booked through Flight Centre, the best option is to contact Flight Centre directly.
How can I change my departure date?
NOTE: On March 19, 2020 the New Zealand government closed the border to arrivals. Please contact Flight Centre for assistance in rebooking your departure date.
Dates currently can be changed for travel only in March/April, with the change fee waived – the airfare difference will still apply.
Depending on the airline and departure dates there may be waivers in place to help make this more affordable for you.
Travel must be rebooked by the end of March and, and likely completed by the end of this year (Dec 31 2020).
How can I change my return date?
Once again, the best thing to do is contact your Flight Centre agent directly for the most up-to-date information.
Any departures beyond April right now typically are still in regular airline Terms and Conditions unless the traveller has interruption insurance coverage.
What are the costs associated with changing a flight date?
Every airline is different depending on their departure/return date and when they bought the ticket. Flight Centre can help you determine this cost.
Is there any insurance that will cover costs of these changes?
This would be a covered risk provided you purchased your insurance prior to your specific insurance company’s drop date for COVID-19.
The two companies Flight Centre works with are Manulife (March 4) and Allianz (March 11).
As of these dates, the insurance companies no longer allow you to buy cancellation insurance and have COVID be a covered event – it’s now considered a known event.
Are there any currently any travel restrictions to and from New Zealand?
Flight Centre advises our guests to continue to check travel.gc.ca for the most up to date information for Canadians looking to travel to/from New Zealand.
As information is changing by the minute, we’re not able to notify every traveller.
As of March 19, 2020 New Zealand has further strengthened travel restrictions, closing its border to almost all travellers.
If you have a flight set to arrive in New Zealand, it must be postponed and rescheduled for when the borders open. We recommend you connect with a travel agent at Flight Centre to complete this process.
The Government of Canada has also released the following statement:
In an attempt to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions for their territory.
Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions related to this situation. Consider even your transit points.
Restrictions imposed could include:
Entry bans, particularly for non-residents
Exit bans
Quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, regardless of where you are arriving from
Health screenings
Border closures
Airport closures
Flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
Suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
Monitor the media for the latest information
Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Current Medical Information from Flight Centre
Does the basic coverage that Flight Centre provides cover COVID-19 related illness?
Yes. This would be a covered risk provided you purchased your insurance prior to your specific insurance company’s drop date for COVID-19.
The drop dates are Manulife (March 4) and Allianz (March 11). If you purchased insurance on or before these dates, you’re covered.
How much will my insurance policy cover?
The amount covered varies with policies.
Emergency (unforeseen medical) coverage under Manulife:
Under 60 plans: up to $5 million
Youth plans: up to $1 million
Emergency (unforeseen medical) under Allianz:
Under 60 plans: up to $10 million
Youth plans: up to $1 million
Are there any additional nuances regarding medical coverage related to COVID-19?
If you have Emergency Medical benefits on your policy, departed on your trip prior to March 13, 2020 and contracted COVID-19 at your destination, you will continue to be eligible for Emergency Medical treatment.
There is an exception to this if the Government of Canada issued a Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisory for your trip destination prior to your departure date.
Important update: For policies with Emergency Medical benefits that are purchased on or after March 13, 2020, any Emergency Medical claims related to coronavirus will not be payable.
Any questions or concerns? Please contact Steve at Steven@leadingout.net.
In recent days, COVID-19 has become a topic of concern for our teachers abroad and their families at home.
We want to assure you that we are monitoring this situation closely and working hard to make sure the needs of our teachers are met. We want you to know your options and ensure your safety as our top priority.
This post will provide:
Information about schools for teachers in Australia
Please bookmark this post and check back regularly. Because of the changeable nature of the situation, information is only as relevant and accurate as the minute it is posted. We will update the page with any relevant data.
This post was last updated: July 14th, 2020 at 11:30 AM EST.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Steve at Steven@leadingout.net.
Information for Teachers in Australia
What is the state of Australian schools and what will happen if there are school closures?
LATEST UPDATE: Victoria is back in lockdown. Schooling will be in a remote classroom setting until 19th August.
Remote lessons will be taught by teachers from school, so we believe there will be an increased need for our service over Term 2.
Year 11, 12 students will remain learning on-site, and special development schools are also fully operational.
The government announced this will be for the next 6 weeks, in line with the lockdown Level 3 that Victoria has been put back into.
There will be no interruption of access to communication with Leading Out via email or phone during this time.
Here is some useful financial support for you to access through these times:
For Australian citizens, the Australian government is removing waiting periods for Newstart and increasing the fortnightly payments by $550 to approximately $1,100 per fortnight.
For both Australian and overseas citizens, the government is allowing up to $10,000 to be withdrawn from superannuation funds in the 2019-20 and the 2020-21 years. This can be withdrawn without paying taxes, and we highly recommend taking advantage of this.
Please note that the easiest way for the benefit or superannuation draw-down to be accessed is via the MyGov online portal: https://my.gov.au/
This is just the support that we are currently aware of, however there may be more announced in the coming days.
Once schools re-open, we are anticipating a huge demand for casual relief teachers and the vital role you play in the education of Victoria’s children will be more important than ever. Be gentle on yourself over the coming weeks and remember we are here anytime you need to talk.
What should I tell my students when they ask about COVID-19?
The topic of COVID-19 will inevitably be discussed in classrooms across Australia. Here are a few tips to assist with the discussion should it arise:
Seek advice when you first arrive at the school for how they are dealing with the conversations around COVID-19. Follow any guidance given.
Generally speaking, teachers can assist in this by being calm, reassuring and consistent. They can be a critical resource in ensuring children and young people remain in a predictable routine.
To ensure routine, make sure that you focus on the everyday learning and curriculum requirements.
If the topic of COVID-19 arises, students need factual and age appropriate information and clear instruction about how to avoid spreading the virus:
Allow the student’s questions and their age guide you in how much information to share.
Very young children generally need clear, simple information and reassurance. Keep it brief and to the point.
Reassure students that there are health professionals and government who are working hard to ensure people’s health and safety. At this point very few people are sick with the virus. Not everyone will get the virus and the vast majority of people who get the virus will fully recover.
Older children may need assistance to separate rumour from reality. It is important to focus on accurate and factual information that is age appropriate. Having reliable and trustworthy sources will give them a sense of reality and control.
Be vigilant for students who may be experiencing increased anxiety. Routine, factual information, calmness and attentiveness will help reduce anxiety.
What can I do for work if schools shut down for a period of time?
If schools close down, our Leading Out network is pleased to offer connections that will help our community find work in rural areas.
Some benefits of rural work during this time are:
An opportunity to leave the busy city and spend some time in a less populous and quieter part of the country.
A steady income regardless of closures.
Room and board is often included with rural job opportunities.
A rural job will give you another 12 months on your working holiday visa, allowing to return to Melbourne once schools re-open.
For more information about this topic, please read our blog about finding rural Job Opportunities.
Current Flight Information from Flight Centre
For urgent assistance with destination issues outside of office hours please contact Flight Centre’s 24/7 Emergency Assist at 1-844-873-5491, or collect outside of North America at 1-416-979-6799.
NOTE: As this information is ever-changing, if you have booked through Flight Centre, the best option is to contact Flight Centre directly for the most current information.
How can I change my departure date?
Note: From 9pm AEDT 20 March 2020, the Australian government declared that only Australian citizens, residents and immediate family members can travel to Australia. This means you must rebook your schedule for a later date when the borders reopen.
We recommend contacting Flight Centre to assist with this.
Dates currently can be changed for travel only in March/April, with the change fee waived – the airfare difference will still apply.
Depending on the airline and departure dates there may be waivers in place to help make this more affordable for you.
Travel must be rebooked by the end of March and, and likely completed by the end of this year (Dec 31 2020).
How can I change my return date?
Once again, the best thing to do is contact your Flight Centre agent directly for the most up-to-date information.
Any departures beyond April right now typically are still in regular airline Terms and Conditions unless the traveller has interruption insurance coverage.
What are the costs associated with changing a flight date?
Every airline is different depending on their departure/return date and when they bought the ticket. Flight Centre can help you determine this cost.
Is there any insurance that will cover costs of these changes?
This would be a covered risk, provided you purchased your insurance prior to your specific insurance company’s drop date for COVID-19.
The two companies Flight Centre works with are Manulife (March 4) and Allianz (March 11).
As of these dates, the insurance companies no longer allow you to buy cancellation insurance and have COVID be a covered event – it’s now considered a known event.
Are there any currently any travel restrictions to and from Australia? Will you keep us personally apprised of any changes?
Flight Centre advises our guests to continue to check travel.gc.ca for the most up to date information for Canadians looking to travel to/from Australia and New Zealand.
As information is changing by the minute, we’re not able to notify every traveler.
As of March 20, 2020 only Australian citizens, residents and immediate family members can travel to Australia.
The Government of Canada has also released the following statement:
In an attempt to limit the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions for their territory.
Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions related to this situation. Consider even your transit points.
Restrictions imposed could include:
Entry bans, particularly for non-residents
Exit bans
Quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, regardless of where you are arriving from
Health screenings
Border closures
Airport closures
Flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
Suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
Monitor the media for the latest information
Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Current Medical Information from Flight Centre
Does the basic coverage that Flight Centre provides cover COVID-19 related illness?
Yes—this would be a covered risk provided you purchased your insurance prior to your specific insurance company’s drop date for COVID-19.
The drop dates are Manulife (March 4) and Allianz (March 11). If you purchased insurance on or before these dates, you’re covered.
How much will my insurance policy cover?
The amount covered varies with policies.
Emergency (unforeseen medical) coverage under Manulife:
Under 60 plans: up to $5 million
Youth plans: up to $1 million
Emergency (unforeseen medical) under Allianz:
Under 60 plans: up to $10 million
Youth plans: up to $1 million
Are there any additional nuances regarding medical coverage related to COVID-19?
If you have Emergency Medical benefits on your policy, departed on your trip prior to March 13, 2020 and contracted COVID-19 at your destination, you will continue to be eligible for Emergency Medical treatment.
There is an exception to this if the Government of Canada issued a Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisory for your trip destination prior to your departure date.
Important update: For policies with Emergency Medical benefits that are purchased on or after March 13, 2020, any Emergency Medical claims related to coronavirus will not be payable.
Any questions or concerns? Contact Steve at Steven@leadingout.net.
Basketball might not be the first sport you think of when anyone mentions Australia—but that could soon change.
The Australian national men’s basketball team, The Boomers, is heating up in the 2019 Basketball World Cup (also known as FIBA). If you haven’t been paying attention to FIBA yet, and you’re living down undah, you might want to start now—and we have three great reasons why.
1. Team Australia beat Team USA and made history
The 2019 Boomers beat Team USA—something the men’s Australian basketball team has never done… ever. They’ve been waiting a long time for it too—55 years. Team USA included some serious NBA talent, including Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez of the Milwaukee Bucks (who were contenders for the NBA Championship this year).
Sure, it was a friendly match before the official start of the tournament BUT the 98-94 nailbiting win boosted spirits for the team and the country in a big way. It raised hopes that Australia will go far in the tournament, and for the team’s chances at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.
Australia has yet to face Team USA in the tournament itself, but it’s a possibility if they keep moving up. Which brings us to our next point…
2. They’re already in the quarter-finals AND the tournament is almost over
While you’ve been living your life, the Boomers have been grinding their way up the FIBA ladder with grit and determination. The Australian team ust beat France on September 9, 100-98, compelling them into the quarter-final.
The tournament only runs until September 15th, which means the heat is on and the excitement is building to a peak. They’re now only three games away from being World Cup champions. Are you really going to miss that?
3. It’s a great excuse to get together with your friends
Maybe you don’t care about basketball—hey, that’s fair. But, if nothing else, tuning in to cheer on Team Australia in the FIBA tournament is a great excuse for a party.
You might have friends over to your place, or head to the nearest pub and cheer them on over a couple of pints. (Be sure to wear the team’s signature colours: green and golden yellow!) This bandwagon is full steam ahead and heading out.
Australia next plays the Czech Republic on Wednesday, September 11 at 21:00 (GMT+8).
Will you be tuning in to cheer on Aus? Let us know in the comments, on Facebook or Instagram.
Let’s get serious here for a bit, Ontario teachers. Everything that’s happening in Ontario politics and education right now means there couldn’t be a better time to apply for teaching jobs in New Zealand or Australia.
If you’ve been out of touch, here’s a quick rundown and what it means for you in the near future.
What’s happening to Ontario education?
• Teacher and education worker contracts expire at the end of August.
• Ontario Premier Doug Ford is proposing increases in class sizes (which means less electives will be available). He wants to create mandatory online courses for high school students. Ford also has alleged plans to save the province money by phasing out 3,475 teaching positions within the next four years.
• Walkouts and protests for these changes are happening across the province, planned by students and teachers. Needless to say, these proposed cuts are not a good thing for people who want teaching jobs.
• Negotiations recently began between the Ford government and Ontario Secondary School Teacher’s Federation (OSSTF). Talks have so far included possibly bargaining away sick days.
What does this mean for Ontario teachers?
Some changes are likely about to be made that will cost Ontario’s teachers in the long run. First and foremost, if negotiations aren’t concluded by the end of August, Ontario teachers may go on strike.
Beyond that, we’re looking at the possibility of a real shortage of teaching jobs in primary and secondary schools in Ontario over the next five years.
The government has claimed they won’t be cutting jobs, but instead just not rehiring staff after someone retires. That still means teaching positions are being slowly phased out. BUT—if this has you stressed out about career prospects, read on. We’re here to help with one simple notion: who says you have to teach in Canada?
Teaching jobs in Australia and New Zealand
Although these turbulent political times are stressful, they also create the potential for Ontario teachers to embrace new job opportunities elsewhere.
While the Ford government eyeballs cuts in the province, teachers are in high demand in Australia and New Zealand. These countries need teachers, and if you’ve ever considered travelling to work—it’s a great time to do so.
Leading Out is happy to help you find teaching positions in Australia and THEN some. We go the extra mile and help you apply for visas, find accommodation, and more. Besides getting a teaching job you’ll love, moving to Australia has many other benefits, including fabulous food and incredible travel opportunities!
Get in touch!
What have you got to lose by dropping us a line? If you are looking to start your next adventure with us, or you have questions, email steven@Leadingout.net. Don’t forget you can also get in touch on Facebook and Instagram, or leave us your thoughts in the comments below.
Did you know that teaching overseas in Australia with Leading Out can get you more than our excellent services? It’s true! Through our partnerships, Leading Out teachers are entitled to benefits, perks, and discounts for everything from exchanging their money to booking their next vacation.
Because we’re a network of people and not a corporation, we’ve worked hard to establish relationships with companies in Australia to help ourteachers overseas live their best life. Read on and reap the rewards!
Book Your Flight To Australia
Are you looking for a great deal while booking flights to Australia? Are you unsure of how to get the best travel experience? We recommend getting in touch with our preferred travel agent Stephanie Coomber.
It’s no secret that the Canadian and U.S. dollar have had their ups and downs—especially when trading them into other currency to travel the world.
If you’re looking for the best bang for your (literal) buck check out OFX, Leading Out’s foreign exchange rate company of choice. OFX can offer you free transfers back and forth between your home country and Australia.
Use promo code Leading Out for 5% off on rentals of 4 days or longer, and enjoy the ride. (Psst, if you’re looking for the best time to travel or welcome visitors from home while you’re Down Under, you can check out this handy guide!)
Cage Dive With Great White Sharks
Ready for a once in a lifetime experience? Then it’s time to get back in the water! Calypso Great White Shark Cage Diving is our company of choice for daring deeds in the deep blue sea. Immerse yourself in an underwater world and see these apex predators up close and personal.
Use promo code “Leading Out” and receive a 10% discount off your own aquatic adventure.
Snorkel With Whale Sharks
If Great Whites aren’t your speed (and you’ve watched Jaws too many times), the gentle whale shark might be the perfect swimming companion for you.
Through our partnership with the Exmouth Dive Centre, you can snorkel with these spotted gentle giants of the deep. Just use promo code Leading Out for a 10% discount.
Additionally, Exmouth Dive Centre offers scuba tours and other adventures, so be sure to check them out!
Get Help Applying For A Skilled Worker Visa
So you’ve been settled in Australia for awhile and would like to file for a longer stay with a skilled worker visa. In cases like these, it’s recommended you find an immigration lawyer to help ease the process—we’ve got you covered.
Ask Leading Out for an introduction to Nevett Ford and receive preferred assistance as you work through the legal process.
Have any questions about Leading Out’s perks and discounts? Have you already tried some of them out? Comment below, or get in touch on Facebook and Instagram.
When teaching overseas you may take part in observing Anzac Day in your school. If you have no idea what we’re talking about, you’re in the right place.
Every April 25th, in cities across Australia and New Zealand, ceremonies are held to honour men and women who have served in armed conflicts across the world. Although it’s similar to Remembrance Day, Anzac Day sets itself apart as a formative part of the national identity for both countries.
It’s observed at war memorials, monuments, and in schools—which means Canadians and American teachers overseas might have some homework this month. Here’s a quick run down of how Anzac Day began, quick facts, and ways to bring it into your classroom.
The First Anzac Day
Anzac Day was established on April 25th, 1916. It was originally to honour members of the army who served in the Gallipoli Campaign. The Gallipoli Campaign the first engagement of Australia and New Zealand in World War I. These soldiers were known as Anzacs—the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.
The campaign began on April 25, 1915. Its goal was to take Constantinople, capital of the Ottoman empire. About 25,000 Australians and New Zealanders engaged in the mission, an eight-month gruelling stalemate with many casualties.
The mission to take Constantinople ultimately failed, but the selfless, tenacious legacy of the Anzac soldiers left a lasting impression on their home countries. In fact, the Gallipoli Campaign is credited with shaping the cultural identity of both nations. Since it first began Anzac Day has become a day to honour all the current and former members of armed forces in New Zealand and Australia.
Anzac Day Ceremonies in Australia and New Zealand
A number of ceremonies and events take place each April 25th, including:
• The Dawn Service or Dawn Parade. A commemorative service at dawn—the time of the original landing in Gallipoli. This often includes a drum roll, the National Anthem, as well as readings and prayers.
• In some places, such as the Australian War Memorial, breakfast is served after dawn ceremonies. This is meant to echo the breakfast eaten by the first soldiers sent out on morning patrol. (Historical fact: this included a “tot of rum” out in the trenches, but we don’t recommend bringing this tradition to school!) • Marches of ex-servicemen and women take place later in the day, in both large and small cities.
• The Last Post ceremony is the last observation of the day, which includes laying wreaths of flowers and a reading of The Ode—a traditional Anzac day recitation.
• Assemblies are held in some schools, and discussions or activities may take place.
• In New Zealand, the afternoon of Anzac Day is often observed as a holiday.
Special Symbols of Anzac Day
Just like Remembrance Day, red poppies are worn as a symbol remembrance. Wreaths of poppies are often placed as commemorative tokens during ceremonies.
More unique to Anzac Day is the wearing of rosemary, which represents memory. Rosemary also has special significance because it grows on the Gallipoli peninsula.
Classroom Activities for Anzac Day
Hopefully your fellow teachers and co-workers at school will be able to give you the rundown on observing Anzac Day. However, we’ve also collected some resources and idea you may find helpful.
• The Australian Army website: suggested speeches for both primary and secondary school audiences on the topic of Anzac Day.
• Teach Starter’s Anzac Day Resources: this helpful listing includes arts and crafts activities, books you might share with your students, and print-out worksheets.
• Anzac Biscuit Recipe: This traditional soldier’s cookie was created to last without refrigeration and provide energy for the Anzacs. (It just so happens they also taste great!) Consider baking some with your class if you have access to a kitchen.
How are you planning to observe Anzac Day in your classroom? Leave us a comment below, or get in touch on Facebook and Instagram.
One of the most prohibitive things about teaching in New Zealand or Australia could be the cost of moving overseas. The price of a plane ticket, visas, and storage for any stuff you haven’t Marie Kondo’d out of your life by now might seem like a major barrier. Now, there’s a grant for that.
That’s right—good news for people looking for teaching jobs in New Zealand! The Overseas Relocation Grant, also known as the ORG, could make the cost of moving to teach across the world much more affordable.
Even better news? Leading Out is ready to do everything we can to help you apply and get you on the way to the adventure of a lifetime!
First, let’s take a bit more of an in-depth look at the ORG, how it works and whether you’re eligible to apply.
What is the Overseas Relocation Grant?
Sure, it says it all up front in the name—the ORG is a teaching grant offered by the New Zealand government to those who are interested in teaching overseas. It’s meant to help cover the cost of relocating.
The grant covers up to $5,000 in moving expenses, and is given to teachers after they have successfully relocated to New Zealand.
Why is New Zealand Offering the ORG?
New Zealand is looking for teachers to fill positions all across the country. They count on international teachers to staff many of their schools. If you’re a qualified Canadian or North American teacher, there’s a good chance you’ll be eligible to apply for the grant.
If you’ve always wanted to travel and teach, but have been intimidated by the potential cost, this could be the opportunity for you!
Am I Eligible for the Overseas Relocation Grant?
In order to qualify for the ORG, you need to have a teaching job in New Zealand already established, as well as a certification to work in Aoeterea. (That’s the Maori name for New Zealand—something you’ll pick up when you start your future teaching job overseas!)
More specifically, the TeachNZ site states that applicants for the Overseas Relocation Grant must be registered and certified by the Education Council of New Zealand, as well as have a full-time, permanent, or fixed-term position for 12 months in a State school.
Can Leading Out Help Me Find Teaching Jobs New Zealand?
You might be thinking, “But how can I get a job so I can apply for this grant and begin living my best life ASAP?”
Forgive us for sounding like an infomercial, but that’s where Leading Out comes in. Finding qualified teachers work overseas is our specialty!
We use our network of connections, and first-hand experience to help you get work, apply for visas, find accommodation, and of course, file that grant application!
You can check out Our Services page for a more in-depth look at how we can help, or contact us if you want to know more about the ORG, teaching in New Zealand, and how we can make it happen!
Have you ever thought about teaching in New Zealand? Do you have any questions about the Overseas Relocation Grant?
Leave a comment below or get in touch, or reach out to us on Facebook.
There’s no better way to get to know Melbourne than by sampling its restaurant scene. Google where to eat in the city and you’ll be bombarded with “best of” lists that have 30, 40, or even 50 restaurants on them. Luckily, at Leading Out because we’re busy making travel guides, getting teachers work overseas, and generally hustling, we’re always hungry.
Eating in new countries is one of the great pleasures that teaching and travelling abroad offers. You can have your senses swept up and immersed in tastes and smells you’ve never experienced. You might discover a deep connection with a place that serves up familiar flavours—a taste of home.
Down Melbourne’s graffitied alleys and up narrow staircases, you’ll find whimsical decor, and unique world-class dining experiences.
Here are four of our restaurant picks for your next dinner out on the town.
Chin Chin
Turn down the right alley and you might find this hip, bustling gem of a restaurant. DJs spin beats in the evening, and even though the place is usually packed come dinnertime, seats are well worth the wait.
Chin Chin is proudly Australian, and serves up South East Asian fare—curries, noodle dishes, and even a little BBQ. There’s something for everyone. With items like Chilli Salt Chicken Wings and Twice Cooked Pork Ribs with Crispy Rice Salad, even reading their menu will make your mouth water.
Mamasita
Hidden above your local 7-11 (yeah you read that right), Mamasita serves up incredible Mexican-inspired dishes. They’re well-finessed and you’ll want to try one of everything. As a bonus, if you’re a tequila lover, you’ll love talking to their in-house Mezcalier. Everyone will love the chargrilled corn which comes in the bowl or on the cob, served with queso, lime, and chipotle mayo. Call the restaurant ahead of time to make reservations, or be prepared to wait!
Naked For Satan
This restaurant is definitely Not Safe For Work—but a great place to head for happy hour afterwards! Serving up tapas and amazing cocktails featuring custom infused vodkas with flavours like Opium & Rose or Fig, this restaurant’s delicious bites will tickle your palate and your fancy.
Come here on a warm night when you’re ready to be mingle. You’ll be up and moving around to sample their unique delights. Another fun detail? NFS runs on an honour system. You choose the bites of food you want, save your toothpicks, and pay at the end. There’s also an outdoor deck with an amazing view of the city. Also, don’t let the name fool you—you’re allowed to leave your clothes on.
Movida Next Door
Save your next celebration dinner for Movida Next Door. This adventurous tapas restaurant is on the more expensive side, but believe us, it’s worth every bite. These sophisticated, elegant dishes are one-of-a-kind.
All we’re going to say to you is Chorizo-Filled Catalan Potato Bomb with a Spicy Sauce. Okay, and Spicy Chicken Escabeche on Crouton… AND Chargrilled Ox Tongue with Anchovy Salsa Verde. We’re done. We made ourselves hungry and need to go eat.
Have you visited any of these amazing restos? Have a favourite place in Melbourne to recommend? Share in the comments below!
Ugg boots—whether you have ’em or not, every pair comes with an opinion.
Stylish? Hideous? Uggs continue to divide the world over—and have since the early 2000s. Last year, the Huffington Post wrote an article about why Uggs won’t EVER go away (they have become “the winter flip-flop”), while staffers at Vogue fondly reminisced about being pre-teens on a waiting list for their first pair. (Kate Moss had them, okay?)
Why are we telling you this? Long before Ugg boots were sensationalized by the unstoppable power of teenage girls—long may they reign—they came from a land Down Under.
Uggs Were Already “Thing” in the ’70s
Well, not Uggs specifically—the brand itself was invented by an Australian fella named Brian Smith around 1978. Long before that, sheepskin boots had been a staple of Australian surf culture. Comfy and easy to slip on and off, surfer bros and babes in Byron Bay were into it. (Funnily enough, they were most popular with guys first! Get over it dude.)
Smith graduated as a Chartered Accountant in Aus, but he quit that game and headed to Southern California where all the “next big things” were happening. When he realized that there was virtually no sheepskin footwear in America, he thought he’d immediately struck it rich. (Spoiler alert: eventually, yeah.)
The brand picked up traction in the Southern California surf community, but getting the rest of the world on board (heh) wasn’t so simple. How did Uggs break into the market and make it big?
You Love Uggs Because of Hockey Moms and Oprah
According to Smith, the boots were first popular in certain regions and with certain activities” “surfing on the coast, skiiing in the Rockies and ‘hockey Mom’s”‘ in the Northeast.”
He continued to build the brand out through the ’80s and ’90s, offering free pairs to celebrity stylists. Then came the boom. Oprah gave pairs to her entire studio audience during her “Favorite Things” show in 2000, and they continued to explode from there. Soon after, celebs like Beyoncé were spotted wearing them.
Read this back to yourself: a bunch of moms in Massachusetts and Oprah Winfrey—long may SHE reign—were onto Uggs before Beyonce.
Next time your mom tells you something is cool, listen to her.
…And Baywatch?
Another huge boost for the brand was when Pamela Anderson wore Uggs as lifeguarding babe C.J. Parker on the hit show Baywatch. Please go ahead and imagine one of their iconic slow-motion rescue sequences with the addition of your gosh darn comfy winter boots. We’ll wait.
Anderson, who is now a vegan and PETA activist, says she regrets sporting them on the show and leading to their further popularity. However, this anti-endorsement hasn’t stopped the brand from continuing to be huge, adding new designs and colours, expanding world wide.
Love them or hate them, Ugg boots are here to stay. From the golden surfing sands of Oz to Oprah’s closet to New York Fashion Week, there doesn’t seem to be a place they can’t belong. Haters, get on board.
