The only reason I posted is for an honest answer and tips on when to apply and where I'll be most competitive. I'm not delusional - I've spent a lot of time over the last few days reading hundreds of posts. I've seen who's applying for the best schools and their credentials and Western Europe is considered a retirement spot. But there's a lot more to Europe than just those countries. I was more wondering along the lines of the lower schools (which I would have a chance at, I don't expect every school to be one of the top), mainly in Prague, Budapest, Bucharest, etc. All places I would love to live as I have experience there and RyanAir is a wonderful resource to travel. I'm just not to sure where yet and how I'd go about finding these particular schools.

I thought that travel experience would bolster an application as it shows you can succesfully navigate a foreign country and wouldn't be overwhelmed by it, thus more likely to leave before your contract ends? Besides, those were mostly personal motivations as opposed to things that made me a stronger applicant.

I'm doing the EPI program through Valencia College starting in a few days (same course as TeacherReady). Just wondering what everyone's experience with it has been and how getting hired after completion. I'm guessing I should do my tests ASAP so when I complete the course I can apply straight away for my certificate.

Suggestions?

This may seem premature to some, but in the past I've done things just a bit too late and missed out on some great opportunities.

A little about me - I'm just starting my teacher accreditation program to becoming a certified secondary Chemistry teacher. I got my BS in Chem and also had a minor in German. I finished school two years ago and spent that time working in England, Holland, and Spain. I've traveled all over the world and hope that my new career can bring me many new experiences in new places.

I plan on applying to UK schools under the tier 2 national shortage occupation scheme, but I've started looking into international schools and I'm very interested. While I'd love living anywhere in the world, Europe is a big draw for me as I have experience living over there, friends, language skills, etc etc.

What are my chances in getting one of these highly coveted positions? I'm hoping that my background and science experience will be a bonus but I'd love some direction from people with experience. Any schools that I'd have a shot at? Also, I graduate in December, so I'd be missing out on the main hiring time. I've heard I could try to get one of the jobs for someone who decides it's not for them. Obviously I'll try to get a job for the following school year and work in the mean time, but I'd love a timeline for applying if someone could help me out.

Thanks!