A Guide to International School Curriculums: What They Are, Where They’re Taught, and How to Qualify
A Guide to International School Curriculums: What They Are, Where They’re Taught, and How to Qualify
1 January 2026 Gareth Adams
Teaching overseas is an exciting career move, but one of the first questions many educators ask is: Which curriculum will I be teaching — and what qualifications do I need?
International schools around the world follow a variety of globally recognised curriculums, each with its own philosophy, assessment style, and teacher requirements. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right pathway for your skills, experience, and career goals.
Below is a guide to the most common international curriculums, where they are popular, and what qualifications schools typically expect.
British Curriculum (English National Curriculum)
Overview
The British Curriculum, also known as the English National Curriculum, is one of the most widely taught curriculums internationally. It follows the same structure as schools in England, progressing through Early Years, Key Stages 1–3, and culminating in GCSEs and A Levels.
Where it’s popular
United Arab Emirates
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
China
Hong Kong
Singapore
Spain
Thailand
Qualifications required
Most schools require:
UK-recognised teaching qualification (PGCE, PGDE, or equivalent)
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) (strongly preferred)
Experience teaching the British Curriculum (often 1–2 years)
British schools abroad tend to favour teachers trained in the UK, particularly for core subjects and leadership roles.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Overview
The International Baccalaureate (IB) offers a highly regarded, inquiry-based approach to education. It includes four programmes:
PYP (Primary Years Programme)
MYP (Middle Years Programme)
DP (Diploma Programme)
CP (Career-related Programme)
The IB is known for academic rigour, global mindedness, and critical thinking.
Where it’s popular
Europe (particularly Switzerland, Germany, Netherlands)
United States
Canada
United Arab Emirates
Singapore
Japan
Australia
Qualifications required
Schools typically look for:
A recognised teaching qualification (PGCE, BEd, etc.)
IB training or certification (often provided after appointment)
Experience with inquiry-based or concept-driven teaching
IB experience is highly valued and can significantly enhance long-term international career prospects.
American Curriculum
Overview
The American Curriculum is broad, flexible, and student-centred. It often includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses at high school level and focuses on continuous assessment rather than terminal exams.
Where it’s popular
Middle East (UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia)
China
South Korea
Latin America
Europe
Qualifications required
Most schools require:
A recognised teaching qualification
US state teaching licence or equivalent international qualification
Experience with the American system (preferred but not always essential)
Teachers from the UK are often welcomed, particularly in international schools with mixed teaching staff.
Cambridge International (IGCSE & A Levels)
Overview
Cambridge Assessment International Education offers internationally recognised qualifications including Cambridge IGCSEs and International A Levels. These are often used alongside or as an alternative to the British Curriculum.
Where it’s popular
Africa
Middle East
South-East Asia
India
Eastern Europe
Qualifications required
Schools usually expect:
A recognised teaching qualification
Strong subject knowledge
Experience teaching exam-based courses
Cambridge schools are popular with teachers who enjoy structured syllabi and academic depth.
International Primary Curriculum (IPC)
Overview
The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) is used in primary schools and focuses on thematic, child-centred learning, combining academic, personal, and international goals.
Where it’s popular
United Kingdom
Middle East
Europe
Asia
Qualifications required
Typically:
Primary teaching qualification
Experience with enquiry-based or thematic learning
IPC training (often provided by the school)
International Montessori
Overview
**Montessori education emphasises independence, hands-on learning, and mixed-age classrooms. It is especially common in Early Years and Primary settings.
Where it’s popular
Europe
United States
Middle East
India
South-East Asia
Qualifications required
Schools generally require:
Montessori certification (AMI, AMS, or equivalent)
Early Years or Primary teaching qualification (often preferred)
Final Thoughts
International schools offer diverse teaching environments, excellent professional development opportunities, and the chance to live and work around the world. While UK-trained teachers are in high demand, many schools value transferable skills and provide curriculum-specific training after appointment.