[marshanite]

OH is teaching ICT here in Auckland & whilst there are many aspects we like here, we really want to be near Christchurch. We were advised that it would be hard for OH to find a teaching post in Christchurch (but that was by the agent who gets a commission for placing OH in a 'difficult' school in manurewa).

We don't think that we can afford to live in Auckland longterm on a teacher's salary. The sale of our house seems to be going through in England & we feel a little unsure about shipping all our stuff out here if we find that we cannot afford the lifestyle we came out here for

Can anyone advise us on the best way to track down a job for OH in/near CC - is it realistic to hope to find an ICT teaching job there?

Any input gratefully received.

Fi.

[granger]

Christchurch is seen as a better location than Auckland by many teachers because they get the same salary but housing costs less. As far as I know the same skills shortages apply here as in Auckland but getting a job in one of the better schools may be a bit more competitive. It's certainly realistic to find work here though.

[marshanite]

Thanks granger. That is reassuring. I think that we could survive in Christchurch until the twins are old enough for me to work full time(ish) again. And We did come out for beaches & mountains!
We will keep checking the education gazzette. Do all schools advertise there or would it be worth OH sending a CV to lots of schools?

Thanks again for you input.

Fi.

[granger]

I think sending a CV wouldn't do any harm. If you don't mind the insecurity I know of a couple of people who 'got their foot in the door' and became known by doing relief work so when jobs came up found that because they were known they got the job.

[marshanite]

That's a good idea, but OH would have to do relief work through an agency/company as his 3 yr work permit is attached to the school.
Do you know of any such agencies? We are setting off tomorrow on a campervan adventure for 12 days to check out Christchurch & surrounding areas. Maybe we could visit an agency to discuss it?
Thanks Granger - very helpful.

Best Wishes, Fi.

[granger]

Sorry Fi I don't know about any agencies. I suppose if you're on a work permit rather than having PR it can be a bit of a bind. Maybe you could pick a few schools you'd like to work at in Chch and phone them about relief work anyway mentioning that ultimately you're looking for full time work in ICT. It's a bit long shot but the education scene in Chch seems to be one where someone always knows someone who.... if you know what I mean. So if word gets out you're looking, it can sometimes help you.

[marshanite]

Thanks for the advice - we will give it a try.

Best wishes, Fi.