International Teacher Podcast — Episode 126

Guest: Terence Tong
Host: Greg
Topic: Long-Term Teaching in Kuwait, Career Growth, Mentorship, and International Transitions

Introduction

Greg:
Alright, this is Greg coming at you with another episode of the International Teacher Podcast. I’m flying solo today—Kent, Darian, and Jacqueline are all asleep in various parts of the world.

But I’m joined by Terence Tong, coming to us from Kuwait. Welcome to the show, Terence.

Terence Tong:
Thank you for having me, Greg. I’m happy to be here.

Background and Entry into International Teaching

Greg:
Let’s start with your background and how you got into international teaching.

Terence Tong:
I’m coming up on my 24th year in education. I was born in Hong Kong, grew up in Canada, and began my career teaching in Toronto at small private schools.

Around a milestone age—one I won’t name—I realized I hadn’t traveled much and didn’t feel rooted in Canada yet. In 2006, I took a chance and came to Kuwait on a one-year contract. That one year turned into eight.

During that time, I met my wife, who’s also Canadian. In 2014, we moved to Seoul International School in South Korea, where we spent eight years. Our daughter was born during COVID.

In 2022, we took a sabbatical year in Canada, and in 2023 we returned overseas—back to Kuwait, which felt like an easy re-entry point.

First International Contract and Risk-Taking

Greg:
How did you land that first job overseas?

Terence Tong:
It was late in the school year—May or June. I wasn’t at a job fair or recruitment agency. I stumbled across a job posting for a startup school in Kuwait.

The package was typical—housing, healthcare, flights—and it was a one-year contract. I thought, “What’s 10 months of my life?” I wasn’t tied into a school board or pension system, so I didn’t have much to lose.

Making Kuwait Work Long-Term

Greg:
What kept you in Kuwait for eight years?

Terence Tong:
I learned that no matter where you are, you have to make it work for you. I joined a beach club, played softball and ultimate frisbee, and built friendships beyond just my school.

I also had strong mentorship. A principal challenged me to think beyond just being “content” and encouraged me toward leadership. I pursued a master’s degree, took on middle leadership roles, and experienced real professional growth.

And then I met my wife. That changes everything.

Job Fairs and Rejection

Greg:
You attended a Search Associates job fair in Hong Kong but didn’t land a job. How did that feel?

Terence Tong:
Recruiting is emotionally taxing. You invest time, energy, and hope into each application. Even when you know intellectually that not landing something isn’t failure, it still hurts.

That said, timing matters. I was transparent with my school, didn’t break contract, and returned recommitted. Sometimes the best move is staying put.

Teaching Middle School Across Cultures

Greg:
You’re a middle school language arts teacher. Are students different across countries?

Terence Tong:
Developmentally, middle school students are the same everywhere. The differences lie in culture and expression.

In Kuwait, students often come from very wealthy backgrounds, with extensive support at home. That can affect independence and grit.

In Korea, education is deeply respected. Students work extraordinarily hard—sometimes to unhealthy levels—attending academies late into the night. I’d receive emails from students close to midnight asking for help.

Both systems have strengths and challenges.

Tutoring Culture in Kuwait

Greg:
Let’s talk tutoring.

Terence Tong:
Tutoring in Kuwait can be lucrative, but the definition varies. Sometimes it’s genuine academic support. Other times, families expect teachers to complete work for students.

It reflects broader family dynamics and values, not just education.

Living in the “Expat Bubble”

Greg:
Have you integrated much with Kuwaiti families?

Terence Tong:
Not deeply—and that’s partly due to family life. With a young child, weekends fill quickly.

That said, our daughter’s best friend is Kuwaiti, and those relationships are slowly growing. International school life naturally creates a bubble, which helps with onboarding and transition.

I’d encourage teachers to accept invitations early on. Don’t say no at the beginning—it can shape your entire experience.

Safety and Family Life

Greg:
Is Kuwait safe for families?

Terence Tong:
Absolutely. Safety has never been a concern for us. Kuwait is very family-friendly, structured, and predictable.

Advice to Aspiring International Teachers

Greg:
Final thoughts?

Terence Tong:
There’s never a perfect time to go overseas. If you’re curious, that curiosity matters.

Worst case scenario? Two years. Best case? A transformed life. You’ll return home with broader perspective, deeper empathy, and richer professional insight.

International teaching gave me lifelong friends, professional growth, and my family. I’d encourage anyone on the fence to give it a try.

Closing

Greg:
Terence, thank you. This has been a thoughtful and generous conversation. We’ll definitely have you back.