Living and working as a teacher in Kerala can be a unique and rewarding experience, and offers a wide range of fun adventures for teacher travelers. Here are some exciting activities and adventures you can experience while living and working in Kerala:
- Backwater Houseboat Cruise: Embark on a relaxing houseboat cruise through the serene backwaters of Kerala. Enjoy the scenic beauty, spot wildlife, and experience the unique lifestyle of the local people as you glide through the tranquil waterways.
- Wildlife Safari in Periyar National Park: Explore the Periyar Tiger Reserve in Thekkady and go on a thrilling wildlife safari. Spot elephants, tigers, deer, and a variety of bird species as you venture into the lush forests.
- Trekking in the Western Ghats: The Western Ghats in Kerala offer excellent opportunities for trekking and hiking. Embark on adventurous treks to places like Munnar, Wayanad, and Ponmudi, and enjoy breathtaking views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and mist-covered peaks.
- Bamboo Rafting in Periyar River: Experience the thrill of bamboo rafting in Periyar River, near Thekkady. Navigate through the calm waters surrounded by dense forests and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
- Beach Activities: Kerala boasts beautiful beaches along its coastline. Engage in fun beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. You can also try water sports like surfing, parasailing, and kayaking in popular beach destinations like Kovalam and Varkala.
- Ayurvedic Spa and Wellness Retreats: Kerala is renowned for its traditional Ayurvedic treatments and spa therapies. Indulge in rejuvenating massages, wellness therapies, and Ayurvedic treatments at one of the many renowned spa and wellness centers in the state.
- Kathakali Dance Performance: Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural heritage of Kerala by witnessing a traditional Kathakali dance performance. Kathakali is a classical dance form characterized by elaborate costumes, expressive gestures, and intricate makeup.
- Snake Boat Race: If you visit Kerala during the months of August and September, don’t miss the thrilling snake boat races held during the Onam festival. Watch as teams of rowers compete in long, narrow boats in a spirited race on the backwaters.
- Spice Plantation Tour: Kerala is known as the “Spice Garden of India.” Take a guided tour of spice plantations in destinations like Munnar or Thekkady, and learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of various spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Culinary Adventures: Kerala is a food lover’s paradise. Take a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Kerala dishes like appam, fish curry, and banana leaf meals. You can also explore local street food stalls and savor the flavors of Kerala cuisine.
Here are some facts specifically related to living and working as a teacher in Kerala:
- Education System: Kerala is known for its high literacy rate and strong emphasis on education. The state has a well-developed education system with a focus on quality education and student welfare.
- English Proficiency: English is widely spoken and understood in Kerala, making it easier for English teachers to communicate with students and colleagues. However, it is also common for the local language, Malayalam, to be used in schools and daily life.
- Teacher Vacancies: Kerala has a significant demand for qualified teachers, particularly in subjects like English, mathematics, science, and social studies. Government schools, private schools, and international schools often have vacancies for teaching positions.
- Government Schools: Kerala has a large network of government schools that provide free education to students. Teaching positions in government schools usually come with stable employment, benefits, and a standardized salary structure.
- Private Schools: There are also numerous private schools in Kerala that offer different curricula, including CBSE, ICSE, and international boards. Private schools may offer better salary packages and additional benefits but can have stricter competition for job positions.
- English Medium Schools: English medium schools are popular in Kerala, and English teachers are in demand to provide instruction in English as the medium of instruction. These schools focus on developing students’ English language skills along with the regular curriculum.
- Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL): Kerala has several institutes and language training centers that offer TESL courses for teachers who wish to specialize in teaching English as a second language. These courses can enhance employment prospects and professional development.
- Cultural Diversity: Kerala is known for its cultural diversity and rich traditions. As a teacher in Kerala, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, festivals, and traditions, creating a unique teaching and learning environment.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Kerala is generally lower compared to other Indian states. Housing, transportation, and daily expenses are relatively affordable, allowing teachers to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
- Natural Beauty: Kerala is famous for its natural beauty, backwaters, beaches, and hill stations. As a teacher in Kerala, you can explore and enjoy the scenic landscapes and tourist attractions during weekends and holidays.
- Work-Life Balance: Kerala is known for its laid-back lifestyle and emphasis on work-life balance. Teachers in Kerala often have fixed working hours, giving them ample time to pursue personal interests and explore the state’s offerings.
- Teacher Associations and Professional Development: Kerala has various teacher associations and organizations that provide support, resources, and opportunities for professional development. These associations conduct workshops, seminars, and training programs to enhance teaching skills and knowledge.
These facts provide a general overview of living and working as a teacher in Kerala. It’s recommended to research specific schools, connect with local teaching communities, and explore job opportunities to gather more detailed and up-to-date information.