Not every employer asks for one, but a concise professional portfolio can strengthen an application by showing planning, assessment, reflection, professional learning and classroom impact without exposing confidential student information.
Map the route before choosing a course
International-school recruitment is shaped by the school, curriculum, subject, country and immigration rules. For “Do I Need a Teaching Portfolio for International School Jobs”, work backwards from the target role and identify the qualifications, experience and evidence the employer actually expects.
What to check for the actual role
A portfolio is most useful when it shows evidence rather than decoration: sample planning, assessment approaches, professional-development records, reflections and anonymised examples of classroom practice where appropriate.
Evidence to check
- The exact role and learner group
- The academic or teacher-registration requirement
- The experience and skills employers expect
- The course content and assessment that address your remaining gap
How LCT UK training may fit
Completed LCT assignments, lesson plans or projects may help you reflect on your practice, but only include material in a job portfolio where you have permission and where it demonstrates a skill relevant to the employer.
Preparing for ‘international schools’ as if they were one uniform sector. Requirements differ by country, curriculum, school, subject and level of responsibility.
Practical next steps
- Define the exact teaching role, learner age group and country or sector.
- Check academic, teacher-registration and employer requirements before choosing additional training.
- Compare your current knowledge and experience with the role’s expectations.
- Choose the LCT course only where its curriculum and assessment address a specific gap.
Bottom line
Not every employer asks for one, but a concise professional portfolio can strengthen an application by showing planning, assessment, reflection, professional learning and classroom impact without exposing confidential student information. Match the training to the real role requirement and verify any external licensing, registration or employment condition separately.
Relevant London College of Teachers pathways
International Teaching DiplomaSpecial Education & SEN Teacher TrainingTEFL & TESOL Courses
Related Teacher Answers
- What Is an International Teaching Diploma?
- Who Should Take an International Teaching Diploma?
- Is an International Teaching Diploma Enough for an International School Job?
- Do International Teachers Need a Teaching Licence?
- How Much Experience Do I Need for an International School Job?
Sources and further reading
This information is general educational guidance. For regulated teaching, visas, work permits, licensing or registration, confirm current requirements with the relevant authority and employer. Read our editorial standards.