What is OutSchool and How Do I Apply?

Hello again, unicorn teacher besties! I am excited to share with you my newest teaching online venture! This seems to be the newest trend in the Instagram online teacher community, even though this platform has been around since 2015! The crazy events of 2020 have caused the need for this kind of learning to skyrocket, and they are looking to hire lots of teachers right now! I, of course, drank the Kool-Aid and joined in on the fun, and I’m excited to answer all your questions and tell you all about it! 

What is OutSchool? 

OutSchool is a platform (or website) that offers online classes to students anywhere between the ages of 3-18 all over the world. The classes are designed completely by the teachers and the topics covered are endless! The teacher also has the freedom to choose the age range of the students, the number of students that can attend class, the price of the class per student, and when and how often the class will take place. Besides OutSchool approving the class proposal, the teacher has almost complete freedom over what they want to teach! 

Who Can Teach for OutSchool? 

Surprisingly, OutSchool does not require any specific degrees or backgrounds in education. They encourage teaching about your experiences and interests and don’t believe formal education is necessary to be great at teaching these things. You must, however, be a citizen or resident of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or the United Kingdom (as per their website). They do also require a background check before you start teaching. 

What is the Application Process Like? 

The application process is simple and quick! Or maybe it just felt that way after jumping through all the hoops I did to work for VIPKID. You just need to fill out the usual basic information about yourself, along with some information about what you’re interested in teaching on the platform. I suggest keeping this general. There will be more important places for specifics later, after you’re hired.

Cameras, Lights, ACTION!

You will also have to attach a 30-60 second video to your application. Don’t overthink your video! Keep it simple and simply introduce yourself! You’ll be surprised how fast 30 seconds goes by! Film yourself in a quiet, well lit area. Dress professionally or at least in your best teacher tee (which is what I did!). Introduce yourself, talk about what you love to teach, thank them for the opportunity, and end the video! That’s it! Send it off! 

It may take a few days to hear back. Be patient! When you hear back, they will ask for information for a background check. The background check should be fast after you submit your information. And then, you’re in! 

Once the hiring process is finished, you will need to complete your teacher profile. You will need to make another video that will live on your profile and introduce you to your potential students and their parents. I think you could get a little fancier with this video if you wanted to, but it’s not necessary. Introduce yourself, tell a little about your teaching experience, and mention what you will be offering. That’s it! 

If you’re still not feeling confident, here is a YouTube video with tips about the process by one of my best teacher buddies Lauren!

Are you ready? I believe in you! Here is my referral link. Send me an email or message me on Instagram if you use it, and I will be happy to help you with any questions you might have! I’m always up for making a new teacher friend too!