The recent Search Associates Toronto Job Fair, organized by Gary MacPhie, Senior Associate for Canada, and his wife Barbara, was a resounding success, connecting top-tier international schools with highly qualified teacher candidates eager to take their careers abroad. The event, which brought together 27 schools and 40 recruiters from North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, provided an incredible opportunity for educators to explore over 200 job openings at prestigious institutions worldwide.
With 99 candidates in attendance—primarily from Canada, but with several from the U.S.—the fair served as a launching pad for many teachers embarking on international careers. On hand to support participants were Search Associates Brian Lettinga, Senior Associate for U.S, and his wife Anna; Mei-Lyn Freeman, School Coordinator; and Nazgol Adili, Director of Candidate Relations.
The smaller fair allowed for a high level of engagement, leading to candidates securing multiple interviews and offers. Now, candidates are heading to exciting locations in Mexico, Brazil, Kuwait, China, Myanmar, Hong Kong and Lebanon—a testament to the fair’s effectiveness in connecting top-tier schools and exceptional educators.
The MacPhies were excited to welcome three new Canadian curriculum international schools to the Search Associates family, which joined specifically to attend the Toronto Search Fair: Canadian College Italy, Neuchatel Junior College Switzerland, and Sunway International School in Malaysia. They also hosted the Canadian Overseas Schools Association, which represents Alberta curriculum schools in Cambodia, China and Macao.
A Historic Venue: One King West Hotel
The fair was held at One King West Hotel, an iconic boutique hotel in downtown Toronto. Known for its ornate high ceilings and tall arched windows, the venue exudes historic charm and elegance while seamlessly integrating modern conference facilities. This blend of old-world grandeur and contemporary convenience provided an inspiring setting for networking, interviews, and professional development.
Comprehensive Support and Professional Development
Beyond networking and interviews, the fair offered extensive professional development resources to support candidates in their international teaching journey. Participants benefitted from 20 school presentations and five targeted workshops:
- Interview Tips
- Introduction to the International Baccalaureate
- Evaluating Job Offers
- Moving Overseas and Loving It
- Canadian Non-Resident Tax Presentation sponsored by Trowbridge Professional Corp
These workshops ensured candidates were well-prepared, confident, and informed as they navigated job offers and career decisions.
A Strong Partnership with Queen’s University
This was Search Toronto’s second year of its strategic partnership with Queen’s University, confirming a joint commitment to fostering educational excellence and global connectivity. Led by Dr. Peter Chin, Associate Dean of Teacher Education, the Queen’s delegation included Dr. Jane Chin, Assistant Professor; Jessica Della-Latta, Executive Director, Strategy & Global Engagement; and Jenna Snelgrove, Academic and Career Advisor.
Several school leaders took the opportunity to talk to Queen’s about possible partnerships for practicum and internships in their schools, and bringing professional development to their faculty. Dr. Chin highlighted the significance of Queen’s collaboration with Search Toronto:
Search Associates is synonymous with quality job fairs and the importance of rigour in ensuring that high-calibre schools are matched with top teaching talent. Our partnership helps raise the bar for international education globally.
Dr. Jane Chin emphasized the value the partnership brings to Queen’s students:
Our students gain access to well-vetted, accredited international schools and receive ongoing support beyond the job fair. Search Associates provides expertise and resources that we don’t necessarily have at the university. For our newly qualified teachers to have access to that kind of information and support is fantastic.
Real Voices: Candidate Success Stories
The impact of the fair was felt by many who attended, as reflected in the heartfelt testimonials:
"I am very excited about this opportunity. Thank you for organizing the event—I would've never thought that I would be moving to Hong Kong!" – Sally P., hired by Victoria Educational Organisation, Hong Kong.
"The Toronto Fair gave me valuable insight into the world of international teaching. I left feeling more confident in my decision to pursue a career abroad." – Sara D.
"So grateful for Search Associates’ assistance in getting this job! I went into the fair not knowing this country, and now I am beyond joyous to go and work at this phenomenal school." – Sophia V., hired by Ayeyarwaddy International School, Myanmar.
"This fair was a great opportunity to connect with a huge range of schools across the world. Because of this fair I was hired in my first international teaching position, which I am extremely excited to begin. Thank you to everyone that helped create this fair!" – Jason Grant, hired by American Community School, Beirut, Lebanon.
Recruiters Weigh In: Why In-Person Fairs Matter
Recruiters also lauded the fair as an essential part of the hiring process, emphasizing the value of face-to-face interactions in making the right hires:
"In-person job fairs allow us to connect with candidates beyond their resumes. They provide an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, assess cultural fit, and build authentic connections." – Karina Cesar, American School Foundation Monterrey, Mexico
"Attending a job fair in person demonstrates a candidate's commitment to seeking employment at an international school, highlighting their dedication and proactive approach. In-person interviews foster a stronger rapport between the candidate and recruiter, as face-to-face conversations allow for more natural, authentic interactions. Additionally, these events offer multiple opportunities for candidates and recruiters to reconnect, continue discussions, ask follow-up questions, or provide further information, ensuring a more thorough and engaging exchange." – Scott Dennison, AIS Mandalay, Myanmar
"Recruitment fairs allow schools to engage directly with a large pool of potential candidates in a short amount of time. Hiring managers, principals, and department heads can assess a candidate's interpersonal skills, professionalism, and enthusiasm on the spot. This face-to-face interaction helps schools gauge whether a candidate’s personality and values align with the institution's culture." – Santino, Bellisario, Canadian College Italy
"The Search Job Fair was a wonderful way for educators to explore the different opportunities around the world. Exploring these options virtually can feel overwhelming and less personal. An in-person fair allows candidates to connect with school leaders, HR teams, and recruiters. The ability to engage in real-time conversations and build rapport leads to a deeper understanding of a school’s culture, expectations, and vision. These are critical factors when making a life-changing career decision and finding the right fit." – Luke Woodruff, Quality Schools International
A Launchpad for International Teaching Careers
The Search Associates Toronto Job Fair proved once again why in-person recruitment fairs remain an indispensable tool in the international education landscape. By connecting passionate educators with world-class schools, offering expert guidance, and fostering invaluable networking opportunities, the event set the stage for dozens of teachers to embark on fulfilling careers overseas.
