Top 5 Challenges New Teachers Face in BC and How to Overcome Them

Beginning my teaching journey in British Columbia after working in Ireland was both thrilling and daunting. The shift from Ireland’s structured, prescriptive system to BC’s flexible, competency-based approach was a significant adjustment. The curriculum offered fewer clear guidelines, which felt overwhelming at first. I found my footing by immersing myself in key competencies and connecting with other teachers through workshops and mentorships. Adjusting to the informal assessment style in BC was another challenge, but over time, I came to appreciate its responsiveness to student needs. Building strong relationships in a more diverse classroom, finding work-life balance, and navigating the certification process were all hurdles that I overcame with perseverance and the right support network.