News: The Most International Boarding School in the World - May 31, 2018
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Thursday, May 31, 2018School Spotlights

The Most International Boarding School in the World

EF Academy, New York (EFA), an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School established in 2004, has joined Search Associates. This boarding school, which enrolls approximately 750 students from Grades 9–12, is surrounded by 100 acres of landscaped grounds in quiet, suburban Thornwood, just a 40-minute train ride from New York City's Grand Central Station. Indeed, the excitement of school trips into Manhattan for experienced-based learning can only be matched by the opportunity for students to explore a traditional American high school education with a global twist. The school explains,

"Few high schools in the world offer the level of internationalism and diversity we have in our student body, which is made up of more than 75 different nationalities."

The EFA campus is characterized by the many pathways, trails, and woodland surrounding its academic and residence buildings, but the tranquil natural setting is complemented by the school’s impressive facilities. A beautiful auditorium for theater students, science labs with state-of-the-art equipment, and art studios enrich learning opportunities while inspiring students. A fully-equipped gym, dance studio, and basketball courts promote physical well-being, but there is nothing like getting some fresh air by going on a bike ride around the eight kilometers of off-road trails on campus with one of the school’s mountain bikes. Conveniently, just down the hill from the school is Rose Hill Shopping Center, a small plaza with restaurants and shops.

In addition to the IB Diploma Programme, EFA offers the International General Certificate of Secondary Education. The school is endorsed by the Cambridge International Examinations, the New York State Department of Education, and the Independent Schools Association. The teaching staff of 70 includes 65 from North America and five from the U.K., and students reap the benefits of a 7:1 student-faculty ratio. The acceptance rate to university degree programs is 100%.

At EFA, there are over 120 clubs and activities for students to join. The STEM program allows students to compete in math competitions and tinker with robots. In business-themed clubs, students can try to solve case-study problems and turn business ideas into reality. Student-generated works of theater, music, and art are on view in the halls, at exhibitions, and in plays and performances. Excursions into Manhattan—and sometimes to London—serve to delight and inspire both artists and future business leaders. Students can also volunteer in the local community, play a varsity sport, or seek leadership positions by joining the Student Council.

EFA is interested in hiring singles and couples, including those with a non-teaching spouse. The school will also consider: outstanding, experienced teachers without certification; those certified in non-English speaking countries; and exceptional, newly-certified teachers. Candidates need not hold a degree in the subject they will be teaching. While there is no age limit to obtain a visa, the school cautions that candidates without a green card would find it difficult to do so. 

Benefits include a 100% tuition benefit for up to two children of high school age. (Younger children of faculty would need to attend a local public school.) Worldwide health insurance—including dental, life insurance, and long-term disability—is covered, with the employee paying a percentage. EFA subsidizes all meals, provides professional development, and contributes 10% to a retirement plan. An EFA contract offers great potential for savings, and there are local employment opportunities for non-teaching spouses.

To gain access to EF Academy, New York's full profile on the Search Associates database, including a list of all open positions, candidates can apply for membership by clicking here. Candidates already registered can easily access the school profile directly through their dashboards. 

Please Note: The information presented about this school was valid on the date published. This information may change, and the most up-to-date information can be found on the school profile.


Did You Know…?

Senior Associate Ray Sparks's over 30-year career as an educator has involved working in Canada, Europe, and Asia.