They are on the look out for bright, enthusiastic young people who love kids and know their subject areas very well. Often times these schools are looking for people who can teach, supervise extracurricular activities, and coach athletic teams. Boarding schools also need dormitory supervisors. The rewards, however, are many. Students are generally well-motivated.
Parents typically are supportive.
Individual teachers usually have a great deal of flexibility and autonomy in setting their own curriculum. Innovative ideas can usually be put straight into practice without going through a great deal of bureaucratic red tape. Some people find that two years of teaching in this type of environment is a great transition from college to graduate school or to other professions. Many people find that this is a great long-term career choice. The best way to pursue a teaching job in an independent school is to contact one of the national placement agencies.