where to go from here
Hi again Birdlady.
I,m also from the UK and have just spent the last 3 years travelling back and forth to the UK as well as a stint in Gabon.I`m now flying a Caravan in Sudan so stay positive.
I`ve been to a flew flying schools in my time and i can recommend trying the guys at Phoebus Apollo at Rand.They are a great bunch and very professional.I done my instructor rating there last year.You may also get the chance to fly on their DC3 and DC4 aircraft.
As for getting an instructor job you will need to be very lucky without a work permit.I was very lucky and did 170hrs of instruction without one getting paid cash in hand.
However a Irish friend of mine has just landed a job and he sorted out his work permit on his own in the space of a week, so it can be done.
You could also look into gaining a Caravan type rating with some time on type.It will help in getting a job on contract.
I hope this has been of some help.
Good luck