Does China even need an introduction? A country that features the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, diverse scenery, historical culture and modern bustling metropolises has a little bit of everything. With thousands of years of rich history and culture mixed with the country’s thriving economy and modern advancements China really is a must visit country!
Teaching English in China is highly recommended for those seeking to travel and experience the rich culture and history of this nation. Apply today. You can find TEFL jobs in most major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Harbin, Shezhen, Chongqing, and more.
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Reasons to Teach in China
China is a nation of 1.3 billion people and English has always been a popular foreign language. With increased Western influence and the hosting of 2008’s Summer Olympics, the popularity of English is greater than ever, with children, students, professionals and adults all determined to improve their English language skills.
Popular Teaching Destinations
The city of Beijing is the cultural and political HUB of China, and played host to the Olympic Games in 2008, Beijing also features the Forbidden Wall and is in close proximity to the Great Wall.
Mega cities Shanghai and Hong Kong will dazzle your every senses. Xi’an is a former ancient capital of China and features the famous terracotta warriors while serving as the gateway to the Silk Road.
There are plentiful opportunities to travel while teaching in China and even more to consider once your contract is done. You will never run out of places to see in China.
Guide to Teaching in China
Is it Easy to Find Work?
ESL teachers are in great demand in China. With increasing wages it is becoming more of a competitive market in relation to working conditions in Japan, Korea and Taiwan. Teaching hours are typically 15-25 hours but office hours may push the work week closer to 40.
Do I need a TEFL course?
For China, a TEFL certificate is not needed for some employers. However completing a TEFL course will really make teaching easier if you choose to teach there.
Visas
To teach or work in China you must have a Z visa. Single entry Z visas are available relatively easily if you have proof of an offer of employment, but multiple entry visas are much more expensive and difficult to get. A Z visa costs around US$30 (or more depending on where you get it) if you are willing to wait a week or US$60 (or more) if you need it in a day.
Requirements
If you are area native English speaker, hold a BA/BS degree (in any discipline) or higher by the time of departure, have leadership, interpersonal, social, and public speaking skills and be between the age of 20-60 and in good health then you stand a great chance of being hired.
Your employer will sponsor your visa. China is one of the few countries in Asia that hires teachers without degrees; however, larger urban centres and more prestigious jobs require at least a BA. Arranging a visa can take 1-3 months so getting on top of your application and applying early for positions is highly recommended.
Some other requirements can include:
• Enjoy leading groups and teaching children and/or adults
• Good lesson planning and organization skills
• Open to foreign cultures and living abroad
• High level of responsibility
• Dedication to the full term of commitment
• Health tests and immunizations to obtain the proper work permit-Class Z. (e.g.: EKG, HIV test, tetanus, hepatitis, typhoid, etc)
• A criminal background check may be required by some schools and positions
Monthly Salary
5000 to 14,000 RMB = 800 to 2200 USD.Your pay will work out roughly as $750 – $2500 per month depending on the employer and position. This may not sound much compared to some teaching abroad destinations but remember your accommodation is free and the cost of living is very low. Your salary as an English teacher in China will be enough to live a comfortable lifestyle and save for trips around China and to other countries in Asia!
Benefits
One of the perks is that housing is usually provided and roundtrip airfare is almost always provided or reimbursed to a certain percentage. Health insurance and paid vacation are standard in most contracts. Income tax falls between 5-25.
Other benefits include:
• The satisfaction of helping others
• An opportunity to broaden your perspective and worldview
• An economical way to live and travel abroad
• An opportunity to participate in and learn local cultural activities (e.g.: language, taiqi, calligraphy, cooking)
• Memorable travel experiences with the chance to see exotic sites you have always dreamed about
• The ability to make lifelong friends from around the globe
• A valuable work experience that strengthens your resume
• A great way to develop and support your self-confidence and interpersonal skills
Working Hours
Expect to teach an average of 20-35 hours a week, with students ranging from private academies, public elementary and secondary schools, universities, and the professional ranks. China includes English in their school’s curriculum at a young age, so most are proficient with English reading and writing, but are shy and embarrassed to practice their conversational skills.
Language
Classroom experience and knowledge of the Chinese language are helpful, but not required.
China TEFL Testimonials
“Overall I’d say my life in China has been absolutely amazing, I’ve made so many new friends from all over the world. I first came to China in August, after doing my TEFL course certificate. I’d never been to China before and I’d never taught before so I was sort of throwing myself in the deep end but it’s definitely been worthwhile and it’s been an adventure.” – Graham – China TEFL teacher
‘We have been teaching in the city of Changchun, Jilin Province, China. We are still enjoying it very much and enjoying learning about a new culture! The people are very welcoming and the education system is a lot stricter here compared to other Asian countries like teaching in Thailand. The parents too are a lot stricter on their children so the kids are motivated in a different way to the Thai kids.’ – Shenene and Shanna