Teaching in China

Teaching in China – Asian College of Teachers (ACT)

With a population of 1.357 billion, China is very popular with plenty of interesting job opportunities and fascinating culture. China is culturally as well as economically well- developed and the country gives massive importance to education. Therefore, there is a huge demand for certified and skilled teachers. With the diverse landscape of the Gobi and Taklamakan Deserts, China is the home of one of the world’s oldest civilizations.

The educational scenario in China is changing rapidly. The role of teachers is also constantly changing. Furthermore, teaching techniques also have undergone a major change as it is not limited to traditional methods anymore. As China is becoming the second largest economy in recent times, hence, the country offers great job opportunities to aspiring and qualified teachers. However, to teach in China, you need to be prepared mentally, academically, financially and emotionally.

Updated Educational Requirements to Teach in China

To teach legally in China, you must:

• Have graduated from a recognized university with at least a bachelor’s degree
• Complete a globally recognized 120-hour TEFL course (for teaching English)
• A native English-speaking country or near native proficiency for ESL jobs
• A criminal background checks
• A valid passport
• Teaching experience (Beneficial)
• Be between 18 and 60 years of age (men) and 55 (women)
• Pass two Medical Checks

Additionally, you will need to show your strong resilience and adaptability to become a teacher in China.

Updated Visa Requirements for Teaching in China

The Chinese government does not recognize dual nationality. Getting a Chinese work visa (Z visa) can sometimes be stressful and a little expensive. But, don’t worry, if you have suitable documents from an experienced school, gaining a work visa should be straightforward. Also, your employer will offer a letter of acceptance and help you get a work permit. This whole process can take between 4 to 8 weeks and the organization will aid you through the process.

Along with the work visa (Z visa), you will require residence authorization and a medical clearance uttering that you are free of TB, HIV, and any kind of drugs. We strongly recommend reading your teaching English contract to understand if your company will pay for your visa along with the related fees or not.

There is also the F Visa. This is also referred to frequently as a business visa. In fact, some institutes may help educators in obtaining an F Visa rather than a Z Visa. F visas are much quicker to acquire than Z visas.

Major Types of Teaching Jobs in China

Successful candidates will start their teaching career in International schools, Private language schools, Public schools, Kindergartens, and Universities and Colleges.

Though schools in China generally hire English teachers year-round, the topmost hiring season is the month of November.

Teach in China - International Schools

Most of the international teaching jobs in China are to be found in large cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Chengdu and Qingdao. There are more opportunities in Shanghai and Beijing as well. Competition is severe in Tier 1 cities like Beijing and Shanghai.

The majority of international schools are westernized and deliver an internationally accepted curriculum. Also, instead of a winter break, some schools give a long break at the Chinese New Year (or Spring Festival), between January and February. The hiring process usually starts in October or November.

Common teaching vacancies include early years, primary, and secondary teaching openings, principal and coordinator positions, etc. While searching, you will also see the vacancies for special needs teachers and learning support roles, as well as school counsellors and teacher librarians too.

To teach in international schools, competent aspirants need to hold –

• A bachelor’s degree
• A teaching license issued by the aspirant's home country
• At least two years of full-time teaching experience
• PGCE, QTS or similar
• A TEFL/TESOL certification
• Legal ‘Z’ work visa

At present, a huge number of Chinese students are enrolled in international schools. Generally, international schools in China are categorized by world-class school accommodations with smaller class sizes.

Teach in China - Private Language Schools in China

Another popular option for certified and skilled ESL teachers is teaching English in private language schools. You will mostly find jobs in bigger cities as the demand tends to be higher than in the countryside parts of the country. Generally, the class sizes run on the smaller side (typically 15-17 students). Also, the age of your learners will differ depending on where you want to work.

To teach English as a second language or foreign language in private language schools, competent aspirants need to hold –

• A bachelor’s degree
• A teaching license issued by the aspirant's home country
• A TEFL/TESOL certification
• Legal ‘Z’ work visa

Furthermore, the requirements of private language schools or center for ESL teachers is not as stringent as that in public schools in China. However, if you choose a 9-5 steady teaching job, then working at a private language school is not right for you.

Teach in China - Public Schools in China

When it comes to public schools in China, the options are - Elementary schools, Middle schools and High schools. Class sizes are quite notoriously big in Chinese public schools. However, you will get a local teaching assistant by your side. You’ll also benefit from extended school vacations off work.

Generally, Chinese public schools have two teacher openings per year: the start of the Academic Year is late August, and the start of the Spring Semester is late February. Teaching in a public school in China is very rewarding with its own set of challenges. Usually, schools will deliver a set curriculum with resources and some additional materials. You will be responsible for improving your students’ speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. Generally, Chinese public schools have fewer overseas staff compared with private language schools.

To teach in public schools, competent aspirants need to be –

• Resilience and adaptive mindset
• Strong communication skills and a flexible attitude
• Bachelor’s degree in any subject is a must
• A TEFL/TESOL certification
• Between 22 and 55 years old
• Legal ‘Z’ work visa

Teach in China - Kindergartens in China

Teaching Kindergartens in China is a very satisfying career. Nevertheless, teaching very young learners is not a cup of tea for everyone. It requires patience and temperament. Kindergartens in China come in all shapes and sizes. Most kindergartens in China are full- day curricula.

You will see some kindergartens that are involved with international schools have huge resources and are quite expensive. These types of Kindergartens follow an international program with Christmas and Summer holidays as well as the normal Chinese holidays.

Apart from the international Kindergartens, you will find government-licensed and private kindergartens too. These types of kindergartens typically follow a Chinese curriculum with English as an additional focus. They generally follow the Chinese school calendar with Chinese national holidays.

Furthermore, western kindergartens are play-based and focused mainly on holistic growth. While in Chinese kindergartens, lately more emphasis has been placed on holistic growth. Chinese kindergartens are generally a blend of language classes, math, art, music, physical along with general knowledge.

To teach in kindergartens, competent aspirants need to be –

• Strong communication skills and a flexible attitude
• Bachelor’s degree in any subject is a must
• 22 – 60 years old
• 120 hours of TEFL/TESOL certificate
• Previous experience in a kindergarten is ideal

Kindergartens in China frequently welcome educators who demonstrate passion and care toward kids.

Teach in China - Universities and Colleges

Needless to say, teaching jobs at universities and colleges are extremely sought-after and respected positions. The class size will differ from smaller study groups of 6 to 12 students to larger lectures of 30 to 50 students.

Additionally, universities and colleges provide good resources for teachers like projectors, computers and interactive whiteboards, etc. The job is extremely engaging and lucrative. You will get comparatively more freedom regarding how you plan and deliver your classes.

To teach in universities and colleges, skilled aspirants need to be –

• Strong communication skills and a flexible attitude
• Native English speaker or non-native with fluent English and a clear accent
• Bachelor’s degree in any subject
• TEFL/TESOL certificate
• Earlier English teaching experience
• Between 24 and 55 years old

Land a Teaching Job in China

For a very long time, China is quite renowned for offering high teaching salaries with a great standard of living. The country demands a firm set of requirements from overseas teachers. Before doing anything else, you need to understand which teaching job in China would suit you. Be flexible and realistic with your career.

Start your applications about 5 months earlier than the start of each term. The best schools mostly work with reliable recruiters to discover overseas teachers. Therefore, always work with the right recruiters. Find a trustworthy recruitment agency. Don’t forget to submit your introduction video.

Well, apart from teaching, there are a few alternative careers for foreigners and ex-pats in China as well. China has a long extensive history of educational administration system. A qualified candidate will find various school management jobs in China. Competitive salary + family benefits are the perks of these kinds of jobs in China. School management jobs deliver great professional development along with career progression! If you are passionate about education, a career in curriculum development is also a good fit for you. You will get enough opportunities in China if you have the right credentials.

Some of the other lucrative careers associated with education in China are –

• Child care center director
• Training coordinator
• Senior program coordinator
• Curriculum manager
• Instructional designer
• Learning specialist
• Education consultant
• Associate professor
• Curriculum leader

Most of the teaching jobs are frequently advertised on WeChat.

Common Perks for Teachers in China

Teaching English in China will boost your international teaching career. Moreover, the country is thrilling and constantly evolving. China offers competitive teaching salaries and an extensive array of benefits with a vast choice of sites. A lot of jobs provide allowed perks like flight reimbursement, housing, visa fees, Chinese lessons and so on. Some establishments may also offer a completion bonus or a one-time payment. These advantages are comprised together with your monthly salary.

Popular Places to Teach in China

There are limitless educational careers for foreign teaching jobs in China. We recommend doing your research before coming to China. The major and popular cities for teaching in China are –

Shanghai

Shanghai is the world’s biggest city. The city is a diverse city drenched in technological developments. It’s also tremendously well-connected by subways. You will find a huge number of foreign teachers from all across the globe.

Beijing

Beijing is China’s vibrant capital. It’s the cultural heart of this country. The place is rich in culture and you will have a lot of things to do. You can visit various historical sites such as the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City. Skilled teachers can find jobs in Business English, private academies and public schools. Beijing is also the perfect place for English speakers to learn Mandarin lessons.

Guangzhou

This is the apt place for culture junkies and is the third largest of China’s cities. The city is the home of Pearl River and they make their own beer. You will witness startling skyscrapers, museums and the massive Temple of the Six Banyan Trees. Guess what, the cost of living is considerably cheaper than in Beijing or Shanghai!

Ningbo

Ningbo is a doorway to the rest of China. Ningbo is the home to numerous international businesses and emigrants. It is considered a business hub. This city is an association of the old and new lifestyles.

Hangzhou

If you meet the requirements, you can find teaching positions in private academies, public schools and even universities. There’s a sufficient number of cultural and historical spots. This peaceful city is a picture-perfect spot for people who like a quiet environment. Here, you will experience a different side of China.

Live & Teach in China

Did you know China has four megacities of over 10 million people? It is the highest number of any country in the world. Buddhism is the major religion.

The country is home to more than 1.35 billion people. The People’s Republic of China boasts an antique history and rich culture with miscellaneous cuisine. The country is also now one of the economic superpowers in the world. The cost of living in China is significantly cheaper compared to western countries.

In China, numerous individuals will greet with a nod, wave, or handshake. Always remove your shoes while entering a Chinese household. Never write someone's name in red. Traditional custom also holds that it is unhealthy to swallow phlegm. You will hear loud conversations. China has the second highest number of UNESCO world heritage sites.

Be ready for a cultural shock. Chinese food in the rest of the world is great, but it’s far better in China! When we talk about food, you can eat street food without getting sick. Street food isn’t scary all the time. Furthermore, if you live in China, it's vital to invest in a good air purifier for your apartment. In China, WeChat (similar to WhatsApp) will become your life. Coffee is expensive in China. It is also seen as a luxury.

Latest COVID-19 Measures and Updates

COVID19 has made things a lot more complicated in China. Earlier schools could invite any educator that met the key requirements for a Z-visa, but now there’s an added requirement called a PU letter. These are basically special licences, issued by the Chinese administration to a select number of institutes, and on a fragmentary basis. Establishments continue to execute tighter controls in zones with COVID-19 activity. Bigger health showings will probably continue.