As a former British colony until 1997, Hong Kong has its own unique culture and legal system while being part of China. English and Cantonese are Hong Kong’s two official languages, yet the city’s population is 98 percent Chinese, therefore there is a constant demand for English instructors, as well as occasional needs for teachers of other languages and disciplines. In spite of the city’s tiny size and 7.5 million residents, there are several chances for employment and entertainment in this cosmopolitan hub.
How to Teach English in Hong Kong
A bachelor’s degree and two years of previous teaching experience in Hong Kong are often required for most English language instructors looking to work there. An average monthly wage for a Hong Kong teacher ranges from HK$3,400 to HK$7,400.
All the Different Ways You Can Make Money Working as an English teacher in the Chinese city of Hong Kong
The Advantages of Attending a Private Language School
The majority of ESL employment in Hong Kong may be found in private language institutes. Students of diverse ages attend these institutions, although the majority of them are high school students studying for examinations. The city’s retail landscape is dominated by both national and international names (such as Berlitz).
There are a few private language schools in Hong Kong that are looking for instructors of various languages, including Spanish and French. As a worldwide economic hub and an international metropolis, many students are interested in learning a variety of languages.
School Districts (Elementary & Secondary)
It is common for international instructors in Hong Kong public schools to collaborate with a local teacher in the classroom. NET (Native English Speakers Scheme), a government initiative for hiring foreign teachers, engages skilled and experienced foreign educators for two years. The goal is to help instructors in the area and inspire pupils to enjoy studying English.
A common practice in Hong Kong is to grant teaching positions to female instructors, which is legal and not deemed discriminatory.
Schooling in other countries
There are a large number of expats living in Hong Kong, many of whom send their children to foreign schools. If you have a background in math, science, or another field and are interested in working at an international school, you should know that teaching positions are not limited to English as a second language.
Schools follow distinct foreign systems, such as U.S., British, or Australian. Non-Hong Kong nationals will make up the majority of students, but not all. One of the most significant benefits of attending an international school is being exposed to a wide range of teaching styles.
Colleges and Universities
Teachers with a lot of experience and credentials may be able to get a position at a university or college. If you’re not equipped for an academic career, you’ll have a difficult time getting one of these positions.
A master’s degree and some work experience are the minimum qualifications, although a Ph.D. is more typically required. Only academically-minded professors should apply for teaching positions at Hong Kong universities and colleges.
Working as an English Teacher in China’s Hong Kong
Dates for Hong Kong Job Applications
To get a job in Hong Kong, you’ll have a better chance of succeeding if you’ve already worked as a teacher in the actual world.
August marks the start of the school year in Hong Kong. In the months preceding up to this, especially in the spring, recruitment takes place. It is common for contracts to last for one or two years and include completion incentives to entice employees to remain with their companies.
Applying for Jobs in Hong Kong: A Quick Guide
If you wish to apply for the NET Scheme, you’ll need the assistance of a third party organization to locate teaching positions in Hong Kong.
Some teaching positions, such as those at foreign schools, may be applied for directly via the school; these positions are published on a variety of employment portals and publications throughout the world.
In Hong Kong, the average salary for teaching positions
The average monthly salary for teachers in Hong Kong is anything from $3,000 to $7,400. However, because to the high cost of living, a large portion of your earnings will be used to cover your rent.
Bonuses for contract completion and round-trip airfares (including for family members) are common in many positions, as well as medical coverage and a housing allowance or even the actual housing itself. Look into these advantages before applying for a position, since a high income may not be worth it when you’re responsible for all of your own living expenses.