If you’re an aspiring educator who is curious if teaching English in a foreign land may be a good fit for you, look no further than China. As English instruction gradually flourishes in this vast nation, there are many experienced foreign instructors–offering advanced insight into both their craft and the local culture–available to give the novice teacher a head start. China could prove the right platform to grow professionally while having the chance to immerse in a wholly different culture.
Explore Who Can Teach English In China
Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just getting started in the teaching world, in this guide we’ll cover what you need to know to teach English in China.
Institutions Who Need English Teachers
If you’re interested in teaching English in China, the first step is to research the local schools and institutions that offer teaching positions. In general, China’s institutions fall into two categories: public and private.
Public institutions are typically affiliated with the government and are typically larger in size. These institutions also often require a higher level of teaching qualifications and experience.
Private institutions, on the other hand, are usually owned and operated by private individuals or corporations outside of the government’s control. Many private institutions offer more flexible and multicultural environments, and may include international schools, language institutes and language companies.
Teaching Qualifications and Requirements
No matter what institution you choose to teach English in China, there are certain qualifications and requirements you’ll need to meet before you can land a teaching position.
Most institutions will require at least a Bachelor’s degree in any field, or Proof of English Proficiency (such as a TEFL or TESOL certification). Depending on the institution, you may also need to have at least two years or more of teaching experience.
In addition, most Chinese schools will require some form of background check in order to prove your good character and eligibility to teach in the country.
Contract Requirements
Before securing a teaching position, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the details of the contract. Most standard contracts will include job duties and responsibilities, salary and payment terms, holidays and benefits, job termination details and policies for sick leave and holiday leave.
Be sure to read the contract carefully and understand what’s required of you. While most contracts are standard and fair, certain schools may have specific requirements or clauses that could put you in a tough spot if you’re not aware of them in advance.
Paperwork Requirements
Many institutions necessitate further paperwork to be filled in and tendered ahead of being employed at the school; such paperwork is liable to deviate in accordance with the school, and could comprise a request, curriculum vitae, picture, testimonials, transcripts, and other such documents, in adjunct to the run-of-the-mill agreement.
Be sure to ask for a detailed list of paperwork needed in advance to ensure you have all the information you need for a successful application.
Teaching Techniques and Strategies
Gaining an appreciation of the various teaching strategies and approaches necessary to successfully interact with learners of differing aptitudes when instructing English in China is essential for delivering an optimal educational experience.
The Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) approach, of which general acceptance is high, concentrates on cultivating communicative skills by simulating aspects of the real world. Additionally, a strategy becoming increasingly prevalent is Task-Based Learning (TBL), a pedagogy which acknowledges learning as a result of dynamic activities and assignments.
Simultaneously, it is essential to take heed that Chinese culture substantially varies from the customary norms to which most foreign teachers are accustomed. Before setting foot in the classroom, expending effort in researching and gaining a nuanced understanding of the cultural conventions is instrumental in ensuring a positive teaching journey.
Cost of Living
When considering teaching English in China, it’s important to factor in the cost of living in the country. Living costs can vary greatly depending on location, so do thorough research to get a sense of what you’ll need for accommodation, food, transportation and other necessities.
Generally speaking, the cost of living can be considerably lower in many parts of China than in other countries. Most teachers find that their salary more than covers basic living expenses and even allows for occasional travel and leisure activities.
English Teacher Resources
To make teaching English in China a successful experience, it’s important to have access to quality teaching materials and resources. Fortunately, there are many online resources available for foreign teachers, including lesson plans and course materials, advice and support, cultural guides and more.
Perusal of these assets can bolster your methodology for tutelage, enlightening you on traditional Chinese norm, in addition to suggesting some novel approaches for rendering lessons memorable and mentally rigorous. Consequently, make a point of taking the time to study these resources; doing so may lead to you and your scholars actively enjoying your English classes.
Taking the Next Step
Immersing oneself in the vibrant educational landscape of China can offer a wealth of educational and workplace prospects, while simultaneously deepening one’s appreciation of the rich culture. A smart and comprehensive approach to planning and preparation is essential for securing the preparation and qualifications so imperative for laying the groundwork for a meaningful experience.
Are you ready to take the next step and explore the opportunities of teaching English in China? Whether you’re looking to teach Chinese children, teens or adults, the experience and insight you’ll gain will be invaluable. With diligent preparation, you’ll gain the ability to impact young lives and develop new skills while immersing yourself in a culture unlike any other.