Travel In and Around China
Types of Teaching Jobs
Teaching Culture
Salary and Benefits
Work Hours and Holidays
Professional Development
Types of Teaching Jobs
China offers a variety of teaching opportunities across different types of institutions. Below are the most common environments where foreign teachers work:
Public Schools
Overview
These are government-funded schools ranging from primary to high school levels. Public schools are more structured and follow the national curriculum.
Workload
Generally, teachers at public schools work 20–25 hours per week, with weekends off and long holiday periods, especially during the summer and Chinese New Year.
Class Size
Classes can be quite large, often ranging from 30 to 50 students.
Environment
Teaching here is more traditional, and you may serve as a supporting teacher focusing on English conversation or specific language skills.
Private Language Schools
Overview
These are privately run schools focused on English language learning. Classes are usually held after school hours and on weekends, targeting both children and adults.
Workload
Expect to work evenings and weekends, typically with a teaching load of 20–30 hours per week, along with additional office hours.
Class Size
Class sizes tend to be smaller, ranging from 5 to 15 students, allowing for more individualized instruction.
Environment
These schools are often result-oriented, and teaching methods can be flexible and engaging, with a focus on conversation and practical language skills.
International Schools
Overview
International schools follow foreign curricula (such as the British, American, or IB systems) and cater primarily to expatriate children or affluent local families.
Workload
Teachers at international schools typically work full-time, with standard school hours similar to those in Western countries.
Class Size
Class sizes are smaller, usually between 15 and 25 students.
Environment
The teaching environment is highly professional, with a strong focus on academic achievement. You may also be expected to participate in extracurricular activities or school events.
Universities
Overview
University teaching jobs offer a more relaxed environment compared to other institutions, focusing on teaching English or specific subjects to university students.
Workload
The teaching load is generally lighter, around 12–16 hours per week, with plenty of free time for travel or additional work.
Class Size
Classes can range from 20 to over 50 students.
Environment
You’ll likely have more freedom in lesson planning, but you’ll be expected to help students with both formal academic English and conversational skills.
Teaching Culture
Chinese classrooms operate differently than what you may be used to. Understanding these differences will help you adapt to the work environment and be an effective teacher.
Respect for Teachers
In Chinese culture, teachers are highly respected, and students typically address you formally (e.g., “Teacher [Surname]”). However, with respect comes the expectation to maintain authority and control in the classroom.
Student Behavior
Chinese students are generally disciplined and hardworking, though they may be less outspoken compared to Western students. In some cases, getting students to participate in class discussions or express their thoughts openly can be a challenge, especially in larger public school classes.
Lesson Planning
Depending on the institution, you may be required to follow a specific curriculum or be given flexibility to design your lessons. In private language schools, for example, the focus is often on conversation and engagement, while public schools may have stricter guidelines to follow.
Parental Involvement
In some schools, especially private and international ones, parents play a significant role in their children’s education. You may be expected to meet with parents to discuss student progress or provide updates regularly.
Salary and Benefits
Salaries for foreign teachers in China vary widely depending on the type of institution, location, and your qualifications. Here’s an overview of typical salary ranges and benefits:
Salary
Public Schools
Teachers can expect to earn between 10,000–18,000 RMB per month, depending on the city and the teacher’s experience.
Private Language Schools
Salaries here are typically higher, ranging from 15,000–30,000 RMB per month, often with the expectation of evening and weekend work.
International Schools
These institutions offer the highest salaries, usually between 20,000–40,000 RMB per month, plus substantial benefits.
Universities
University teaching jobs are generally lower paid, with salaries around 8,000–15,000 RMB per month. However, they often come with fewer working hours.
Housing
Many employers provide either free housing or a monthly housing allowance. In some cases, the accommodation is shared with other teachers, while others may offer private apartments. If housing is not provided, the employer may help you find suitable accommodations.
Bonuses
It’s common to receive a completion bonus at the end of your contract. Some schools also offer a performance bonus or annual bonuses depending on student success and satisfaction.
Airfare Reimbursement
Many contracts include reimbursement for a round-trip flight to and from China, either upfront or upon completion of your contract.
Health Insurance
Most employers offer health insurance as part of your benefits package. However, make sure to confirm the specifics, as some policies may only cover basic care or specific hospitals.
Work Hours and Holidays
Work Hours
Full-time teaching jobs typically require 20–30 teaching hours per week, though this can vary by institution. Some jobs will also require additional office hours for lesson planning or administrative duties.
Holidays
You’ll have time off during Chinese national holidays, such as:
• Spring Festival (Chinese New Year): Usually a week/month-long holiday depending onion type of school, in late January or early February.
• National Day: A week-long break in early October.
Additionally, most schools provide around 2–4 weeks of paid leave, though this may vary. International schools and universities often have more generous vacation policies, including long summer breaks.
Professional Development
Teaching in China is not only a great way to gain international experience but also an opportunity for professional growth. Here’s how you can further your career:
TEFL Certifications and Further Education
Many teachers pursue additional qualifications, such as CELTA, DELTA, or a Master’s degree in education, while teaching in China. Some schools may even offer financial support for teachers looking to advance their credentials.
Advancement Opportunities
As you gain experience, you may be able to transition into higher-paying positions, such as becoming a lead teacher, academic coordinator, or director of studies. International schools, in particular, often offer career progression opportunities within their global networks.
Networking
Joining professional teaching organizations, attending conferences, and connecting with fellow expats can open doors to future teaching or administrative positions in China or elsewhere in the world.