Why teach in China? If you are looking for a teaching job abroad, you might be considering teaching in China. There are many reasons why people choose to teach in China. Some teachers say that the salary is better than at home while others enjoy the opportunity to live and work somewhere new. Whatever your reason, there are many things to consider before deciding to teach abroad in this country.
This guide will explore the different teaching programs available in China, the requirements for each program, the pros and cons of teaching in China, and whether or not it is safe to teach in China during the COVID pandemic.
Why Teach in China
Teaching in China has become increasingly popular in recent years. The country has a large population of students, and many teaching opportunities are available. Some teachers say that the salary is better than at home while others enjoy the chance to live and work somewhere new.
Schools in China are looking for native English speakers to teach all ages, from kindergarten to adults. China takes education very seriously, and students respect their teachers, which is a definite plus.
If you want to experience a new culture or get away from the monotony of teaching in your home country, teaching abroad in China could be a great option.
What Programs Are Available
You can take advantage of many different programs when teaching English in China. For example, you could work for an international school or teach privately with one family at home to make money on the side. Another option is to sign up with a language school. These schools offer teacher training and provide you with a work visa.
There are also government-sponsored teaching programs, such as The China Education Association for International Exchange (CEAIE). You will be placed in a public school in China with this program. The requirements to participate in these programs vary, but most require you to be a native English speaker and have a bachelor’s degree.
How To Find Teaching Jobs in China
Once you are in China, there are many ways to find teaching jobs. You can check job boards online or go through an agency. Teaching positions are also advertised in newspapers and on websites like Craigslist.
Completing a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) course is another way to find jobs in China. These courses are offered by many universities and language schools.
Once you have completed one of these programs, your school will help you with the visa process to legally work in China.
Requirements for Teaching in China
There are several requirements to teach English in China. Most schools require you to be a native speaker and hold an ESL (English as a Second Language) certificate like the TEFL or TESOL program. You also need a bachelor’s degree, but many teaching programs ask for applicants with postgraduate experience.
You will usually need to be between the ages of 25 and 45. In addition, some schools may require you to have a criminal record check before hiring you.
You will also need a visa to work in China. A Z visa is required for teaching jobs, and it can take several months to process. You will need a degree and two years of professional experience before you apply with the Chinese government for this type of visa.
The CEAIE program provides visas through their agency so that teachers do not have to deal with the paperwork or other issues. The process of obtaining a work visa can be time-consuming, but your school will help you through the entire process.
It is essential to know that the rules and regulations for teaching in China can change without warning. Therefore, make sure you are up-to-date on the latest information by contacting your school or checking the Chinese embassy website.
Pros & Cons of Teaching in China
The pros of teaching in China are:
- Excellent salary ($2,427-$3,330 monthly, depending on the city)
- Respect from students
- An opportunity to learn about a new culture
- Chance to travel around the country
Some cons of teaching in China include:
- Long work hours
- Lack of job security
- Difficulty finding housing
Although many teachers enjoy their time in China, some can be frustrated by the challenges they face there. Many schools offer bonuses and incentives to keep employees happy with working for them, but you must know your rights before accepting a position as an English teacher in China.
Teaching jobs in China also come with a lot of responsibility. You are not only teaching the language, but you are also introducing the culture to your students. Therefore, it is important to be respectful and humble when teaching in China.
Is It Safe to Teach in China During the COVID-19 Pandemic?
Because the first cases of COVID-19 were located in China, teachers may have some concerns about teaching in the country during the pandemic. However, the Chinese government is doing everything possible to contain and prevent the spread of the virus.
While the borders remain open in China, there are currently travel restrictions for those looking to enter the country. In addition, new and returning teachers will be required to quarantine for 14 days before starting work.
The Chinese government is also asking teachers to help with the response to COVID-19 by promoting hygiene and safe practices among their students.
At this time, it is still safe to teach in China during the pandemic. However, the situation can change quickly, so it is vital to stay updated on the latest information by contacting your school. The COVID-19 pandemic has created some uncertainty for those considering teaching in China. However, most schools are still open and running as expected.
There have been some cases of the virus in schools, but as long as you take precautions and follow the advice of your school and health officials, it is safe to teach in China.
Teaching in China can be a rewarding experience, but not for everyone. If you are interested in teaching English as a second language or working with children and young adults, there may be many opportunities waiting for you! It’s important to do your research before signing up for any program so that you know what to expect. Teaching in China can be a unique and life-changing experience with the proper preparation!
