For those who are looking to travel in Asia affordably, save some money, gain intercultural experience, learn Chinese, or test the waters of teaching as a career, there is a school that will best fit their qualifications and expectations. The following schools and businesses all commonly hire foreign English or ESL teachers, but they have very different working conditions. The discerning teacher must carefully consider his/her options before deciding on the right school.
Teaching at an International School
For those with an education degree, teaching at an international school can be a greatly rewarding experience, without many of the headaches associated with working with a local Chinese school. These accredited schools are professionally run, and often pay a salary comparable to what educators would earn at home. Teachers are not limited to teaching English as a Foreign Language, and can often teach the subject in which they are qualified. These schools can also give teachers ongoing support as they adjust to a foreign culture, and can provide opportunities for professional development and advancement.
Private Language School Jobs
Private language school teaching jobs can vary from the illegal and unscrupulous to the professional and well paying. Teachers should do their research before applying, and if possible, talk to current or former teachers. Some private language schools do not have the legal wherewithal to hire foreign employees, which can lead to police raids, deportation, and loss of pay.
However, there are several reputable companies. One such company is WEB International English based in Shanghai. Companies like WEB pay well, but teachers are often expected to work long hours, especially evenings. Private language schools also offer opportunities to teach Business English and exam preparation courses. A TESOL or TEFL certificate will be an advantage at these schools.
Teaching English at Public Schools
Teaching at a public elementary or middle/high school can be a way of seeing the “real” China, as there are schools in the countryside, in small towns, and in the city. Pay rates at these schools can vary, but are not nearly as high as jobs at international schools or private language schools. Teachers at public local schools will need to be culturally open-minded, as they will be dealing with a local Chinese administration, but that is part and parcel with experiencing the local culture and can be both interesting and rewarding.
Teaching at a College or University
Teachers often have widely differing accounts of teaching at a college or university. The most reliably positive experiences are at highly ranked public universities, where students are generally high achievers and where administrators have a long history of hiring foreign teachers. Teachers at universities often have fewer hours (12-20), which translates to lower pay than international or private schools. Salaries also vary depending on where the university is located.
Foreign teachers at universities sometimes have the opportunity to teach literature, business, and elective classes as well as oral English classes. Some universities require a Master’s degree; others require a Bachelor’s degree in any field as a minimum.
Do the Research and Teach Legally
Before signing a contract, teachers need to ensure that the school they are considering is reputable. The company must provide the correct documentation to get a work or business visa, as well as a written contract. Be aware that it is illegal to teach (even to tutor privately) on a tourist visa, and that overstaying a visa can result in a 500 RMB fine per day.
A good place for teachers to begin their job search is at Dave’s ESL Café. Those considering teaching in China should ask lots of questions, as finding a supportive employer and good working conditions can mean the difference between debilitating culture shock, and a rewarding, personally enriching experience.
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