China - Teaching English
Posted by Margaret Jenkins - 14:28 on 31 August 2009
TEFL
f you are interested in EFL teaching in China, you will not have to look hard for work. All year round there are many jobs going with few teachers to take them. If you are a TEFL qualified teacher you will have numerous job opportunities in almost every part of China, whether it is working for the state or private sectors.
Employment and where
Research the area where you are planning on going as salaries can vary greatly between regions. This is also apparent for the costs of living.
Over the past 5 years, Chinas economy has been growing and developing rapidly. Now teachers can expect similar standards of living to other Asian countries like Japan or Taiwan. Being a TEFL teacher, living and working in China can be an extremely exciting and rewarding experience.
It is worthwhile arranging a job before leaving to China, doing this can often mean that your employer will reimburse you airfares. If you have a University Degree, no matter what it is, you have a better chance of gaining employment. Also this greatly helps in getting you a working visa.
A typical type of contract for a TEFL qualified teacher would be as follows: A one year contract working around 20.5 hours a week with classes ranging from young learners to teenagers, to adults. If working over 20.5 hours a week, it will be paid as overtime.
You will earn around 8800RMB ($1.164)US and overtime bonuses on top of that. Other benefits could include – health insurance, travel allowance while teaching, a bonus if you complete your contract, help with accommodation and 22 days paid holiday.
Cost of living
Although the cost of living can vary in different parts of China, it is still relatively cheap anywhere if you are coming from the EU. Travelling and eating out is also cheap. After arriving you can begin networking. This is a good way to arrange private lessons which will really help to boost your income.
China offers a so much for someone travelling from the EU: stunning and diverse scenery, an amazing culture, interesting cuisine and great employment opportunities. Overall a great place for anyone who is up for an adventure.
Add your comment below
“This is my first online course - I enjoyed it. The online system obviously allowed me to work at my own pace and time. The course was comprehensive and followed on well from the weekend course. The unit notes and the instructions were clear. A very good introduction to an online course and TEFL teaching. Thanks.” Apkar Salatian