China
Qualifications
For many years, people have been getting jobs in China without any qualifications, whatsoever. The news that it is “pretty easy” to get a job in China, provided that one has “white skin, a pulse and English as a mother language” has led to a proliferation of people wanting to go there. Recently, I heard that the Chinese central government has introduced a
regulation requiring that all (foreign teachers) FTs hold a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree; but should that regulation be rigorously enforced, it would probably result in an acute shortage of FTs, especially in the far north and west of the country. Some unscrupulous recruiters and employers “have ways” of getting over the ‘degree obstacle”! Also, it would appear that many of the FTs, here, who purport to be “graduates” either have credentials from dodgy institutions ( eg “life experience” degrees), or have forged documents. Unfortunately, the Chinese authorities often don’t appear to check on the validity of credentials.
So, one could say that, legally speaking, the possession of a Bachelor’s degree is the minimum qualification for teaching in China. For the college and university sectors, it would appear that a Master’s degree is the minimum requirement – but many FTs with only a BA are working in universities and colleges. Occasionally, universities give preference for holders of TESOL certificates. But I doubt very much whether they know much about the differences between the various certificates.
Types of English Teaching Jobs Available
Most of the jobs in China are in the university/college sectors and the language schools. However, there are also jobs in both the private and state-run school systems. Many of the private language schools are small-time affairs, although there are some large franchised operations too.
Probably the most lucrative jobs would be in the (genuine) International School sector. Many ordinary private primary/middle schools might call themselves, “international schools”, but the genuine ones are very upmarket, catering to the offspring of the corporate expats and the local bourgeoisie. As such genuine International schools usually follow the syllabus of some Western country, they expect that their teachers be properly qualified, for example, teacher qualifications from your home country (B.Ed or the UK’s PGCE).
Like Korea, beware of recruiters and try, if possible, to deal directly with the school you will be working for. The recruiter may only tell you what you want to hear and the reality may be quite different.
Salaries
Salaries are lower in China than most other countries, but so it the cost of living and the teaching load is also much less too. With the university sectors, starting salaries usually depend upon one’s qualifications. Salaries will also vary between provinces and cities. Once you have your foot in the door and have gained some experience, you should be able to bargain for a higher salary when contract renewal time comes around.
Shanghai is probably the most expensive city on the Mainland, but FTs salaries do not often reflect that. Salaries are subject to the operation of the Law of Supply and Demand. It would appear that nearly every new teacher wants to work in Shanghai, thus too many people chasing too few jobs, resulting in lower wages.
Working Conditions
Apart from a salary, FTs are also offered housing and airfare reimbursement. Sometimes you may be required to share an apartment, but the universities provide you with your own place. Places can be quite sparse do be prepared for simple living. Scools often provide meals for teachers during the daytime, so this can also cut down in costs. Eating out is very cheap anyways, at least if you avoid the western restaurants.
Beware of “over-generous” salaries! Some places might offer 6,000 RMB per month – but there might only be 10 salary payments for the year, meaning that there will be no salary for the 2 month summer break. FTs are usually entitled to a 2000 RMB “travel allowance”, usually paid at the end of a 12 month contract. Also, there is an additional 30 RMB per month, as a “phone” or “taxi” allowance. When looking at the contract, be aware of the number of teaching hours/week, how many salary payments there will be (10 or 12), airfare reimbursement (full return ticket), free utilities, computer access, etc.
Many FTs often moonlight in language schools, one should get about 100 RMB per hour, possibly more in Shanghai. You will need to take into account the travel time and costs involved.
General Information
China has the largest EFL market in the world. It is not unheard of to see a single recruiter advertise for 200-300 jobs. In the universities, one normally works 14-18 “teaching hours/week. A teaching hour is about 45 “normal minutes. A lesson is usually two teaching hours, with a short break in between.
Class sizes can vary; there might be 50 or 60 students or more in a class. In Chinese universities, classrooms are usually located in buildings varying between 6 and 10 stories, with no elevators. Thus, one needs to be fit to teach.
Links
http://www.china-teachers.com/
http://www.tealic.com/visa.htm
http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/english/home/index.html Chinese news
http://www.travelchinaguide.com/ Travel information
