China
CHINA @ A GLANCE Total Area- 9,388,21 square kilometers Total Population- 1.4 billion Capital City- Beijing Languages- Standard Mandarin, Yue, Wu Religions- Buddhism, Taoism Top teaching locations- Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Nanjing Currency- RenminbiRiveting facts about China:
- The huge country has five time zones but runs by Beijing time; thus, some parts have sunrise by 10am whereas, others have sunset by afternoon.
- Red is the color of happiness here, hence, is extensively used in festivities, birthdays & weddings.
- Traditionally considered as good omen, Bat is hugely used on porcelain, textiles 7 crafts.
- Chinese lunar calendar is the oldest, originated in 2600 B.C., having 12 zodiacs and takes 60 years to complete.
- Largest consumer of red wine in the world is China.
- Maximum number of tallest buildings in the world are here.
China has come up as the biggest lure for the TEFL certified job seekers. The reasons are umpteen but the obvious being; it’s the most populated country with the fastest growing economy year over year. The remuneration and perks offered here are unmatched all over the world, hence, it’s no puzzle to decode why it’s number one on everyone’s priority list. Notwithstanding the money part there are supplementary characteristics that incites people to live and work here. A heady mixture of ancient culture combined with rich history, bountiful natural features- from highlands to deserts to numerous lakes, ultra-modern, swanky urbanization and of course the finger licking cuisine!
Options for teaching in China
Wanting to experience the thriving economy first hand, many licensed ESL educators are making a beeline for China. With almost 300 million students eager to become competent in English, there is a massive scarceness of relevant teachers and the demand keeps multiplying with time.
Chinese lay great emphasis on education as they perceive it to be the pillar of economic, cultural and individual prosperity. Their realization of the unmatched potential of English language combined with their high paying capacity, has resulted in hiring some of the best talents of the industry from all parts of the world.
The abundance of International schools and Language Institutes has made China the number one among ESL teachers looking to expand their horizon.
Opportunities in Private language schools in China
The biggest provider of ESL jobs turns out to be the Private language Schools and as the people have shown great faith in their ability to impart high standard training, the number of students enrolling with them has gone up remarkably. As younger and younger learners join these courses, the numbers have risen tremendously; from 32 million in 2014 to 44 million in 2018 and estimated to cross 50 million by 2020. Combined with this, is the adults making a beeline for Business English Classes to expand and modernize their career prospects. All these have resulted in the exponential growth in the demand for certified ESL educators.
These Schools are mostly in developed cities where the urban population is aware of the pros of learning an international language like English. The working conditions are fairly good with all modern amenities and small classes. The remuneration is one of the best that the industry has to offer.
Opportunities in International Schools in China
In recent years, the economic prosperity of the country has led to number of International Schools multiplying greatly. This is a manifestation of the people’s aspiration to move ahead and be at par with the best internationally. The economic empowerment of the middle class has resulted in them focusing on western pattern of education for their children, with the aim of obtaining entrance in renowned universities. At the moment, nearly 1.8 million Chinese students are enrolled in such Schools and if the estimated statistics are to be believed, this shall double in 5 years’ time! Hence, it is anyone’s guess as to how much the demand for certified ESL teachers would grow! These Schools follow one of the international curricula; possess best infrastructure and are well-equipped with latest technology.
Undoubtedly, the Language Institutes and the International Schools are the biggest job providers for ESL educators, but there are other openings like online teaching, which can be taken up from your home country!
Henry Harvin at the moment is flooded with job options in China for varied locations. Take the opportunity and apply today!
Please note that these are average standards and individual offers shall vary.
| TEACHING BENEFITS | DETAILS OF BENEFITS |
|---|---|
| Monthly Salary | Salaries vary depending on the qualifications and experience; and also vary based on locations. |
| Accommodation | Most of the times furnished accommodation or housing allowance is covered. |
| Airfare | Return airfare is often included. |
| Working Hours | Varies generally between 36-40 hours a week; (5 day working in a week) |
| Vacation | All national holidays + 10-12 days’ vacation. |
| Health Insurance | Covered. |
| Additional Benefits | Successful completion bonus, free orientation and training sessions |
Now, if you preferred destination is China, you will certainly want to be familiar with the Visa requirements.
- You shall need a Z Visa
- Sponsorship from employer is mandatory
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree
- Have at least two years relevant experience
To fulfill the criteria of a ‘foreign expert’ you –
Should have a valid passport of one of the native English-speaking countries
Cost of living in China
The cost of living is comparatively less than most of the western countries, thus giving the added advantage of saving. Everything from eating out to transport to recreation is reasonably charged, giving you the privilege to explore the historically and culturally rich places in China.