Job Discussion Forums

jocelynp · Joined: 04 Nov 2014 Posts: 2

So I'm about to graduate college and I am thinking about teaching in China as soon as I finish, for hopefully about 10-12 months. I've looked around the board and read the embassy's guide but I still have a few questions I can't find the answers to.

First of all, is there anyway for me to start a position in May or June? & If so, how early can I start looking?

Are there different types of schools, e.g. private vs. public like in Korea? If I was looking to teach high school or younger, what do I need to look out for?

Some additional information about myself in case it's relevant: Money isn't a big deal because I have no loans to pay off and I'm very accustomed to living frugally (though I would like to make enough to have some when I return). I also speak fairly basic Chinese and have experience tutoring ESL students but no TEFL certification.

Any other advice you have to offer me would be appreciated.

snowboard · Joined: 13 Oct 2014 Posts: 24

wangdaning · Joined: 22 Jan 2008 Posts: 3154

The terms work like the North American system, fall-spring. Looking at that time is good, as after people go on vacation. However, expect a fall start, unless it is a language mill, in which case year round is ok.

wangdaning · Joined: 22 Jan 2008 Posts: 3154

You will only score a May/June start at a training or language school. This is the time places check for returning and look for new Teachers. I would think most of the good positions would start later (meaning fall or spring start), but I might be wrong, working at one place for six years.

jm21 · Joined: 26 Feb 2008 Posts: 406

It might be possible to find an immediate start in early May, but you're more likely looking at a september start.

For cram schools and kindys they hire year-round.

Non Sequitur · Joined: 23 May 2010 Posts: 4724 Location: China

Chinese New Year's Day in 2015 is 18 Feb and I expect the new (Spring) semester starts about 1 March.
You could get an ultra late start in a public school but if there is a black hole in the public recruitment calendar - you've chosen it!
A language school followed by a summer job would line you up for the new public school year starting 1 Sept 2015. But do come on a Z visa, otherwise you may have to return home to get this.
As you seem to be undecided about China v Korea and you give no information about public v private sectors, it's a bit hard to suggest further.
Do get even a basic ESL qual. It won't get you a job but it will give you confidence.
Best

SH_Panda · Joined: 31 May 2011 Posts: 455

likwid_777 · Joined: 04 Nov 2012 Posts: 411 Location: NA

What about the supposed 2 year experience (post degree) requirement? No one said anything about it, so it seems like it's not being applied in many places across China.

jm21 · Joined: 26 Feb 2008 Posts: 406

2 years of work experience works. I think they usually say post graduation because a lot of schoola don't really want to hire anyone in their early 20s. Too immature. Too high a chance they will be trying to get students in bed, etc.

jocelynp · Joined: 04 Nov 2014 Posts: 2

What if I worked at a cram school? Would they require two years experience then?

jm21 · Joined: 26 Feb 2008 Posts: 406

It's a government requirement. Now, the school might have a connection where they can get past that...they might lie on the information they send in...but it might limit you to the crappier/seedier schools.