Job Discussion Forums

[lwintersgill]

Hello. I'm hoping that someone out there can give me some advice.

I'm a final year Asia Pacific Studies student and I'm hoping to start a teaching career in Shenzhen after I graduate. My course deadlines are in April and ideally I'd like to be in China by August/September, however I hope to enroll on and complete a CELTA qualification first as I currently have no teaching experience.

I guess my question is quite broad. I've been scrolling through the threads here and I've seen several negative reviews about schools in China. I'm hoping that someone can share some slightly more positive reviews/experiences/recommendations with me.

Like I said I have no experience so I don't expect to just waltz into a top teaching job with an amazing salary and tonnes of benefits. Also I'm not just looking for a gap year experience.

Can anyone offer me any advice or recommendations for schools in Shenzhen?

Thanks

[Javelin of Radiance]

[it'snotmyfault]

I think Guangdong province is one of those that is quite strict about the visa requirements. They want the degree plus two years work experience. Just send your CV off to some employers and see what kind of feedback you get. I don't know much about that area so I can't recommend any schools for you.

I'm sure you'd find "a job", but finding a decent legitimate job when you don't meet the visa requirements could be a challenge.

[doogsville]

I would also look at some of the expat Shenzhen sites, Google search 'Delta Bridges' for instance, and I'm sure there are others. They will have job adverts, and also give you a place to post and ask local FT's for more information.

[lwintersgill]

Thank you guys for the advice. It is very much appreciated

[HungGarTiger]

It really all depends on your outlook/exceptations on jobs, I've worked in several cities in China and Sz is by far the worst for ESL jobs. They pay well, true, but there is A LOT of competition for work here and so the companies demand a lot from you - it's common to be working 40 hours a week, 25 teaching and 15 office. So for the extra 5-7,000 thats a lot more work for less money, when you take into consideration living costs.

You also meet more rip-off merchants here, the biggest ones will be the companies that say having less than two year experience is ok.

IMO, go for a smaller city outside of Guangdong and earn your two years there. The visas will be easier to get, a big thing in China right now, also the 2 years experience with business enviroment and language will pay off if you start in a small town and work up.

[mandu]

I have been in living in shenzhen for 11 years,checkout shenzhenparty.com for work.