Job Discussion Forums

[lennon146]

Hi,

I'm interested in teaching in China (have a TEFL and experience) so I applied to New Times International in Hebei (aka 'TeachinChina.cn). They've basically told me to come over and they will find me a position... Elsewhere on this board I've heard a couple of positive things about this agency, but was wondering if anyone else could tell me anything. It's daunting when I'm coming such a long way!

Also, I've been told to come over on a tourist visa, and they'll fix me up with a work visa when I arrive. But if I intend to stay for six months how can I enter China on a tourist visa? (I'd imagine either the embassy or airport would want to know when I'm leaving, and I'm hoping to book a return flight upfront for 6 mths ahead)

Thanks for any help.

Paul

[badtyndale]

[ChadinChina]

Basically the way that teachinchina.cn or Hebei New Times works is that once you arrive they will contact schools. The schools will usually want to do a phone interview, and if that goes well they tend to set up face to face sessions. If the face to face goes well, you'll typically be asked to teach a demonstration class at the school (Typically for the admin and/or student body leaders) and if all goes well then you have a job.

However on their end of the stick Hebei New Times doesn't like to promise anything specific until they get to see you face to face because different schools want different things. Most want someone with cartoon-like energy who can speak English slowly but still have the charisma to keep the students entertained. Others want something closer to a real teacher with less cartoon/clown antics. It really depends on the school. I'm sure New Times could give you a few examples but in all honesty you're better off going, letting them change your visa, and then placing you in a place they feel is best suited towards you.

I've dealt with them on and off for quite a long while and I'll say that if you have any problems you can always email me at : [email protected]

It's a big step to come to China, but I've found that New Times provides a lot of comfort factor such as sure room and board in a host family if you like it, or they can offer you room in the hotel (not exactly a 4 star joint but a bed is a bed). I live about 1 block from the company's offices so if you need help with anything once you arrive feel free to drop me an email. I can show you all the local spots if you're staying in this city, or give you additional advice and contacts with friends of mine if you're traveling to another city/part of China.

Best wishes,

Chad

[Weichow]

Hi Paul,
I'm just coming to the end of a three month contract with New Times, Hebei in China and can assure you they're a great company to get involved with.
I wouldn't worry about the visas, I've met loads of people here who've come on a tourist visa and had it changed into a work visa no problem, it seems pretty standard. I know it's daunting but don't worry, the company don't exactly hold your hand through everything but they're there when you need them and have your best interests at heart. There a great bunch and I'm sure you'll have the time of your like in china, just like I have.
Please feel free to e-mail me if you have any specific questions.
[email protected]

xxx

[JZer]

Weichow, what about entering China on a 30 day tourist visa even though your plane ticket says you are living 3 or 6 months latter? Will that be a problem with imigration?

[Voldermort]

I first entered China with a 30 day tourist visa and a 1 way ticket. The only problems I encountered were from the airline.

You will have no problems having your visa extended while within China, and with a company like Hebei New Times, you will not have a problem changing it to a work visa.