Job Discussion Forums

mankindmatt5 · Joined: 18 May 2010 Posts: 20

Hello

I've just been offered a position at English First in Guangzhou. Naturally I want to know a little more about the place before I commit to my future there. The contract seems pretty decent and that I will be well looked after. However things about the working hours are a little vague and confusing, and the prospect of working 6 day weeks is alluded to.

Wondered if anyone here had any helpful insights they care to share in regards to this company?

Also whether anyone can venture whether it is better to work at a public or private school? The benefits of private seems to be better pay, although public schools have holidays and no evening or weekend hours (typically).

mnguy29 · Joined: 23 Jan 2008 Posts: 155 Location: USA

Yes, it all depends on if you want to work all the time, or actually enjoy your time in China. At one time I looked at EF too, but there were just too many negatives such as 6 day work week, 25 plus classes a week, evenings and weekends, no holidays. You will make a better salary but, is it worth it?? I would suggest public schools or even international schools where the salary will be more like 5000-7000 and you will work M-F daytime and have alot more free time. All the private training schools have one motivation-MONEY. Its a business!

80daze · Joined: 15 Oct 2008 Posts: 118 Location: China

I have a friend who currently works in one of the EF schools in GZ. I think there are 4 or 5 of them in the city at the moment.

He teaches 20 hours a week mostly on the weekends and has 3/4 days to do what he wants with 1 day set for lesson planning - not a bad gig at all if you ask me.

The good thing about EF in GZ is that it is not a franchise but the real EF company that you would be working for.