Job Discussion Forums

[red]

I have posted this query on the China board, but I thought it wise to post here also...........

I am hoping to take up a teaching position in China (Guangzhou) in September of this year and I have a few queries regarding my (as yet unsigned) contract. I have read the 'contract tips' post on this forum, but I have some specific questions also and am seeking advice from all you wise folk out there.....

Firstly, the contract (written in English, not Chinese) is between myself and the school recruiters, NOT between myself and the school. Although I would normally avoid recruiters like the plague (largely on the strength of advice from this board!) I feel reasonably happy in this instance as I have been lucky enough to interview in person with the recruiters, an English couple based in the UK. As a result of this interview, I feel satisfied that they are a professional and legitimate outfit recruiting on behalf of a genuinely good school. HOWEVER, are there any blindingly obvious problems with a contract of this type which I am simply not aware of?

Secondly, the contract states how much I will be paid (per month) but not WHEN. I suspect I need to request inclusion of pay dates - would you agree? Furthermore, it does not specify if the figure given is Net or Gross - again, do I need to request that this be clarified? My knowledge of taxation in China is rather sketchy, I'm afraid!

Thirdly, the contract states that I will be entitled to "the same paid holiday as other teachers in the school", however no precise figures are given. I suspect that it would be wise to request inclusion of more specific holiday allowance - would you agree?

Fourthly, the contract states that I will be provided with on-campus accommodation but it does not list any specifics , i.e. western bathroom (or not), self-catering facilities (or not), TV (or not) etc. Do I need to request that these be added in? I have seen photographs (which seem fine) however I am acutely aware that you can't always trust this kind of evidence!

Any advice/recommendations are most welcome. Thanks in advance

[naturegirl321]

Write in the details and send it back to the school for approval.

[Roger]

A contract between you and an K hirer has absolutely no legal basis in China!
Have you applied for your work visa at the embassy yet? You will see whether they accept this kind of agreement! I rather doubt it!