Job Discussion Forums

[The_Big_White_Elephant]

I'm a long way off from ever teaching at an international school, but I'm simply curious about this.

What are the most common subjects to teach at international schools (in China)? What are the most common age groups?

If somebody wanted to become an international school teacher in China, what would be the most practical subject/ age group to get certified in?

Also, is teaching ESL at international schools a thing? If so, how common is it?

Thanks everyone!

[Trebek]

I taught at a pretty decent international school in Shanghai last year. Our school was a High school, so ages 14-18. This was an all Chinese international school that used the IGCSE curriculum. (other schools like this use IB or AP) They typically hire, Math, Physics, Chemistry, Economics, ESL, History, and English teachers, all must have teaching certifications in their subject areas.

School like this are focused on the students learning to pass the tests that will allow them to go to Universities in the UK, US, Canada, and other English speaking countries.

The pay was excellent, the teaching requirements were about the same as in my home country. PM me for more details if you need them.

[Hatcher]

International schools are wide and varied. Depends on you.

I have a good deal but hate my boss and location. The co workers are ok.

[Non Sequitur]

It's an important distinction between schools that have only Chinese students and those where the school caters for the children of expats, as well as those of wealthy locals.
Expat parents expect their kids not to be disadvantaged by their stint in China, so some sort of comparability with the US or Europe can be expected.
Often this group of internationals follow the international baccalaureate system.
Having registration and experience in an approved source country would be a minimum I'm picking.

[nomad-ish]