Job Discussion Forums

Chris300 · Joined: 09 Sep 2015 Posts: 7

Wonder if someone could share his experience of teaching in China and living there with children age 11-12.
What school would they attend, is it regular Chinese school?
Would I receive any support from the local government or I am totally on my own?
How difficult or how easy is it to learn Chinese for a child and attend a regular school?
Is it at all viable?
Appreciate your comments

backtochina2017 · Joined: 28 Nov 2016 Posts: 123

Unless your child speaks Chinese, they would probably have to go to an international school. Considering the salaries are better for English teachers, the tuition must be higher also. Do you have the money for this? I highly doubt the Chinese government is begging for foreigners to come to their international schools, but you could try. Hey, if it doesn't work out, go to Plan B (something other than China). That might be even more difficult though.

If anyone is looking to "test" the system for something other than a Z visa, you might want to try waiting for summer and do a summer position. This way, if it doesn't work out you aren't locked into a 1 year deal. Personally, I am going the Z visa 1 year route because I have gone through the hassle of having to go to a second school at the end of previous years and it's not easy to keep getting something at the last minute unless you have money in the bank to hold you. You will no longer have a place to stay, you will not be earning any money, and you will be spending travel expenses to the new school location. Figure 2-3000 USD to be on the safe side. Do you have that kind of money to wave around?

I have already spent $500 just to get half of my Z visa stuff. Any money coming in as "additional income" won't be seen until the second or third month.

Yea, the days of the transient ESL teacher are over.

Chris300 · Joined: 09 Sep 2015 Posts: 7

Thanks a lot backtochina2017. You are an incredible source of information.
I will see what I can do. China was since long time my top destination. I am experienced traveler, would say an adventurer so difficult situations are not new to me. I may give it a shot. But yeah, I will play it on the safe side.