Job Discussion Forums

[Magic]

Any comments on teaching experiences at Beijing Huijia Private School?

I am considering an ESL position at the school, which appears great
judging by the website. Is there convenient public transportation
from the campus in Changping to other districts of Beijing? Do
teachers have time outside of class to study Chinese?

Thank you in advance for any advice.

[smalldog]

Hi Magic,

I taught there for two years from 1999-2001. It's a pretty well run school with good facilities, and foreign teachers are wanted for their abilities rather than simply for being foreign. Many of the students are quite spoilt, but there are others that make it worthwhile. I'd probably still be there if it weren't so out of the way. 15 mins cycle or bus to Changping, where there are all the shops and restaurants you need, as well as several universities campuses where you could find Chinese tutors. But at least an hour to downtown Beijing, and that was before there were so many private cars. I still miss the clean air and being able to pop out for a quiet cycle through farmland. Timetabling was not very flexible--they don't think that maybe you'd want a free day a week--but I had enough time to learn plenty of Chinese.

I know a current teacher there; PM me if you want her email address.