Job Discussion Forums

[Katja84]

Hello,

I have gotten a job offer that I am really keen on taking - after having originally applied for a one-year position the university has agreed on a six-month contract (since it turns out that I need to be back in the UK in spring). However, at the same time as agreeing to this they asked me to arrive in China 'before August'. I can hand in my MA dissertation in the end of August at the latest (officially, I need to wait until the 31st, but I'm sure I can push it back a few days) and had believed the term would start September 1st. Is this the case? How far in advance are teachers normally asked to come to China? Is there any particular reason why teachers would need to be there more than a few days prior to the start of teaching (e.g. preparation meetings?)

Also, the school asked for a photocopy of my insurance - is this normal procedure?

Any information would be much appreciated!
Katja

[sui jin]

What kind of university is it? Maybe they meant before the end of August... most colleges will start around 1st September. Nobody is around in August.

Last year here we were given our textbooks and teaching assignments about three days in advance of the start of term. Just in terms of settling in, I would aim to arrive in the middle of the week before you start teaching. Any earlier and you will left kicking your heels on any empty campus.

[Katja84]

Excellent, that's what I wanted to hear, I've told them I could come that week at the earliest so hopefully that will be okay

[bradley]

Most universities will begin on September 1st.

I'm usually asked to report about a week early around the 26th of August or so.

[shenyanggerry]

I used to try to arrive one week before classes started. This earlier arrival was mainly because I have 12 hours of jet-lag to contend with. I was never required to arrive that early.

[nickpellatt]

Will the new term not be starting earlier this year? My old students have emailed me to tell me they are breaking up for the summer earlier. I guessed it was the change in the lunar calender.....

Just a thought.

OP - It could be a number of reasons. They are experienced with FTs and want to make sure jet lag isnt an issue...and also that you actually turn up, rather than leave them hanging on the day term starts.

They may even be one of the wonderful places that want to help you settle in before term starts

[bradley]

I would ask the school for the academic calendar and see when the first day of class is....I have know idea about next semester at this university. Schools tend not to plan too far in advance it seems