Over the years China has been solidifying its position as one of the world’s most important economic and trade countries. This creates a need for English-language speakers in the country to converse with the international community and further expand businesses and reach. Thus it comes as no surprise that China has witnessed a boom in international schooling especially in metropolitan cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou to name a few.
Teaching in China has become very accessible for ex-pat teachers who for a rich lifestyle and lower tax living choose to teach overseas. Additionally, many international schools, primarily British schools have emerged in mainland China. Currently, more than 500 English-medium schools have emerged in the country which is an exponential increase when compared to two decades ago, when it was only 22.
Among these schools, there are many that offer American and British programs and examinations but some also offer international curriculums from a multitude of countries e.g. Japan, Korea, Switzerland, Germany, and France. Initially, these schools only catered to foreign passport holders but over the years Chinese locals in the middle class are now willing to send their children into a Western-style of education primarily that in English.
Development History of British Schools in China
It is important to take into account that there are different types of international schools in China. As mentioned earlier, the British private schools initially were only for the foreigners who possessed passports but slowly people have realized the importance of proficiency in the English language.
There has been a steady increase in the number of British schools in China with plans to open schools in the Guangdong province in southern China. Similarly, a new law emerged in regards to private schooling in China, no doubt to address the boom. It bans private schools from teaching Chinese national students with foreign textbooks and curriculums but doesn’t extend that policy for foreign passport holders.
Despite the evident restriction on international schooling, British schools are increasing in number. Although there have been no plans to inaugurate British schools in the bigger cities such as Shanghai, there is immense interest in opening independent British schools in cities such as Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Fujian, and others in southern China.
Notable international British education institutes such as Nord Angelina and Harrow International have established campuses in China already with plans to expand. Nord Angelina has campuses in three cities: Beijing, Guangzhou, and Nanjing. Moreover, Harrow International plans to open campuses in Haikou, Shenzhen, and Zhuhai with one already established in Beijing.
British Schools and Curriculum
British education or British curriculum is considered to be one of the highly sought for and respected all over the world. One of the biggest advantages of choosing a British curriculum is that students can seamlessly move from one part of the world to the other with their diplomas recognized and respected.
The British Curriculum or National Curriculum for England boasts an education stressing problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and flexibility. Students studying in the system need not worry about switching as there are a plethora of British schools all supporting the same curriculum which makes it easy to pick off where you left off. In addition to that, as the curriculum is recognized worldwide it provides a lot of flexibility in terms of ex-pat opportunities.
Most British schools are to offer the class IGCSE/A-Level curriculum which causes their students to be unable to give Chinese standardized tests and makes them unable to sit in Chinese universities. However, the schools are to incorporate some elements of the Chinese curriculum on their own such as history, geography, and politics.
Benefits of teaching in China
Here are a few of the many reasons to consider teaching in China:
- Variety of Opportunities
To acquire an English teaching job in China is now more accessible than ever due to the increasing demand for English-speaking teachers in the mainland. There are around 400 million students in need of English teachers and with British schools opening in southern China, it increases a variety in living experiences. If you want to live in a fast-paced city you may choose to find opportunities in bustling cities such as Shanghai or Beijing, however, if you desire a slow-paced quiet life you may look for jobs in Suzhou or Hangzhou.
- Salary packages
You’ll be pleased to note that the salary for teaching in China is somewhere around $1000 – $3000 per month which is not a lot in hindsight but if you’re living in China as well you’ll have much more disposable income to save as living costs in China are not as high compared to that of Great Britain and America. Once you complete a contract, you’re also due for a bonus and most teaching jobs come with extra coverage for travel, visa fees, and in some cases even accommodation.
- Travel Opportunities
Public transportation is highly efficient in China thus making it easy to make day trips to other cities. Plus, being a teacher especially in a British school means you are likely to have a weekend off which makes it possible to enjoy life as a tourist as well.
What makes you eligible to teach in China
At the end of the day, the opportunities seem enticing but you also have to be eligible to teach in China. Here are some of the qualities British Schools in China look for in a teacher:
- A clean record: As you will be teaching mainly teenagers and in some cases toddlers it’s necessary for your employers to know that you’re a respectful and safe addition to the team.
- A TEFL certification: This is for those of you who want to teach English in China.
- A Bachelor’s degree: If you’re teaching a subject, a Bachelor’s degree is required for that particular field.
- Commitment for a year: Most teaching contracts will require you to be contracted for at least a whole year.
- 24-55 Age: Teachers are preferred to be in this age bracket.
These are the main requirements expected of you if you’re applying to be a teacher in China, however, due to high demand, there are some positions that may not require a Bachelor’s degree. English teachers especially are only required to have some form of language certification and if you come from a country where English is the native language, you are already given priority. Hence, if you’re interested after reading through this article make sure to research your position of choice thoroughly to be aware of their requirements.
