TEFL jobs in China
The world’s largest TEFL market can be found in China, where opportunities can be discovered right across this huge country. Many jobs offer teachers perks such as flight reimbursement, accommodation, health insurance and competitive wages, making it an attractive prospect for newly-qualified and experienced EFL teachers alike.
With English lessons now compulsory for school children aged nine and above, the market teaching to young learners in China is huge, as is the Business English sector. Jobs are plentiful, and in a country where intrepid TEFL teachers can have a real adventure and experience a unique culture, it’s no wonder that China is one of the most popular destinations in the world for newly-qualified teachers.
Where to find work in China
Teachers approaching China for the first time would be wise to go with a well-known chain company, particularly if they don’t have experience. A large franchise which provides plenty of lesson materials and support will be a huge benefit if you’re new to the TEFL world, and as franchise schools often have a large staff, there will be plenty of other expats around as you settle into this strange new world. After a one year contract with one of the large companies, you might decide to chase a higher paying job, like those at international schools if you have the relevant qualifications, or perhaps specialise in teaching in a kindergarten or Business School. Do an internet search for TEFL jobs in China and you’ll get hundreds of results any day of the year, but here we’re listing a few of the well-known recruitment agencies, schools and franchises which are popular with new TEFL teachers.
Employers in China
Berlitz requires a degree and TEFL, and preferably some experience, especially in Business English. 18,000 – 25,000 RMB per month. Contracts are for one or two years, working 40 hours a week.
BFSU offer one year contracts teaching young learners in their English training centres in Beijing, Nanjing and Suzhou.
Chengdu Golden Apple Child Education Group runs more than 30 kindergartens in Chengdu. You need a degree and 2 years postgrad experience, and further qualifications for their IB accredited kindergartens. 10,000 – 12,000 RMB per month plus a furnished apartment. 20 – 28 teaching hours a week, one-year contract.
EF English First is a global company, with over 300 schools in China across 60 cities. You need a degree, a TEFL qualification, and will be background checked. Positions are for one year, with the ability to extend, and many teachers stay on and progress to Senior Teacher positions within several years. Between 12,000 and 15,000 RMB per year, plus 8,000 RMB flight allowance, CDP such as a TKT qualification, and other benefits. Teaching predominantly young learners, some teen and adult classes depending on the branch. Lessons are often mornings and afternoons on the weekends, and from around lunchtime until 9pm on your three working weekdays.
Save yourself the trouble of trawling through job listings by approaching an agency. Gold Star Recruitment sends numerous teachers to China every year. Degree and TEFL preferred, also experience is useful, for positions of around 9,000 – 17,000 RMB per month.
Shane English / Saxoncourt hires teachers at dozens of schools across China, salaries around 16,000 – 20,000 RMB per year.
If you want to learn more about Teaching English in China Salary and the requirements for foreign teachers, this page about Teaching Salaries in China can help you.
Find numerous listing for current TEFL jobs in China on The TEFL Org Jobs Centre.
Only TEFL Org students & graduates can apply for these TEFL jobs in China.
Not TEFL Org qualified yet? Take one of our accredited TEFL courses in the UK or online.
