What to Expect Teaching English in China: Frequently Asked Questions

No matter how excited you are or how much you prepare for the life changing opportunity of teaching English abroad, it can still be difficult knowing what to expect. 

Here’s what you can expect in your new life as an English teacher in China! 

Work Environment & Teaching Experience

Whether or not you’ve taught before, you’ll face many cultural differences not just in your social life but also in the classroom.

What is a typical work schedule like?

The typical work schedule of a teacher in China depends on their unique school type and policy. However, you can typically expect to work the following schedule: 

• Public Schools: English teachers at public schools in China will generally adhere to a more traditional school schedule, working from around 8am to 4pm from Monday to Friday. Teachers can expect to have around 14–20 contact hours per week, with free periods during the day to complete administrative duties.

• Private Language Centers: Private language centers typically cater to students learning during after school hours. Therefore, teachers can expect to work in the afternoon, evening, and on weekends, teaching students who want to learn English privately in addition to their regular school education. 

• International Schools: Teachers at international schools will have more standard weekday hours, but they may have a higher amount of contact hours or more administrative duties to perform. Typically, international teachers will teach between 20–25 teaching hours each week.

• Universities: Despite the high requirements, university teachers in China will have fewer work hours than other TEFL job types. Contact hours will vary from 8am to 5pm from Monday to Friday.

What are the classroom expectations and teaching styles in China?

As an English teacher in China, you’ll need to present yourself professionally in the classroom. Teachers are highly respected in China, and you’ll need to dress in smart attire, establish rules within the classroom, and respect the local customs. 

However, TEFL teachers are also in a unique position where they are encouraged to make use of games to facilitate language development. This is because TEFL teachers need to maximize the level of student-talk-time to correct their pronunciation. 

Using games to facilitate dialogue allows you to be more creative in the classroom, rather than merely focusing on traditional classroom activities such as bookwork. It is important to balance classroom management and discipline with engaging activities while learning. 

What kind of students will I teach?

Depending on the school, English teachers in China can teach from kindergarten all the way to adults. While most positions will be from primary to secondary education, it’s possible to teach adults English for Specific Purposes (ESP), especially if you have a background in business. 

Regardless of your students’ age, it’s important to note that the level of English proficiency will vary within classes. Even if your students are in the same classroom based on skill, it’s important to understand that these levels will still vary, and that some students will learn more slowly than others. 

What resources and teaching materials are available?

The availability of resources and teaching materials will vary significantly according to your unique school type, location, and so on. 

• Public schools: At public schools, you’ll be following a government approved curriculum in the classroom. Teachers will often have access to basic classroom resources such as whiteboards, computers and a projector. 

• Private schools: The teaching materials and classroom resources will often be more modern in private schools than in public schools. Additionally, you may be following a more western curriculum if this private school is catered to English learning.

• International schools: At an international school is where you’ll find the best classroom resources for teaching. You’re likely to be following a western curriculum and textbooks developed by Oxford, Cambridge, or other. 

Read more: 7 AI Tools You Need as A Teacher!

Cultural Adaptation, Daily Life, and Common Challenges

Going to live in another country - not just visit - can bring forth many questions and concerns about safety and challenges which may affect our experience. 

What is it like living in China as a foreigner?

Living in China as a foreigner can be both exhilarating and challenging. This is because teachers will gain insight into vastly different cultural practices, new languages, food, landscapes, and much more. 

However, they’ll also face challenges such as culture shock and language barriers. In some instances, travellers may also feel isolated, as it can sometimes be hard to form relationships with the local population and community as  a foreigner. 

How easy is it to learn Mandarin?

Mandarin is arguably one of the most challenging languages to learn. This is especially because in the west, people are used to speaking a monotone language. In Mandarin, however, there are five tones to consider when speaking the language, and teachers will need to learn to read an entirely new script. 

What cultural differences should I be aware of?

English teachers in China will notice stark differences between Chinese culture and their home country. 

Contrary to other cultures like in America, China places a huge emphasis on collectivism. This also means there is much more emphasis on family values  in China. There is also much less emphasis on personal space in China. While people in the workplace (and outside) seem to be more direct in the UK and US, people in China may be more indirect with their communication. 

How is the expat community in China?

There are many TEFL teachers, business professionals, and travelers who frequent China. Cities such as Shanghai in particular have a strong international presence, making it easier to make friends and fit in with the international community in China. 

Is it safe to teach and live in China?

Yes! China is a very safe country to visit or live in. China has a very low crime rate, and is statistically much safer than other countries such as the United Kingdom or the United States. 

Teachers are especially safe in China, since they’re a respected profession and they will quickly familiarise themselves with the local customs and their surroundings. 

Source: Numbeo

What are the biggest challenges foreign teachers face?

Some of the biggest challenges that foreign teachers face teaching English in China include: 

• Language barriers: Mandarin and other dialects can be very difficult to learn, and not everyone you come across will speak English. Whether you’re trying to find directions, book a doctor’s appointment, or something else, language barriers can make even the most basic tasks difficult. 

• Culture shock: Chinese culture is polarising when compared to other western cultures, and even small things can get to you on a bad day. Whether it’s the lack of personal space, indirect or “beating around the bush” communication, or the amount of attention drawn to you as a foreigner, you’re likely to experience culture shock to some degree while teaching in China. 

• Classroom management: Difficult students are inherent to any country, but these feelings of frustration can be amplified when you combine language barriers and cultural differences. Often, you’ll have a local co-teacher assisting you in the classroom. If not, you will need to establish firm classroom rules, but don’t be afraid to reach out for behavioural management assistance from local teachers. 

How do I handle culture shock and homesickness?

Everyone experiences culture shock to some degree or another. There are many ways that you can combat culture shock while teaching English in China. 

• Learn basic Mandarin phrases: While you aren’t necessarily expected to become fluent in Mandarin, learning even basic phrases will enrich your experience. Not only can it help you greet people, ask questions, and express opinions, but it will help you connect with locals who find your language learning endearing. 

• Establish a routine: Establishing a routine is key to overcoming culture shock. Familiarity can help us cope during days of anxiety or stress, whether this means walking the same park each day, going to a gym, visiting the same cafe every day, creating a nightly routine, and so on. 

• Find a support network: Connecting with other expats can make you feel less homesick because you’ll share cultural similarities. Joining groups on social media, sports teams, and other clubs can help you meet people and form a community in your new home.

• Go with the flow: As cliche as it sounds, go with the flow! Chaos, improvisation, and surprises are inherent to teaching English abroad. You’re in a new culture which offers many amazing things, but also things which may frustrate you. Rather than resisting these cultural differences, acknowledge that they exist and adjust to them!  

Read more: Essential Things to Know Before Teaching Abroad in China

Teaching English in China with Confidence 

TEFL teaching involves jumping into the unknown, and China’s culture can be completely polarising to what you’re familiar with at home. However, doing your research, applying yourself in the classroom, being open minded and going with the flow will greatly enhance your life as a teacher in China!