A number of foreign people want to find a job in Shanghai, and there are also plenty of jobs in education, as the Chinese see English as a key to high-paying jobs both in China and abroad. You should pay attention to the following things when you want to teach in shanghai.
A number of foreign people want to find a job in Shanghai, and there are also plenty of jobs in education, as the Chinese see English as a key to high-paying jobs both in China and abroad. You should pay attention to the following things when you want to teach in shanghai.
Jobs for Everyone
Whether you are already a professional or an inexperienced first-timer, there is something for everyone in Shanghai. Kindergartens, universities, language institutes, and private students are all looking for both general English and business English teachers. Many local and international schools cater to a variety of ages and levels. Saturday children's programs, adult evening classes, or daytime university courses may all make up a Shanghai teacher's week.
Full-time work consists of about 20 contact hours. The time is spent teaching classes, leading English corners, and performing other duties at the school. Class preparation time is not included, but planning classes and organizing your materials may only take a few extra hours a week. Most schools have all kinds of materials available, including books, tapes or CDs, DVDs, and other supplementary tools. Computers and Internet service are also readily available.
Another option is freelancing. Freelancing is great because you have the freedom to decide when you work, what kind of students you want to take on, and how much you want to charge. The minimum is RMB 150 (about $18) per hour.
Certification in Shanghai
Salaries in Shanghai range from RMB 4,000 to RMB 14,000 and up. The higher-paying jobs require a teaching certificate. However, many schools do not care if it is internationally recognized or not. So before you shell out for a TEFL course, it is best to decide if you are a career teacher or a short-termer. If you are a short-termer, think about doing a local training program in Shanghai. Some schools offer free hands-on training and certificates for doing 500 ESL teaching hours. The certificate may not be internationally recognized, but when you finish it will allow you to have a great job in Shanghai.
Finding a Job
Quite a few schools are taking advantage of the English craze and are concerned with making money and not with their students, language learning, or the foreign teachers. Check out schools on the Internet, and ask the directors for email addresses of the teachers. Many schools look far better and promise far more on the Internet than in reality. The teachers’ insights will help you get a better idea of what a day-in-the-life is like and if the school would suit you.
The packages that schools offer vary. Some offer accommodation, airfare reimbursement, an end-of-contract bonus, and free Chinese language classes. All are willing to help you settle in and get your feet on the ground. Even if the school may not offer accommodation, they can recommend a real estate agent and assist you with the language.
Getting a Visa
Most soon-to-be teachers arrive on a 90-day tourist visa. Once they are in Shanghai the school helps them to obtain a 6-month or 1-year visa. Wait for a month or two and see if you like the school before you let them get you one. Another option is to take a trip to Hong Kong, especially if you are a freelancer. The visas are available in travel agencies.