TEFL & TESOL Teaching in China after the Pandemic

During the epidemic, many things changed, and many industries and aspects of life were affected. One thing that has impacted us all is travelling internationally without difficulty. Something that was once second nature in a small and linked society has become a challenge. We’ve second-guessed every travel decision we’ve made, and the majority of us haven’t left the nation in at least two years. Post Pandemic, there is so much you need to know for teaching English in China – English Teaching Requirements for TEFL or TESOL Teachers,  and we have covered all in this blog.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. With the introduction of vaccinations and governments gaining control of the appropriate social distancing measures, we may begin to plan our futures and pursue our ambitions.

China is the world’s most populous country, with more than 1.4 billion. China spans five geographical time zones and borders 14 different countries, the second-most of any country in the world after Russia. The whole country is full of rich culture and tourist destinations and has one the oldest and most extraordinary histories in the world. 

Discover China as a TEFL/TESOL Teacher

When you’re not in the classroom, China has a plethora of locations to visit, from the breathtaking scenery of Zhangjiajie National Park to mega-cities that blend rich history with cutting-edge technology.

Teachers have a wide selection of cities, locations, and climates to choose from because of the vast geography. Travel is quick and inexpensive thanks to high-speed trains and low-cost airlines, so you can make the most of your time abroad, wherever you choose to teach! China’s must-see attractions are well-known, and domestic Chinese tourists do a fantastic job of filling them up, especially around national holidays like the Spring Festival. However, there are still some unexplored areas. While everyone wants to cross “walked on the Great Wall” off their bucket list, this is a place where you could spend a lifetime and yet not see everything.

One of the beauties of China is its diversity; practically anyplace you go, you will be greeted with a pleasant and warm welcome. China’s massive high-speed train network – the world’s most significant – makes exploring a breeze. Put the big names on your itinerary, of course — ascending the Great Wall is awe-inspiring – but also attempt to visit China’s lesser-known regions.

Teaching English in China

ESL teaching in China is trendy and teaching jobs within the public school system or in private language institutes are easy to come by. They are always looking for new teachers, and there is tremendous turnover. Schools will often cover many expenses and overcome any hurdles to get you into the country and teaching. You will have the upper hand once you get your TEFL certification and have a Bachelor’s Degree. 

If you are looking to teach online through a Chinese company, first read our blog on new Chinese regulations that came into effect after the pandemic, as this will affect your decision making when it comes to accepting job offers. 

English Teaching Requirements for TEFL or TESOL Teachers 

Compared to other Asian nations, the prerequisites for becoming an ESL teacher in China are elementary, with legalizing documents and teaching experience not generally required. Teaching employment in China can bring excellent possibilities for teachers, thanks to a diverse range of places and schools. Not to mention that the country itself has a lot to offer in terms of culture, language, travel options, and cuisine!

With China’s population and high demand for foreign teachers to come in, there is just one requirement that you’ll need to have – a Bachelor’s Degree. This is for the work permit and to apply for a working visa or Z-visa. This will enable you to work there legally. Look up what can be done on this visa legally and what the school expects you to do. Some schools may say that it is not needed, but please be wary and ask all the right questions when seeing this. They may put you through a student or X2 visa. The two can be very different, and you don’t want to put yourself in a difficult situation. 

How to get there 

Because China is huge within the business world and has a lot of international communications, China is much simpler to get to than you think, from anywhere in the world. Its domestic travel systems (trains, buses, flights) are excellent, so don’t worry about being miles away from Beijing or Shanghai. You’ll still be able to get to your destination. 

Once you secure a job offer and invitation letter, you can apply for a visa. The hiring program or school will help you through the process. Our supported job does help you through the whole process, making a move more straightforward and a lot less stressful. 

The TEFL Institute Training program and Job Opportunity

For all aspiring teachers, the TEFL Institute offers a supported opportunity. Our internal training program and TEFL certification will help you prepare for the road ahead and become a confident ESL instructor. We give pre-departure and ongoing support at The TEFL Institute. We are always available to help with any concerns you may have, especially when it comes to moving abroad after the pandemic. 

Teach children in China, and you will have a memorable and fulfilling experience. As a teacher, you will have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of both your pupils and yourself.

To educate children in China with our partners, you do not need prior teaching experience. All you have to do is be willing to learn, and we’ll take care of the rest.

As a Kids and Teens instructor, you will educate kids aged 3 to 18. Your kids are energetic and outgoing, with plenty of energy and eagerness to study. As a teacher, you must arrive prepared and ready to have a good time in class. It would be best if you organized fun, educational sessions that include games and activities.

FAQs

What is a TEFL/ TESOL qualification?

A TEFL or TESOL qualification certifies you to teach English to non-native speakers. This certification will help you obtain visas, move abroad, get a work permit, and give you the knowledge to teach English with confidence and without the use of translation. Students will learn new words and proper grammar and sentence structure through TEFL/ TESOL methodologies. 

Can you teach online with a TEFL/ TESOL certificate?

Yes, of course! The courses cover both online and in-classroom methodologies, giving you the skills to teach in whichever setting you’d prefer. There are options to upskill with a specialist course like the Teaching English Online Course, which focuses more on these methodologies and makes you more employable. 

What’s the difference between TESOL and TEFL?

TEFL stands for teaching English as a foreign language, while TESOL stands for teaching English as a second language. This means that TEFL courses are geared towards teaching abroad or online. When the student is in their home country and teaches the grammar and vocabulary appropriately in every English speaking country. In contrast, TESOL is geared towards teaching English in YOUR country to non-native speakers. Therefore, focusing on a unique English language, like British English or American English. 

In saying this, the two are interchangeable as they both cover all aspects. However, TEFL is looked at more favourably in Asia and may even be asked for a visa or employment. For this reason alone, getting a TEFL certificate is worth it! If you already have a BEd or CELTA but need a quick certification, we recommend the 120 hours TEFL Course, which will be fast to do as you are already trained, affordable, and cover all visa requirements. 

Is TESOL/ TEFL internationally recognized?

This is dependent on the course that you choose to do. Things to watch out for would be the provider’s accreditation and if the course is country-specific. All of the TEFL Institute’s courses are internationally recognized and employer recommended. 

The UAE now only accepts a level 5 qualification for their work permit, so we would highly recommend the 180 hour Level 5 TEFL Course if this country is on your list. 

How much does it cost to get a TEFL or TESOL certificate?

This is dependent on the provider and the course that you choose. You’ll need a minimum of 120 hours to be qualified. But can choose higher qualifications or a course package with additions, such as the Teaching English Online Course mentioned above. To compare costs, see our course overview page.