There are several different types of employers to be aware of when making the decision to teach in China. Here's what kind to look out for.
- Public Colleges and Universities
Many sources recommend that this is the best situation a teacher can be in. These colleges and universities are easy to investigate and research.
- Private Schools which Teach English
These are private companies or individual ownders that offer English classes in many settings. These jobs can be misrepresented and filled with recruiters or owners only interested in increasing their profits. There are not many standards for hiring. If you can breathe and speak english, you can be hired.
- Private Colleges, Middle & Primary Schools
They too are interested in profits. There have been many complaints from American teachers regarding fraudulent contracts, substandard living conditions, large classrooms (60-70 students per class), poor curriculum (often obsolete books which are neither challenging nor useful), and unscrupulous administrators.
- Government Primary & Secondary Schools
These schools can vary in their settings, curriculum, class size and contracts. If signing a contract, make sure it is directly with the government primary and secondary school. Do not get involved with a dishonest recruiter who may extort money from you and the school.
- International Schools
These schools instruct the children of expatriates living in China. These schools cater to diplomats, employees of corporations, and families living in China to provide a different environment for their children. Make sure you have done much research to ensure your offer is from a legitimate school. Again, speak with American teachers who have taught there and now live back in the United States.
