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1. What level of education do I need?
Degree holders are preferred, but experience and desire are second to none. We can place you in a Teaching Position without a degree. We can also place you in a Position if you are currently a College or University Student. The placement level and salary will depend on your credentials.
2. Do I have to be TEFL/TESOL certified?
It is always an advantage when you have additional education or training. But most of our Teachers are recruited without any Certification. We can prepare and certify you here in our facilities in China. Certification is not a requirement.
3. What is the difference between a TESOL and CELTA certification?
CELTA is apparently more widely recognised than TEFL. TESOL is an American qualification. See http://www.ihes.com/bcn/tt/tefl_tesol.html for a good explanation.
4. What about Training?
Our program includes a five day Tefl and Cultural Immersion Training at our facilities in Qingdao, China (An Ocean City and Home of the 2008 Sailing Olympics). You will receive your International TEFL Certification at the end of the training session, which are classified into three categories:
1) 20-hour TEFL courses: “How to Teach English in China,” given by TEFL experts who have already been teaching in China for years;
2) 6-hour Culture courses: “Chinese Laws, Cultures and Social Taboos,” given by local Chinese professors.
3) 4-hour Mandarin courses: “Survival Pu-tong-Hua (Mandarin),” given by our staff
4) In addition, you will receive “Registration” by America China Education Registry which will qualify you for this Program.
5. What is ACER?
ACER is America China Education Registry. We operate under their certification. This certifies that we comply with not only teaching certification, but cultural certification as well.
6. Is there an age limit?
It is preferred that you are between 20-65, but being active and healthy are an important criteria. We have a very active program of placement for AARP Members. See www.MyChinaAdventure.com.
7. Are there any China-specific credentials that I need?
None. Bring your manners and your desire to be a part of the International Community. Always be diplomatic. In addition, in our Program you will be certified by The America China Education Registry. This certifies you as someone who has studied the cultural aspects of teaching and living in China. It is “China Specific,” and a valuable addition to your Resume.
8. How safe is China?
China is very safe, but always use common sense. You will always feel very safe, comforable, welcome, and respected in China.
9. What fees, if any, does the Program charge me?
There are NO Program Fees. We do offer an optional 40 Hour One Week TEFL/TESOL Certification Course, and the Fee is $595. This Course is optional, and not required. Completion of this course and certification will increase your salary level.
10. Will the program or the school I work at employ me? Who will pay me?
You will be employed by the program not the school. You are be paid promptly at the end of each month. This is a distinct advantage over being paid by the school as it simplifies the salary, payment and administrative processes.
11. Will my living accommodation be paid for?
Yes
12. Is it a furnished apartment? If so, what furnishings are included?
Yes, with all standard things:
Television and Internet are available, but there are modest fees for cable and internet connections.
Own room with bed and covers.
Kitchen with fridge, range/oven, microwave and utensils.
Lounge with sofa, chairs, and table.
Complete bathroom with shower.
Washing Machine.
13. Can I see what my living accommodations will look like before I move it?
Yes, we can send you photos and web links for your living accommodations.
14. Are my utilities such as Internet and phone paid for?
No, these are shared between you and your fellow roommates. These costs are very modest by Western standards.
15. What other out of pocket expenses will I have?
Meals outside school lunchtime and private travel in the evenings or at weekends.
16. Will my airfare be paid for?
For a completed one-semester contract you will be reimbursed 4,000 Yuan and for a completed two-semester contract 8,000 Yuan towards the cost of your airfare.
17. What other benefits does this program offer? (Ex. Chinese classes).
There are free Mandarin lessons, and you will meet many Chinese who will want to exchange lessons with you as well.
18. Will someone from the school be at the airport to pick me up when I land?
Yes, someone will pick you up from the local airport and assist in orienting you to your new environment.
19. Will the program/my future employer secure the proper visa and paper work?
Yes, upon your arrival you will be registered with the authorities and your visa will be renewed at the employer's expense.
20. Is the school licensed by the SAFEA to hire foreign teachers?
Yes, our program operates in full compliance with SAFEA. We also work with the national, local and even foreign governments to create the best program for you.
21. How long is the teaching contract? Can it be extended or broken?
A one or two semester contract is normal. It can almost always be extended. We also offer Summer Programs as well as short terms assignment. You can always quit and leave China if you are unhappy. This is a rarity.
22. Is there paid overtime if I have to work past the hours stated in my contract?
Yes. And, you are also free to negoitate additional tutoring work for which there is a big demand. Other employment other than tutoring is not permitted.
23. Do I have to pay taxes on my salary to the Chinese government? Will I have to declare my salary to America?
You will probably not earn enough to come under the Chinese tax system for one or two semesters. You are still responsible for your taxes, if any from your home country, but you will have heavy deductions.
24. Does the school/program offer English teacher training?
Yes, we offer a one program in which you will receive the following training and receive two Certifications. See Training/Orientation and TEFL/TESOL Certification.
You will receive both your TEFL and your ACER certifications. TEFL is Teaching English as a Foreign Language, and ACER is a certification that you have received cultural/teaching training for a China appointment.
25. Am I provided a curriculum to work with or do I make my own lesson plans?
Yes, you are provided with a suggested curriculum, but you have a lot of flexibility. Remember, you already speak English.
26. Are the teaching materials available through the school, or am I responsible for buying my own?
The school will provide you with all the necessary books and teaching materials.
27. What are the ages and English levels of my students?
Mainly primary school age, thus beginners to basic level.
28. Can I choose the classes and hours that I want to teach?
Timetables are set by the school, so you should fit into these. However, negotiation with the school and fellow teachers may be possible.
29. How many students will I have per class?
An average of fifty students.
30.What are the total number of hours of work are required?
Around 18 to 22 hours per week with occasional lunchtime activities.
31.How many days do I get off per week?
Under normal circumstances you will have the weekend free..
32. Does the Program provide health insurance?
You should arrange your own health insurance. We can assist with Travel and Emergency Insurance. Contact our Office upon acceptance into the Program.
33. Is transportation provided to and from my school each day?
Most accommodation is close to your school, where it is not, transportation will be provided.
34. Is my salary negotiable?
The minimum salary of 4,000 RMB is guaranteed, with salary increases based on your credentials and experience. Salaries can be, and frequently are, adjusted upward during the Program period.
35. Am I free to engage in outside employment?
You cannot accept outside “employment,” but you can teach and tutor “on the side” with both Students and Adults. This can be very lucrative. You will have to decide whether you want the money or the free time.
36. What type of clothing should I bring to wear while I teach?
Be casual-smart. You are teaching, so look the part. Sloppy dressing suggests sloppy work.
37. Will I be able to live on my salary or should I come with extra money?
Some money for the first month is essential until your first payment, but after this the average person gets by with no problem. Some even save. Remember, your room and board are paid for.
38. Can you tell me some of the typical costs in China, (a beer at the bar, one way bus fare, a typical Chinese meal out)? Do they tip in China?
A beer can cost anything between 3 and 30 Yuan. A bus journey is usually 1 or 2 Yuan. A good meal might cost between 10 and 50 Yuan. (6.8 yuan to 1 USD). Tipping is not a part of China. Save your money.
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