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Sign up with Google Sign up with FacebookQ: Is there any qualifications for non-native speakers who wants to teach in China?
To enlighten the confused mind of non-native speakers who are qualified in all aspects to teach but the chance is too low because of the marketing demand in China.
11 years 42 weeks ago in Teaching & Learning - China
I'm a little confused by what you mean by 'qualified in all aspects', in a question about finding qualifications? If you mean that you are a tertiary-educated professional teacher in your home country, then you shouldn't need to study any more, just attempt to sell your strengths as they are.
As far as specific ESL qualifications go, the CELTA course, which is fairly highly regarded, accepts non-native teachers if their English level is high enough, and having it would certainly help you appeal to a wider market. I can recommend the course as being rigorous.
But be aware that all too often, in the private market, what employers are looking for a young, white face with the right passport and that's the end of it. Good luck.
Shining_brow:
What she said!
Although, I might add... in the bigger cities like BJ, SH etc, you may find that non-nativeness is more readily accepted, as they've had more experience with nationalities.. ie, they get that non-English speakers are still quite good. I think there's a lot more ignorance in the less cosmopolitian cities.
There is no such thing like native,non-native in Beijing all you need is skills and looks.I've lots of phillipino teachers in my school and i think that their english level is pretty good.So,be optimistic.Goodluck!!
They even hire Russians who don't speak any english to teach english at the preschools
Technically, there should be no non-native speakers teaching English, then again technically you should have a real degree even if a native of an English speaking country, technically you should have a legitimate visa, but than again technically you must be white, the list goes on. All I can say is, if you have a good command of English and you are wanting to work your butt off, living on the edge of the 100 day crack down, you really only need to find a training school. Just be warned, China isn't so lax as it was, people are getting busted all over China, just be wary
Thanks for the comment. Actually, I'm sorry to disappoint you but I've been working in Shanghai for 7 years and the treatment of the people there are admirable. Although, the training is extensive but its worth. Yes, legal documents is very important esp if your applying for your visa.
excuse me all but don't you think failing to hire a person who is well qualified just because is black sounds rather senseless and awful? thanks.
MissA:
I agree it is 'sensless and awful'. I'd also add, 'short-sighted', 'stupid','self-defeating' and 'racist' to that list. As it is, that is the reality of teaching in China for many people.
In China it is possible to find teaching jobs even if you are not a native-English speaker, and even if you have no degree, no TESOL, and no experience. It is just more difficult to find those schools.
rasklnik:
Can you find a one-legged blind dwarf prostitute? Yes, but it may take awhile. Seriously, just cause something exists don't make it a good idea.
I agree with rasklnik's comment too. It may not be a good idea though. It depends on your situation, you may not be happy with the job.
I'm a non-native speaker with BA and MA in English language and literature. I've been successfully working as ESL teacher in China for almost two years. In a college the first year, in a training school currently and moving to a high school in September. Both my employers and all the students were, and still are, satisfied with my working ethic and teaching method. As a matter of fact, I've been always asked to renew my contract. But, I'm in search of something more challenging...
So, yes, a non-native can find a teaching job. In many schools there is no need for qualifications, but if you aim higher, then qualifications are a must.
What you need to legally teach in China is a Bachelor's Degree in any field,and a TEFL/TESOL certificate which is a 5 days course and on paper,it is 120 hrs.
The problem is not finding 'a' teaching job in China.The problem is finding a school that pays you an above average salary.If you are ready to accept an average job in China,you can have a few job offers every week.