Teaching in China: Is It Still Worth it in 2024?

In this video, we're exploring the future of teaching in China. Is it still worth it to teach in China in 2023/2024? Based on current trends, the answer may be a little surprising.
As China continues to grow wealthier, more students are enrolling in international schools and training programs. This is good news for teachers, as there is a demand for qualified educators. However, the Chinese educational system is complex and not as liberal as it once was. There may be challenges in the future for teachers who want to work in China.
We'll discuss the pros and cons of teaching in China and what you need to know if you’re considering a career here. China’s double reduction policy was introduced in 2021. In this video which starts in October 2022 and ends in August 2023, we discuss the state of teaching then, and now.
I’m covering the different types of institutions where you can teach in China and my opinion of each one. I also interviewed a few of my colleagues, and it was great to hear their perspectives!
This is a long one, but a must-watch if you’re considering teaching in China. So whether you're already teaching in China or just curious about the industry’s future, this video is for you!
Teaching in China video: • Teaching English in Ch...
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[@emjay6828]

I left in 2022 after 17 years an don't regret it at all, but the constant changes and attitudes towards foreigners just wasn't worth it anymore

[@DualityIsAThing]

Wow 17 years! Thanks for commenting, it’s good to know even people who stayed longer than I still felt the same way.

[@carolineanderson5466]

Jessica, thank you for sharing this video with us. A lot of what you said I could relate to. Me and my family moved to China just about a month after you arrived and we left in May of last year. I also did not want to leave and am still mourning our life there. Like you we couldn't stay for work related reasons and also our mental health too. A relationship with China is so complex one which people who haven't lived there might struggle to understand. I hope you find peace and healing in America this year and you are surrounded with beautiful relationships.

[@DualityIsAThing]

💚💚💚💚

[@liilianalopez1155]

I watched it all the way through.Thank you so much for helping us with this life changing decision!

[@DualityIsAThing]

Wonderful! Thank you and happy decision making!

[@ExploreWithMohamed]

Thanks for sharing this amazing documentary regarding teaching in China. I'll be visiting there soon to do some teaching, still haven't find a job yet but this was a excellent blueprint for what type of jobs i wanted for the future. Thanks once again 🙏🏽

[@DualityIsAThing]

Thank you! I hope you find the perfect position for you!

[@nkululekomabaso1629]

I’m new to this channel. I got here at the end of May 2023 and thank you for sharing this information. I’ve taken down some notes. 👍🏽

[@DualityIsAThing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@numinouswavs]

Very thorough review!! Awesome video :D

[@DualityIsAThing]

Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Luizalalala]

Great video, Jessica! It was so nice seeing everyone and hearing their opinions. It’s crazy, but it kinda made me miss the school 😂❤

[@DualityIsAThing]

So glad you liked it! I miss the kids, but the school? Yeah that’s a little crazy 😂❤️❤️❤️

[@opaljohnson4762]

Very informative, thanks for sharing

[@DualityIsAThing]

Glad it was! Thank you for watching!

[@PKP1]

Paul broke it down really well. The awesome part of teaching in China for me was the amazing friendships the were made.

[@DualityIsAThing]

That’s great!

[@missneah0215]

It was really savvy of you to record those interviews then, so that we could all benefit from them now. I wish Justin, Dustin, and Luiza (and her baby girl) health and happiness. It had to feel like a bit of a betrayal to dedicate so many years of their lives to the country and make it through the lockdown and have it all flip on them just like that. 😢 As someone who has been in the process of getting over there since Nov 2022, you're right: International schools/Kindergartens are the likeliest bet. My liaison hinted it is almost the only bet and they are also priortizing lao wei who are already over there. I get the feeling it is considerably cheaper and more time saving as flights and visas are currently both a nightmare. Hope springs eternal and this has been a longtime dream of mine, so I am hoping/praying to get there soon! Also as an "actual" and one-day career teacher (lol) I appreciate both your candidness and respect for the occupation. 😉☺️ Stay safe out there in those zhongguo streets and be well!

[@DualityIsAThing]

Your agent is right. If you're already in China it is very easy to get a job. Much more difficult if you aren't. Kudos to you for staying tenacious through the process to get there! I wish I had Kevin's interview but really glad I at least had these! Everyone is doing really well in their post- i2 life... except me... well at least right now lol. It's wild you mentioned how it felt to have everything flip when they ended zero-covid... my next video mentions that exactly! Thanks for subbing! Wishing you much success in your job search and travel to Zhongguo! 💚

[@AleeseLightyear]

Nothing but the TRUTH!! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 I'll add that-- if you're looking to come teach in China, international schools now are wanting to hire more specialized teachers who can teach English plus a subject like history, science, math, drama, art, or PE. If you want to make good $$ and have a more stable job, then you gotta come with experience and skills. Thanks Jess for putting in the work to create this extremely informative video! 😃

[@DualityIsAThing]

100%! So glad you enjoyed!

[@kiryekatie]

From your experience, is it standard that you need to have a teaching license in your home country (in my case the USA) in order to be qualified to work at an International School? You cannot, for example, have a Masters, TEFL, and experience ... you MUST have a license? Love your videos @TheJesstination and @AleeseLightyear!

[@themediterraneanguy]

Great video about teaching, so useful & informative. I'm a teacher myself and I appreciate it. THANKS

[@DualityIsAThing]

You’re welcome! Glad it was helpful!

[@PKP1]

This is really key information for me as I was considering returning to teach in China.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DoyinVoice]

Hey I was thinking of teaching in China too

[@PKP1]

Justin's response is one that I think from my experience seems familiar from my time over 10 years ago and does feel like it's heading in that direction he described.

[@gretaosborne5750]

Thanks for sharing! My daughter and I were in Zhangzhou from Sept 2018-Jan 2019. We worked at different learning centers. We worked for EF (I bought fell off the couch when you mentioned them). We were dissatisfied with the curriculum and felt that the parents weren't getting their money's worth. Those children weren't learning the language because it was only taught to them once & each time it was more & more frustrating. I met a guy from Baltimore MD and he suggested teaching in high school. I actually got an interview, but my daughter was ready to check out, so we did. I enjoyed the experience, once they got over seeing a real black person. It was quite annoying at first, to say the least. I'm looking to teach again, possibly this time next year, but I'm considering Taipai Taiwan. Thanks again for sharing.

[@DualityIsAThing]

You and your daughter! Wow, that is so awesome even though it was so little time. It takes at least a year to get comfortable so I totally understand your daughter being over it. Such an amazing experience you got to share together! Yeah...EF and many companies like it were a joke. They're still in business, so they've done something right lol. Thanks so much for watching and sharing this comment!

[@bobevans9996]

go home - don't make china another usa - it's evil

[@DIYDiaz]

RIP to that video footage 🥀 It was probably for the best tho lol. Anyways, awesome video as always. I really enjoyed seeing other teachers from various background 🙌🏽

[@DualityIsAThing]

Mannn. He’s been in China for 9 years and has grown a family. He said so many great things! 😩 But yeah, the footage disappearing probably saved us from ourselves lol!

[@Englishman_in_China]

Sad to hear but thanks for the information. I’ve not been in china for years and was excited to return to teach but looks like I’ll be cancelling my plans as it sounds like it’s over for esl teachers

[@DualityIsAThing]

I think the verdict is still out in terms of it being completely over, but it's definitely not great for those of us who left China. I think it's OK for people who are still there.

[@GlobalMindsetRealism]

You’re correct with everything. I graduated with a BA and then pursued by MA later on. My first experience was in Beijing and the salary was amazing. I started of at $64kUSD and then it went up from there working in an international school. I honestly wouldn’t recommend international schools due to the stress levels and the parents devaluing your teaching career and experiences. Yes you can make now if you have IB experience and certification close to $8,000USD per month. I would consider training schools if the salary is close to it and if there’s management positions available.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@PRIMSTER-gg8xj]

Hello. Currently I’m teaching in Thailand and I am hoping to move to China soon. What certifications and “ib experience” do you recommend?

[@NickEinstein]

Hey Jess, thanks for this video! I can really relate with your take on scheduling, weekends and holidays. I'm planning on coming (hopefully Chengdu) to teach this fall and looking for something chill. A chill training school??

[@michellehadebe8162]

What a great video!

[@DualityIsAThing]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@rachelmillison7939]

I love what you had to say! So informative for a new comer (been here for almost 5 months) like myself. I was initially recruited by EF to come, just broke contract for another training school because it was h*ll on earth hahaha

[@DualityIsAThing]

Oh wowwww! The curse of EF China continues 😩 I'm glad you got out of there! Wishing you a much smoother ride into the next school!

[@kelly2444]

Your drone skills and footage is amazing. I love how crisp and clear the footage is. However, I read somewhere that the authorities in China don't like drones? or did they relax that?

[@DualityIsAThing]

Thanks so much! I’ve got a video coming up about flying in different countries. At first, China was actually the easiest one to fly in. DJI is based in Shenzhen, China so people feel proud to see a Chinese brand being used. The problem they now have is not drones flying, it’s foreigners flying drones because they think it’s for “spying” 🙄.

[@sakiohma6858]

I hate that teaching jobs/pay declined in China and covid broke out RIGHT when I finally graduated and got my degree. It has always been my dream to live in Asia 😢😭

[@DualityIsAThing]

Keep that dream alive! The economy and salaries will bounce back and remember Asia is HUGE. Tons of opportunities await you’re arrival!

[@umbrellastudio7481]

i don't understand, the covid ban was lifted last year in China, why you still talk about covid?

[@sakiohma6858]

I'm just expressing frustration with the fact that covid started as soon as I graduated with my degree and planned to move to China, and also the negative after effects of covid to the job market for foreigners. I wish I would have graduated sooner and took advantage of the benefits and pay while they were great. @@umbrellastudio7481

[@brianbro7375]

@@umbrellastudio7481 Based on how they were speaking in the video, it seems likely a lot of these recordings were done in 2022 before zero-covid was lifted.

[@findingmaitribe]

I worked in China. This video is 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾! FACTS on FACTS ✨!

[@DualityIsAThing]

So glad you enjoyed it! 😁

[@missneah0215]

Thanks!

[@DualityIsAThing]

Thank you so much! 💚💚💚

[@missneah0215]

Wish I could do more! When I can, I will. 你辛苦了！🧧 Keep up the great work, and stay strong! 🤗

[@DualityIsAThing]

谢谢你! 🤗🤗

[@the18Ting]

thanks for sharing your own perspectives plus other expat teachers' thoughts; very interesting to hear the impact of "double reduction" on foreign teachers.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@DavidNunezPNW]

I'm so happy China is making changes, public education is better because it's not only for the people with money, the working class and peasantry should be entitled to a proper education as well.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Absolutely, everyone should have access to a proper education.

[@MissLizaYangonMyanmar]

Great video. I am a licenced and registered teacher that meets all the strict visa requirments such as QTS. I was teaching for Peking Uni schools as an IB teacher in the international schools (Peking Uni is a massive business with many types of companies). After 7 years in China I had enough after being locked in for 2 years. I left when the second wave hit and China lost its mind. I loved my time in China but I will never return. It's not the China I knew now. Cheers from Myanmar that I love and I also do KZbin here. You are brave to do YT in China!!! I never did because, you know!

[@DualityIsAThing]

Thanks for watching!

[@Johann_in_China]

I worked in language schools for 8 years before moving to an International school, I regret every day that I stayed so long at a language school because in China do not really recognize language Centre teachers are real teachers. I love my life as an international school teacher.

[@Johann_in_China]

I think you do not have all the information about international schools, a little different from what you said. As an international teacher I earn 40k rmb and work only 188 days a year with all paid holidays. And I get 2000k usd travel allowance a year. And you definitely cannot compare the salaries especially when it comes to work hours.

[@MauritiusMoments]

What sites did you use to find jobs?

[@kueller917]

Part 1: Here the entire month of August in vacation time. The city is devoid, the local bakeries are closed. I'm always asked why I _don't_ take vacation in this time and it's cause going in the fall or spring means far cheaper prices and far less crowded trains. It's hell when everyone's moving at the same time. Also work is chill af when empty! Part 2: This one of the most fascinating and honest insights into recent changes in Chinese culture and policy. It's hard to keep up with these kinds of changes in foreign news because it starts feeling like a game of telephone. Interviewing other coworkers made it more impactful. As others have said even if you all couldn't say everything the implications came across as clear as could be. And you know thing is, even if policies are being done entirely in good faith (and I don't believe that to begin with), it still hurts when it's your industry that is affected. Much well wishes to you and all.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Regarding Part 1, where are you? Your plan is perfection! Part 2: Thank you so much! It's really difficult to explain these things to people who haven't been to China. I'm so glad they are coming across clearly in this video!

[@kueller917]

@@DualityIsAThing Much appreciated. You do a good job at presenting these topics. I'm in France! It's a known part the cities empty in August. But besides the sadness of your fav shops closing it's so nice to have a chill calm city for a month. Also I don't live [can't afford] the touristy center which is always busy.

[@weljenks]

The world isn't going to learn Chinese to a significant degree. There's a reason Korea came up with a 24 character alphabet centuries ago to replace all that kanji.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Shhhhh…don’t tell them that lol

[@blue-xb1cq]

​@@DualityIsAThing - Beijjing may remove English subject requirement in public schools. Most Chinese don't need/use English and translation apps/tools are sufficient they reason. That would be good for English training centers ( consider as an extracurricular activity ) if the demand is still there.

[@tinypanda]

China has a alphabet system called Pinyin to help foreigners pronounce Chinese characters, and based on that pronunciation, help select the right character from a selection of similar sounding characters when using apps / software. (Other forms of Chinese entry / writing in computers are also available such as free-form handwriting.) However, it doesn't replace their language (and culture, which language developed over time to express). It can't. It's a good crutch for beginners but you still have to know the language / characters in order to use Pinyin optimally. The Korean alphabet system is for similar purposes. Anyone who's been in Korea will see Korean characters still being used everywhere.

[@unreliablenarrator6649]

Actually, lots of International Schools are located in large cities, some smaller, such as the "dual-track" (CN/International curriculum bilingual), they are not boarding schools. My daughter just graduated Middle School in Shanghai and it was worth the hardship to get the money for this, but education first.

[@DualityIsAThing]

That’s awesome! Glad you found a great school for your daughter in Shanghai. Boarding school is the most comparable in the US is what I meant. I know they aren’t *all* boarding schools, many of my students at i2 go to international schools. A lot of the schools in Chongqing are the type where the kids live there. Whatever the word is for that in Chinese lol.

[@ESL-O.G.]

Good video. I lived and taught in China for four years but I am in Northern Vietnam now

[@DualityIsAThing]

Thanks! I enjoyed Hanoi way more than I thought I would. Northern Vietnam seemed like a really cool place to live.

[@girliGuess]

Is Vietnam better than China? I was a teacher back home (S.Africa), in an international school. I'm currently in S.Korea and I can't decide between the UAE, Vietnam and China. Working in Korea I realisee how spoilt I was back home with over 50 days of vacation a year. S.korea only offers 10 days a year. I love it here but I'm exhausted! I'd like to work at a school with enough school holidays to still explore the country. I only have time to work. Too exhausted for anything else.

[@ESL-O.G.]

@@girliGuess I have worked in South Korea as well so I know what you mean. They work you to death. If you're looking for a lots of holidays and days off then you should teach in China. There's so many holidays. However they're usually not paid. Also, the geopolitical situation in China as a little dodgy these days. You know they had everyone in lockdown for like two years, right?

[@lowkey745]

@ESL-O.G. HI hope you good. Thanks for the info. How's the pay in Vietnam. Would you recommend it against China

[@ESL-O.G.]

@@lowkey745 The pay is around eighteen hundred to twenty one hundred dollars for an experienced native speaker. Yes I recommend it over china

[@Peter-uo4vi]

Nice Video! I thought the regulations in China prohibited training schools/afterschool learning centers? If you enjoy traveling in Asia and working at smaller schools/centers, might I suggest "I Can Read". You won't make as much as your training school there, but here in Thailand the salary is a lot better than working at most international schools.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Thanks! I actually had a great interview with “I Can Read” and received an offer. I couldn’t get past the salary combined with being in a more expensive city. ☹️They seem like a great company though. There’s always a way around the regulations in China lol. The training schools that are still open were able to evade them by changing “English” teachers to “Drama” teachers and calling themselves development centers.

[@Peter-uo4vi]

Wow! That's awesome lol. Do you do any online teaching?@@DualityIsAThing

[@DualityIsAThing]

Yes, I did for about a year before I moved to China and I've recently started again.

[@corgi23jumpman27]

I was in Nanjing before Covid, even it was only a part English teacher, you’re right! You’re not just a teacher, even more than that, But i had good memories until Covid hits.

[@DualityIsAThing]

COVID ruined everything for us all

[@corgi23jumpman27]

@@DualityIsAThing I agree with you! I had so much fun in China before Covid, I wish it didn’t happened 😂 and i also wish that I did control my spending on taobao, bars and traveling i could have saved more😂 But it was a great memories, new friends and experiences.

[@MrBrowser1881]

As someone from the UK who has taught 18 years in China, also in a few schools on the higher end, got my PGCE etc, I have the exact same outlook to you interms of teaching at this stage. And I wouldn't commit that much if I had to do it all again.

[@MrBrowser1881]

I also started in Chongqing, awesome city

[@DualityIsAThing]

Glad this was relatable for you! ☺️

[@BrianWelch-kj9qs]

The Concrete Confessional blog guy wrote a hilarious article called "I Was Simon Song" about teaching / doing higher ed consulting for the children of China's rich and famous. He talks about the ominous political changes, too, but in a pretty balanced way. Worth checking out, for sure

[@DualityIsAThing]

Wait what do I search for because I’m only seeing Paul Simon, Simon from American Idol, and Simon Says 😂😂😂

[@JeepLove]

I wanted a training center but the weekends schedule stopped me. Im currently applying to private schools and public schools.... hoping its not too much work haha.

[@DualityIsAThing]

I hope you find a great school!

[@blackfluxx]

Thank you for this awesome video! I studied abroad in China thinking going back to teach and travel more. Have a BA and 5 years Teaching experience. Where would you recommend looking for job listings?

[@DualityIsAThing]

Thanks! Echinacities is a great website to find positions and recruiters. If you can download and WeChat it will be easier to get in contact with more recruiters and job group chats. Best of luck!

[@blackfluxx]

Thanks!

[@philscomputerlab]

I appreciate the comment about training schools. I'm subject teacher in Australia and everyone tells me to apply for top international schools, but you know, I'd rather have something simple. Running clubs and exceptions and academic pressure, it's a lot. I wish there were more part-time international opportunities. I rather have more time to actually do stuff 😂

[@DualityIsAThing]

YES! Not everyone finds joy in working hard at an elite school. I value my time and freedom far more than a job title. 😍

[@nysha3678]

I’m moving back to China this week actually living in Shanghai this time :) moving back for longer vacation days and of course the pay. Living and teaching in Seoul South Korea is trash🫠 great place to visit but the ESL industry for foreigners there is tanking.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Congratulations!! Seoul to Shanghai is an awesome move! I always wondered what teaching was like in Seoul since there's such a large American influence there. I did love visiting but the salaries were always much less than in China. Safe travels to the Hai!

[@ESL-O.G.]

Sad to hear. I had a good time when I taught in Korea back in 2005

[@gladyswhite3488]

I know this post is old but , I do agree that ESL in Korea is going down the drain. The golden years of ESL is over in ROK!!! Especially in terms of salary. I have been in South Korea for over 13 years. This is my final year. I`m also heading to China in 2024 . Hope I`m not to old . Got all the credentials

[@MauritiusMoments]

@@gladyswhite3488what’s the reason for the change there?

[@pathy421]

I'm Brazilian and I'm obsessed with Luiza's English

[@DualityIsAThing]

Jajajaja! When we first met I never would have guessed that she’s Brazilian. She’s amazing!

[@andrewflashchannelgibbs5384]

I was looking for videos on the state of education in China. I am in the middle of a contract and things have changed here in Shenzhen. English is considered less important by the education bureau but not the real people. I may have to leave this year after over 8 years. (Oh, great to see Dustin, I know him from Classical English in Shenzhen).

[@DualityIsAThing]

Oh wow...sorry to hear that. It seemed as though the schools that were still hanging on through 2022 were in a good position to keep their student base. That's so cool you know Dustn!

[@findingmaitribe]

New subbie here! Just found your channel from insta 🎉🎉🎉!

[@DualityIsAThing]

Yay! Welcome to the Party!

[@zhaoyun3153]

Follow your heart. If you're not fully dedicated to doing something, then leave it for someone who is. Base your life's work on what you love doing.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Yep! That’s exactly what I said in the video. 😊

[@zhaoyun3153]

@@DualityIsAThing Well actually, I didn't finish watching it, but I probably will today.

[@philipdutoit20]

Hi Jess, quick question, what are the covid vaccine requirements for Z Visa and entry?

[@DualityIsAThing]

I have no idea, but I know Google knows the answer!

[@logan3186]

Training schools have NEVER paid as much as international schools, at least not normally. You may find some exceptions. And the way things are going in China, the higher salaries will only be for native English speakers (probably white) who work at international schools. Training centers are becoming a thing of the past. After having worked at both, I will say there are international schools that don't have as many job duties as you mentioned. It was pretty stress-free most of the time, and the pay was a lot more. Although part of me misses the training center days.

[@DualityIsAThing]

I’ve had abnormal work experiences and contracts lol. Most people don’t negotiate properly. It takes longer to find the right school and salary package if you aren’t white but it can be done. I’m proof. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@Mickeii617]

Your description of what you want to do with teaching reminds me of like the cool auntie. Yeah, I like the kids. Love my nieces and nephews but at the end of the day you can go home your mama.. 😂😂 That's why I change my major in college. I want to use this opportunity to travel. So I would rather do something I actually want to do with school instead of trying to get a teaching degree. Especially, if I can still teach without it. Naturally, I'm great with kids but I can't see myself doing this for 30 years.

[@DualityIsAThing]

😂😂😂😂 That's one way to look at it lol

[@sakiohma6858]

The only reason I want to (and a lot of people) teach at an International school is because they usually pay for your children's education when they arrive in China and the hours are great for parents.

[@DualityIsAThing]

That’s changed a lot too in recent years but I agree, it’s a great benefit for those with children.

[@Smartbuys1]

I'll like a chat. Share your IG, pls

[@wasabi4356]

Hello, do you know if there was an update news in China about the South African kindergarten teacher assaulted by her employer in Shanghai? Very Sad to have read and viewed the news outside of China.

[@DualityIsAThing]

The last interview I saw with a SA media outlet, she was fine and in another country. Germany I think? I’m not sure. She has a KZbin channel.

[@wasabi4356]

Thank You for the reply. Are people able to view her KZbin video in China taken after the assault on her?@@DualityIsAThing

[@wasabi4356]

Please do not reply if it will jeapordize your current employment.

[@DualityIsAThing]

She’s not in China right now and neither am I, but lots of people in China have seen her video as it was posted on social media there as well. Maybe find her channel and ask her? ☺️

[@wasabi4356]

Noted. Most kind of you. Thank You@@DualityIsAThing

[@YouNeverKnowWhoIsWatching]

hello ma'am. can you explain what your coworkers meant by the ability to save money. if the pay is not all that great, what makes saving doable? is it because your expenses aren't that high? I'm thinking of going abroad to teach, but have a house/mortgage and adult kids that will probably occupy the house. I'm not depending on them to keep things up, so do you think its realsitic to make enough money teaching there to live and also send money home to keep up my house? Im thinking I'd have to sell my house but really don't want to.

[@DualityIsAThing]

If you make $4000 per month but your expenses are $600 per month…that’s a lot of savings. As a former homeowner, I would not advise selling your house, but I cannot confirm you’d be able to keep up the cost of maintaining it on a sole foreign salary. This is a tough decision. If I were you, speaking from hindsight, I’d try to stack at least 1 year of housing expenses in a US account before moving abroad. Adult kids are gonna have to help out at least a little, otherwise get a tenant. Good luck with your decision!

[@arieladams4546]

I worked at EF in 2018 and it was the pits. There was no helping the teachers, playing favorites, put in me the worst position to really develop my teaching skills and they even "forgot" to pay me for one month. Once my contract was up I was out of there. I would never go back to China but I'm going to Taiwan which I hear is it China but better. They are so welcoming to foreigners and really put emphasis on having quality education over making a profit, want to keep their teachers so the employee turnover rate is much lower.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Ughh so many EF horror stories, so few good ones lol. Glad you got out! Taiwan seems like a dream, I’ve considered going there several times but the salary cut kept stopping me. Now that salaries have decreased in mainland though, Taiwan might not be that much lower anymore!

[@xomiyoko2734]

Hey , I have a question I just wanted to know if you could answer it , when you get paid for your teaching in china are you paid in yen? Or is it usd and did you have to get a special bank acct ?

[@DualityIsAThing]

When you teach in China, you are a resident in China so you would be paid in Chinese currency. You’ll have a Chinese bank account and a Chinese everything else because, you live in China. There are various ways to send Chinese Reminbi to your US bank account and convert it to USD.

[@xomiyoko2734]

@@DualityIsAThing thank you for clearing that for me. I’m glad I came across your videos and your able to let me know what’s what . My bf wants to move to China. However I just been trying to know what’s what moving there .We are not typical 9-5 ppl more so entrepreneurs so we basically would have to teach if planning to move to there. I appreciate your videos so much they have been informative and authentic. Iknow you have moved back to the US now. But I thank you 🙏🏼.

[@DualityIsAThing]

You're welcome! You guys should look into university jobs. They are pretty easy and you'll have lots of free time for your businesses. Also, look into the requirements for student visas. You may be able to stay long-term by just taking a class or two. This is what I would have done if I had a larger source of income.

[@xomiyoko2734]

@@DualityIsAThing thank you ! Yea I’m gonna look into that. Bless your heart you are so helpful and I appreciate you again for responding and letting me know what’s what thank you ☺️

[@admirabletae4731]

Lol😂…that ending was a true Sag…lol😂 but all in all this video was very informative and sadly with the world changing and politics -politicking. Who knows where US and Chinas relationship may lead. I think china is a great place to travel and live( if this is what you want). But I do think it’s all about money and relations. In the end the children will lose and the parents will end up paying more and could conclude to over crowded schools. Similar, in the US their are public schools closing (no lie) which is creating over crowded public schools here in NYC( teacher in training) and that’s bc a lot of teachers started quitting due to pay and benefits. As the world was now introduced children to classes online(technology). I truly wonder if this is a good benefit to teachers and students. My opinion, is having the experience to learn and teach in a physical class can teach integrity and accountability, you can’t get that online. I liked what you and Paul discussed bc it does make sense and if this is the case teachers should opt for international schools. But….lol….I can truly understand what you and your friend Kevin spoke on. lol 😂 I had the same thoughts which in the past kept me from going to teach abroad myself in China. The fear, I suppose. Ohhh btw we spoke on this ( about my fear on it) thank you for pushing me to make a change Jessica,😊 I really do hope things change back or get better for foreign teachers in China. I would love to teach there one year!😊

[@DualityIsAThing]

LOL! Glad you liked the ending. Don't even get me started on the decline and overcrowding of public school systems in the US. Bachelor degrees in education have dropped by 50% since 1970. I've told friends and family who have them they'd be much better used abroad. At the same time, it's gut-wrenching watching American children get left so far behind the rest of the world. I totally agree with you; I don't think online learning should be introduced until at least after elementary school if at all. I hope you keep striving to be fearless! No place is perfect, and the good definitely outweighs the bad for me in China. 💚

[@BrussoCanada]

You make many good points. I work as a curriculum developer in CQ. Are you still there? It'd be great to exchange WeChats if you are.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Hey! My WeChat is JessLiving. Feel free to add me, I’d love to connect.

[@wadahole7379]

I thought training center got outlawed back in august 2021. How are they able to still operate ?

[@DualityIsAThing]

Nothing is ever really outlawed, there are always loopholes.

[@tinypanda]

As long as there's high demand, entrepreneurs will find a way to fill the void! Those already inside the country will get first dibs at new opportunities so keep your ears to the ground. Meanwhile, save as much as you can.💰 It's a good habit anyway.🥂❤️👍

[@DualityIsAThing]

Absolutely! Thanks for watching!

[@staywithola9724]

Your so cute with a beautiful smile.😊

[@DualityIsAThing]

You are so kind, thank you 😊

[@nkululekomabaso1629]

Yes, I paid for my flight, medical check and 3+1 month(s) of rent in Shanghai. To say the least, that needed a lot of money that I didn't even have; in fact, I basically borrowed money to get here. There is no bonus, no flight allowance, and no compensation. 😏

[@DualityIsAThing]

Yikes! Yeah I won’t be coming back to China unless that changes. Except the rent, that’s normal. Happy you’ve made it though!

[@pearly_kamaxaba]

Glad you safely landed, it’s been 6 months. How has your experience been? Do you mind sharing your recruiter or website that assisted you to score a job?

[@mymalesecret]

I did EF in Chongqing, highly don’t recommend it. Locations are not consistent in terms of management and pay/benefits are the worst amongst training centers. Getting a “good” location is like rolling a 20-sided dice hoping to only land on a single result. Skip while you can with EF.

[@DualityIsAThing]

💯 😂😂😂😂

[@LostBunga]

haha i did a stint at i2 in guangzhou. I think the dude who was runnig it was named Peng. Chubby guy and I believe his bro was the main boss

[@DualityIsAThing]

Nice! I spent a week at one of the campuses in GZ back in 2020. Peng left a long time ago, HQ is in Chengdu now.

[@sucevicpredrag3915]

​@@DualityIsAThinghello i would like to ask you something. I have offer (reputable agency in my country and china). Changchun second tier city Overtime is paid 10000 rmb Rent covered by company. Is this good? For first time i am Non native but i go for experience

[@laurenspry4654]

My dream would be to teach in Chongqing. Upon looking at training center salaries and job postings online... I'm disappointed to see most are offering 19k-20k RMB/month. Are there any websites that are best for job postings? In your videos, they say if youre below 35k its too low. I am almost finished my bachelors and I already have a 3yr associates. I did my TEFL in Thailand with experience by working for a few weeks in rural elementary schools. I also working at an after school center in Taiwan for a few weeks, and have lots more childcare experience. Do you think I could negotiate a higher salary? Do they let you negotiate? (Culture difference idk?) Or are training centers just not paying 35k+ anymore?

[@alicemargaret8092]

The salary you said has already been a really decent one for chongqing, the average salary for locals is under 10k. Chinese teachers definitely won’t get the same price though they teach the same knowledge as people with exotic faces(this is the foreigner’s privilege). The thing is, it doesn’t matter how many experiences you have, but the value you can provide to the company. So if you want higher salaries and maintain your life quality, then you probably need to work in Beijing or Shanghai, and the competition is fierce at the same time.

[@DualityIsAThing]

35K is not going to happen in Chongqing at a training center on a 1st year contract. Even if you had a Master’s degree in education. Cost of living is lower in CQ than other cities so salaries are lower. Chinese staff salaries are irrelevant, I don’t know why people compare the 2. Life is more expensive for us and we are literally deemed foreign experts, we should be paid accordingly. If you’re looking for 30k+ in CQ you’ll have more success with an international school and possibly a public school. Yes! Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate! Chinese love to negotiate. Most new teachers just take what’s offered without countering. That’s an opportunity to show them your skills and let them know just how much experience you bring so they can pad that salary package nicely!

[@JalomMatia]

@@DualityIsAThing yes, try to negotiate on several items for sure. they usually will meet you halfway, but depends on how interested they are in you. but keep in mind, that some schools can't negotiate, they get their contract approved by local CCP, and they won't take the time to try to modify it other than the salary. so it depends on the school.

[@CasaFassa]

I love when no one will go in the elevator with me. My personal elevator with no stops but my own!

[@DualityIsAThing]

The best! It's also really fun when they are inside holding the close doors button and you're outside holding the doors open button 🤣🤣🤣

[@earlvincenttorres453]

How is the health insurance there for working Americans?

[@DualityIsAThing]

Healthcare is super affordable in China for everyone.

[@telescopicS627]

This is all from 2022. What's the situation since the pandemic? I see pay is quite high, cram schools starting at 20k a month, that's good right? Are masks and vaccines mandated? Can you use cash anymore?

[@DualityIsAThing]

It’s not all from 2022. Did you watch the end of the video? 20K is low for a native speaker with years of experience. Vaccines were never mandated. People wear masks when they want, don’t wear them when they don’t. Cash is gross…why would anyone want to use it? 😂

[@maneil9297]

🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@DesignEnthusiast83]

May I ask how much is the tuition for a 5-6 year old kid in Shenzhen?

[@DualityIsAThing]

I've only visited Shenzhen, I didn't live or work there so I don't know.

[@DesignEnthusiast83]

@@DualityIsAThing You're earning a decent salary living in a country with one of the lowest inflation of developed nations! And a vacation once a month?! You're the envy of many people! Plus after the covid restrictions, you're now allowed to travel to many places.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Definitely built a wonderful life for myself, and I'm grateful. Envious ones should remember nothing is perfect.💚

[@Titdimon1996]

I guess I had too high expectations for this video, like analytics of recent low birthrates affecting enrollment to educational institutions, private educational entities getting naitionalised etc. Anyway, still partially informative, at least if one focuses on the video content as "brief introduction to the types of English teaching jobs in China and my experience" rather than "is it still worthy to teach English in China in 2024". I hope that maybe in the future you or someone else will go into a deep analysis, because the things in China are not just about the double reduction policy and competitions among foreigners after the full reopening of borders

[@DualityIsAThing]

Sounds like you should make that video!

[@Titdimon1996]

@@DualityIsAThing then there is no point for me in seeking for any videos hoping that some detailed info will pop up, if I am the one who actually gathered that info and presented it. However, I don't exclude the possibility that I may do it in the future. It just takes time and efforts

[@DualityIsAThing]

😂 I hope you find what you’re looking for.

[@thesoulfulexpat]

Girl, I had no idea training centers had that amazing salary. wow

[@DualityIsAThing]

So sad those days are gone!

[@AlexPeterson-on3xo]

7000 dollars per month for natives? It's almost 50k RMB. I never saw offers with that range of salary for natives. The max salary I noticed was UP to 35k. Where did you find these schools? Everything changed after COVID. There're also a lot of non-natives and people from South Africa who are considered natives there. The competition is fierce at the moment.

[@DualityIsAThing]

It will remain fierce now that people realize China is paradise in many ways lol

[@honeykamal9743]

what are the fees likes for kids?

[@DualityIsAThing]

I don’t know what they are like with the new laws but previously the range was high. They were private businesses, not schools so, yanno.

[@phlezktravels]

The best times were before covid. It's so different now.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Facts. I’m glad I was able to experience the best of times before the worst lol

[@PKP1]

What's driving this phobia or newly shifted perspective on foreigners?

[@DualityIsAThing]

COVID

[@CLAY_09]

hey dear i just wanna ask, is it worth to teach to Kindergarten... are their salary are good or more then good?

[@DualityIsAThing]

It depends on many things. I personally don’t like kindergarten hours, you start early have a long break in the middle and end late. Salary depends on the city and your definition of good. Larger cities pay more because the cost of living is higher.

[@CLAY_09]

@@DualityIsAThing would you like to tell me the timing schedule of classes?

[@DualityIsAThing]

I never worked in a kindergarten so I don’t know exactly but I think it’s usually 8am-5pm

[@CLAY_09]

@@DualityIsAThing 9 hours too much long😂

[@embracingchina1744]

I am still teaching in China, but leaving soon. I feel your pain. I teach English maths to years 11 and 12 Chinese students and they understand at most 5% of what I am saying. It is painful! I am happy you are honest about China and don't shill about it. Btw, I teach at a "bilingual" school, which I thought was international, but is FAR from this.

[@DualityIsAThing]

So many "bilingual' schools are really just 5% English speaking LOL! Thanks for leaving this comment! I made a playlist of teaching in China videos for this exact reason. I know a lot more than I said about different types of schools, but it's better to hear from people who actually work at them.

[@luminouslink777]

Are there any non-natives working at the training center?

[@DualityIsAThing]

The answer to this is in the video ☺️

[@stephaniebarnes9792]

Yes

[@QChen-sb3np]

22:50 that xenophobia fear i think is something unfortunately that can probably never go away. Hete they made a song telling ppl to stay away from chinese ppl kzbin.info/www/bejne/e6qQY5mnmLWFpbs The lyrics are in its description.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Sickening…I don’t even want to click on that 🫠 Lack of education is the root of xenophobia. I just remind myself that many people all over the world are dumb, and it’s not their fault. 😂

[@unreliablenarrator6649]

LOL, Chongqing "Four Hots": Hot weather, hot food, hot arguments, hot ladies.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Lol facts

[@jeanclairenepomuceno8797]

What do you think of private home tutoring with 1 day off? Worth it?

[@DualityIsAThing]

For me, no. 1 day off is always a no…how can you travel with 1 day off? ☺️ Also private home tutoring is illegal for foreigners so there’s that. I’ve always gotten offers to do it but always scared because a neighbor could report you and then boom, you’re deported.

[@jeanclairenepomuceno8797]

@@DualityIsAThing thanks!

[@dugang139]

Is this a video taken during the coronavirus pandemic?

[@DualityIsAThing]

Yes. In 2022 and 2023.

[@ParisHilton44]

Where did you take ur tefl course

[@DualityIsAThing]

Here: bit.ly/2Rbmb7K

[@Scarrrz]

The problem is, I don't have a 4 year degree as I think it's worthless to be a teacher, as I don't think a higher level of education in something like, "culinary arts" transpires to being able to teach in an international school in China just because you need that degree for the, "Type Z" visa. I do however have my TEFL certification, and back in the day in China you were able to just get a flight there and teach off that. The amount of demand to, "qualified" teachers in China is massively disproportiante. It's what has discouraged me from going to China on top of the strict laws that govern the teaching world, or working visa world for that matter...

[@DualityIsAThing]

I know a few under-qualified individuals that somehow have degrees. I know people without degrees who run multi-million dollar companies, so I understand what you mean. The system is rigged and you have to figure out how to make it work for you. Being a teacher is never worthless though. There are a few countries you can teach in with just a TEFL.

[@zhanan9091]

确实如此

[@zhaoyun3153]

Regarding the future of teaching in China, the government shutting down a lot of the private sector jobs isn't necessarily a bad thing. I think that its a good thing if the government eliminates or at least regulates "for-profit" companies. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the government trying to level the playing field for children from poorer families that make less income than their counterparts that were born into richer families. I'm not entirely sure that the Chinese government wants the entire world to learn mandarin or cantonese. I think that it is a good thing that the Chinese government is focusing more on teaching their youth mandarin and cantonese primarily over English. It may be the case that the reason why China wants foreigners to leave is because of the growing geopolitical hostilities between China and the West. Will kids be allowed out of China? Will they be allowed to study abroad? Of course they will. Why wouldn't they? What I don't understand is if you're going to teach Chinese children how to speak English, then don't the expats that teach them need to know mandarin or cantonese in order to translate and communicate with the kids? Are there English speaking translators inside of the classrooms with the expat teachers that translate the their words from English to the native language(s)? "The good guy always wins in the end, and no anti-tyranny messages in the movies." Isn't that a direct contradiction of logic? The good guy always wins, but they're promoting a tyrannical message to the public? That doesn't make any sense. Doesn't the government provide additional resources to children who are having issues with their studies like after-school tutoring or extracurricular courses?

[@DualityIsAThing]

I’m not sure when you were last in China but lots of Chinese nationals have not been allowed to leave the country for years. HUNDREDS. Even though they had valid visas and passports. They’ll never say that publicly though. It’s frowned upon for foreign teachers to speak Chinese in an English class, so no, it is not required or encouraged to learn mandarin. Many of us do learn the language because we want to as it obviously improves our quality of life. There aren’t “translators” in class because that’s not how you learn a foreign language. There are sometimes teaching assistants for very young or new learners. I agree changing the for-profit system isn’t a bad thing, but I don’t think it’s a good thing either. It’s very nuanced, it’s not that simple. No, the government does not subsidize private extracurricular lessons for children.

[@zhaoyun3153]

@@DualityIsAThing I've never been to China, but I've never heard Chinese people complain about not being able to leave their own country, so maybe your experience on the matter is anecdotal? Hundreds of people have been stopped from leaving in a country with over a billion nationals? Maybe those hundreds of people had legal problems or other types of problems that you weren't aware of? I think the main reason why there was a travel restriction had to do with the covid pandemic. Seeing as how China was the epicenter of the pandemic, the government wanted to minimize the spreading of the virus globally, so they implemented measures that they thought were effective at containing the virus. It makes sense if you're a government responsible for over a billion lives because a highly infectious and contagious virus would saturate a population of that size in relatively little time. Regarding the language barrier, it doesn't make sense for a teacher to only speak English in a class with children that only speak or understand Mandarin or Cantonese. Who or what is translating the information to the kids for them to understand? How are they able to understand the lessons if you're not expected to speak their language? Would you expect a Chinese teacher to only speak Mandarin or Cantonese in a Chinese language class in an American school? I don't think so. When I was learning Spanish and French in high school, the teacher had to translate the information into English so that we could understand. They didn't only speak Spanish of French. If they did, then we wouldn't know what they were saying. Regarding the government ending the for-profit companies, why is that a bad thing? I agree that the government wouldn't subsidize private lessons, but it would be expected to invest funding in public programs for children that would help struggling children with their studies.

[@zhaoyun3153]

@@yongzhu8454 Thanks.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Most people don't know much about how China works. Hope you get to live there long-term one day to build the type of relationships that help you learn deeply about the culture as I have. If that's something you're interested in.

[@DualityIsAThing]

As I said...no one would ever say they were prevented from leaving PUBLICLY as they'd obviously face repercussions. They definitely have.

[@jessieliu1731]

This concern about China dont want people to learn English is false. I can see that the concern comes from the shut down of a lot of tutoring centres. The shut down or those was because the government thinks it’s an unfair advantage for the kids that can go to these tutoring centres, so they shut them down. It’s regardless of what subject your are teaching. Some of them were affected but are not really tutoring school subjects, which wasn’t what the rule was about. Chinese rules are always like the government comes up with a rule, then on the enforcement they take it more strictly than it is out of worry. I think a lot of these training centres for kinder age kids if they are shut down, it’s this exaggerated enforcement of that rule

[@DualityIsAThing]

Thanks for your incorrect opinion!

[@tweedy4sg]

@@DualityIsAThing As the comment is quite long, which part is incorrect ?

[@CasaFassa]

The kindegartens try to be as intense as the international schools so far was workload and activities are concerned. Oh excuse me "International Kindergarten" lol.

[@DualityIsAThing]

But worse because the parents are more involved in KD's 😬

[@CheesecakeOnTheMoon]

💯 % 😂😂😂

[@CasaFassa]

I just came back to China beginning of the year....and I'm truly done here. Just done with all of it, not least of which is the shit weather, which all of China suffers. I'm really just done with Asia, too.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Relatable feelings lol...thanks for reminding me about the weather lol

[@krissysherrell6625]

I love and miss ZJJ.

[@GPDC100]

Why they dont stay at where they are from. If its so GOOD?

[@DualityIsAThing]

We live in a huge beautiful world, why would anyone stay where they are from their whole lives?

[@RedlineTransport-xx3jn]

My wife and I just accepted job offers in China with EF we are living in 5 months… I know you guys think teaching is dead but they are still bringing a lot of people out there 😮

[@Henry-teach-Chinese-in-jokes]

I’ve made a video about the comparison between Chinese and English and many videos teaching Chinese in graphic and funny ways. Discussions, criticisms, and corrections are welcome.

[@DualityIsAThing]

@RedlineTransport-xx3jn It's not dead, but the glorious days of yesteryear are gone. The packages offered are not what they used to be for people who are not already in China, but still a good option for some. Congratulations to you and your wife!

[@user-id4zf8en8y]

不可否认的是，也存在太多良莠不齐的英语教师了，只为了高薪酬而缺乏相应的教育能力和同理心，导致学校和家长很不满意。

[@DualityIsAThing]

Yes, that is the difficult task of the hiring managers. Determining quality candidates. Unfortunately many managers still pay higher rates to teachers based on the way they look rather than their qualifications and experience.

[@GPDC100]

Stay in school or going round US is at high risk been shoot...think you should be back

[@DualityIsAThing]

I think you should visit the US so you can experience not being shot. 😂

[@CasaFassa]

The English centers are better than kindergartens. Kindergartens are HELL!

[@DualityIsAThing]

I completely agree!

[@calmingbabysleep1256]

Why do you say so? :)

[@robharris5467]

No discussion of teaching in China now should avoid the effect of the abandonment of the one child policy. This is officially called 'Easing the Burden'. In effect it means that schools and tertiary institutions are required to provide the English education, parents would previously buy from private schools - usually during the summer break and weekends.

[@DualityIsAThing]

Did you watch the video? China encourages people to have THREE children. The one child policy ended officially in 2016. The law you incorrectly named is called double reduction not “easing of the burden” and we literally mentioned this several times. 🙄

[@robharris5467]

Looking back, I see that 'Easing the Burden' is the title used by my former employer. This was a tier one uni in NE PRC. Given my boss is a Party Secretary, there was clearly a political aspect used to avoid the obvious conclusion that the 1 child policy was a disaster. Paints the CCP in a benign light as a social problem solver. I'm not sure that 3 kids is mandated just that no restrictions now apply. Good to note also that non-Han (Manchu, Uighur etc) were never subject to the one-child policy. One Manchu student I taught had 2 sisters! Two Chinese couples I know who ran thriving language schools were basically ruined by new policy. As far as the practicality of couples electing to have additional children, it's as well to note that the one child regime was in place during a period of rapid urbanisation during which couples bought a standard two-bedroom apartment. An additional child over an existing one would create pressure on space and given that a grandparent is usually co-opted into child care there are obvious issues. I tried to interest my school-owning friends in repackaging their Saturday English offerings as large format 'English Choir', neither was game. 'Don't want to go there again' was one response. Hope this clarifies where my Easing the Burden usage came from> Best. @@DualityIsAThing

[@nigelwright7979]

flood out? or flown. And you teach English🙄

[@DualityIsAThing]

Lol…yes, I teach English, and you were just educated in AAVE. It’s “flewed” not “flood”. A flood is an overflowing of a large amount of water. ‘FLEWED’ is African American Vernacular ENGLISH for the word flown. Congratulations on missing the words on the screen that said that, as well as missing the sarcasm in my voice when I emphasized it. 🤣 This is not English class; you’ve found the wrong channel if that’s what you were looking for. Thanks for watching!

[@nigelwright7979]

I spelled it how I thought you said it. I have never heard of let alone studied at AAVE. Here in the UK people would look at you strangely and assume you didn't finish secondary education if you said flewed.@@DualityIsAThing

[@DualityIsAThing]

Isn’t it amazing that I know that although I’m not from the UK? 🙃 Welcome to the internet, where you can learn about many things outside of your UK bubble. Visit google dot com for more information. You’re welcome!

[@nerdinside21]

Americans Always complaining

[@DualityIsAThing]

Strange takeaway. Especially since half the people in this video aren’t American lol

[@sweetsavage6759]

Glad i stumbled upon your video. I'm glad. I am still A teen heading into University. And i plan to Study English education because i wish to he an English teachers( Will even get my masters and license) in the future and i figured going to china was my go get. Why? Because I basically love China, Chinese dramas etc. Im even Studying Chinese language and before long, I might be a good at it lol. But I have a big problem. I'm from Nigeria which is basically not considered as one of the English speaking countries..Even though my English accent is pretty similar ro yours🥹. So im stranded Made some research which says you'd have to go and Study at an English speaking Country first? I don't know... but i will make this dream of mine true. Because Basically I love China and willing to teach at that University 😂😂

[@DualityIsAThing]

There are lots of Nigerians loving life in China. There’s no doubt you’ll be able to achieve this goal of yours! Keep up the great work. ☺️