Teaching abroad can be a life-changing experience, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a new culture, learn a new language, and make a difference in the lives of students. One of the most popular destinations for teaching abroad is China, and for good reason. With an International Qualification in Teaching Skills (IQTS), teaching in China can be an enriching and rewarding experience. Here are 10 reasons why you should consider teaching abroad with an IQTS in China.
1. High Demand for English Teachers
China has a high demand for English teachers, making it an ideal destination for those looking to teach abroad. With the country’s rapid economic growth and increasing global influence, the demand for English language skills has skyrocketed. This means that there are plenty of opportunities for teachers with an IQTS to find rewarding teaching positions.
Not only are there numerous job opportunities, but the demand also means that teachers can often negotiate favourable contracts, including competitive salaries and benefits such as housing allowances and flight reimbursements. This high demand is akin to the boom in tech jobs in Silicon Valley, with the need for English teachers in China showing no signs of slowing down.
2. Cultural Exchange
Teaching in China offers an unparalleled opportunity for cultural exchange. As a teacher, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in Chinese culture, learn about its rich history and traditions, and gain a deeper understanding of its people. This is a unique experience that you wouldn’t get from a typical holiday visit.
Moreover, as an English teacher, you’ll also have the opportunity to share your own culture with your students. This two-way cultural exchange can lead to meaningful connections and mutual understanding, much like the exchange of ideas in a lively debate.
3. Learn Mandarin
Living and working in China provides an excellent opportunity to learn Mandarin, one of the world’s most spoken languages. Just like immersing yourself in water is the best way to learn how to swim, immersing yourself in a Mandarin-speaking environment is the best way to learn the language.
Having Mandarin language skills can open up a world of opportunities, both professionally and personally. It can enhance your CV, open doors to new career opportunities, and allow you to communicate with a billion more people around the world.
4. Affordable Cost of Living
Despite its rapid economic growth, the cost of living in many parts of China remains relatively low compared to Western countries. This means that your salary as an English teacher can go a lot further, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while also saving money. It’s like getting a high-quality product at a bargain price.
From affordable housing and food to inexpensive public transportation, the low cost of living can make your teaching experience in China even more rewarding.
5. Travel Opportunities
China’s vast size and diverse landscapes offer endless travel opportunities. From the bustling metropolises of Beijing and Shanghai to the breathtaking natural beauty of Zhangjiajie and Jiuzhaigou, there’s always something new to explore. It’s like having a treasure trove of travel destinations right at your doorstep.
Moreover, China’s central location in Asia makes it a great base for exploring other countries in the region. Whether you want to visit the cherry blossoms in Japan, the beaches in Thailand, or the temples in Cambodia, they’re all just a short flight away.
6. Professional Development
Teaching in China with an IQTS can be a great boost for your professional development. The experience of teaching in a different cultural and educational context can enhance your teaching skills, increase your adaptability, and make you a more effective educator. It’s like adding a new tool to your professional toolbox.
Furthermore, many schools in China offer professional development opportunities, such as workshops and conferences, allowing you to continually improve your teaching skills and stay up-to-date with the latest educational trends.
7. Make a Difference
As an English teacher in China, you have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of your students. By providing them with valuable language skills, you can help them access better educational and career opportunities in the future. It’s like planting a seed that will grow into a tree, providing shade and fruit for years to come.
Moreover, by sharing your own culture and perspectives, you can help broaden your students’ horizons and foster mutual understanding between cultures.
8. Experience a Different Education System
Teaching in China allows you to experience a different education system, which can provide valuable insights and broaden your perspective as an educator. The Chinese education system places a strong emphasis on discipline and hard work, which can be a stark contrast to the more relaxed approach in some Western countries. It’s like comparing a strict boot camp with a laid-back summer camp, each with its own merits and challenges.
Understanding these differences can help you become a more adaptable and effective teacher, able to navigate and thrive in diverse educational environments.
9. Build International Connections
Working in China can help you build a network of international connections, both professionally and personally. These connections can open up new opportunities, provide valuable support and enrich your life in countless ways. It’s like weaving a global web of contacts, each thread representing a potential opportunity or friendship.
Whether it’s fellow teachers, students, or locals you meet during your time in China, these relationships can last a lifetime and become one of the most rewarding aspects of your teaching experience.
10. Personal Growth
Last but not least, teaching in China can lead to significant personal growth. Living and working in a foreign country can be challenging, but it’s through these challenges that we often learn the most about ourselves. It’s like embarking on a journey of self-discovery, with each challenge serving as a stepping stone towards greater self-understanding and resilience.
From learning to navigate cultural differences to becoming more independent and adaptable, the personal growth you can experience while teaching in China is invaluable.
In conclusion, teaching abroad with an IQTS in China offers a wealth of benefits, from professional development and personal growth to cultural exchange and travel opportunities. So why not take the plunge and embark on an unforgettable teaching adventure in China?
Take the Next Step with The IQTS at UWE
Ready to transform your teaching career and embrace the adventure of teaching in China? The IQTS at UWE is your gateway to achieving International Qualified Teacher Status, propelling your professional development and opening doors to international schools. With our iQTS programme, you’ll overcome the barriers of strict qualification requirements, enjoy a 45% increase in promotion rates, and connect with a global community of educators. Don’t let the opportunity for a 30% salary boost and a deeper understanding of global education systems pass you by. Embrace the flexibility of online study and make your next step towards an enriching teaching experience in China. Make Your Next Step and join the iQTS programme today.