If you’re a qualified teacher with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), you might be considering taking your skills abroad. And why not? It’s a fantastic way to experience a new culture, broaden your horizons, and earn a pretty penny while you’re at it. One destination that’s increasingly popular among PGCE holders is China, and Beijing in particular. With its vibrant culture, rich history, and booming economy, it’s no wonder that the Chinese capital is attracting educators from all over the globe.
Why Choose Beijing for Your Teaching Career?
Beijing is not just the political and cultural heart of China, but also a hub for international business and education. This bustling metropolis offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern development, making it a fascinating place to live and work.
Moreover, Beijing is home to some of the world’s top international schools, offering competitive salaries and benefits packages to attract the best teaching talent. These schools follow international curriculums, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), American, and British systems, providing a familiar teaching environment for foreign educators.
The Cost of Living in Beijing
While Beijing is a major city with all the amenities you could wish for, it’s worth noting that the cost of living can be higher than in other parts of China. However, the salaries for PGCE teachers in Beijing often reflect this, and many schools offer housing allowances or accommodation as part of their benefits packages.
Furthermore, despite the higher living costs, you’ll find that your money goes a lot further in Beijing than in many Western cities. From dining out to public transport, many everyday expenses are significantly cheaper, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while saving a good chunk of your salary.
The Highest Paying PGCE Teaching Jobs in Beijing
So, you’re sold on the idea of teaching in Beijing, but what kind of salaries can you expect? Let’s take a look at some of the top-paying PGCE teaching jobs in the city.
It’s important to note that salaries can vary greatly depending on the school, your experience and qualifications, and the subject you teach. However, as a general rule, international schools tend to offer the highest salaries.
International Schools
As mentioned earlier, international schools in Beijing are among the top employers for foreign teachers. These schools often offer salaries ranging from 20,000 to 40,000 RMB per month, depending on your experience and qualifications. In addition to this, many schools offer benefits such as housing allowances, health insurance, and flight reimbursement.
Furthermore, teaching at an international school often means smaller class sizes and more resources at your disposal, allowing you to deliver high-quality education and develop your teaching skills further.
Private Language Schools
Private language schools are another popular option for PGCE teachers in Beijing. While the salaries at these schools are typically lower than at international schools, they can still be quite attractive. Expect to earn between 15,000 and 25,000 RMB per month, plus benefits.
Teaching at a private language school often involves working with smaller groups or one-on-one, focusing on improving students’ English language skills. This can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to make a significant impact on your students’ learning.
How to Land a High-Paying PGCE Teaching Job in Beijing
Now that you have an idea of the potential salaries on offer, let’s explore how you can secure one of these high-paying teaching jobs in Beijing.
Get Your Documents in Order
First and foremost, you’ll need to ensure that all your documents are in order. This includes your PGCE certificate, degree certificate, and a clean criminal background check. You’ll also need a valid passport, and you may need to have some or all of your documents notarised and legalised, depending on the requirements of the Chinese authorities and your prospective employer.
Start Your Job Search Early
The hiring process for teaching jobs in China can take several months, so it’s a good idea to start your job search early. Many schools start recruiting for the new academic year in January or February, so aim to start applying around this time to maximise your chances of securing a high-paying job.
Consider Using a Recruitment Agency
Finally, consider using a recruitment agency that specialises in international teaching jobs. They can help you navigate the job market, prepare for interviews, and negotiate the best salary and benefits package. Plus, their services are usually free for job seekers, as they’re paid by the schools.
Conclusion
Teaching in Beijing can be a rewarding and lucrative career move for PGCE holders. With competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and the chance to experience life in one of the world’s most dynamic cities, it’s an opportunity not to be missed.
So, why not start planning your Beijing teaching adventure today? With the right preparation and a bit of determination, you could soon be earning big bucks in Beijing!
Elevate Your Teaching Career with The IQTS at UWE
Ready to take your teaching career to the next level in Beijing? The International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) Programme at The IQTS at UWE is your gateway to overcoming the common barriers educators face abroad. With our programme, you’ll not only meet the stringent qualification requirements of international schools but also enhance your chances for career progression, increase your salary potential, and connect with a global community of professionals. Don’t let the opportunity to become more adaptable to international curricula and to balance professional development with your teaching commitments pass you by. Make Your Next Step with the iQTS programme and secure your future in the international teaching landscape.