The allure of teaching abroad has always been a captivating prospect for many educators. The opportunity to immerse oneself in a new culture, learn a different language and broaden one’s horizons is indeed enticing. But, what if we told you that there’s more to it than just the adventure and cultural exchange? What if we told you that you could significantly boost your teaching career and earn a handsome salary while doing so? Especially in a country like China, which is rapidly becoming a hotspot for international teachers.
China, with its booming economy and increasing global influence, is investing heavily in education. This has resulted in a surge in demand for qualified international teachers, particularly those with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). If you’re a PGCE holder considering teaching abroad, China could be the perfect destination for you. But before you pack your bags, let’s delve into the top 5 surprising PGCE international teacher salaries in China.
1. International Schools
International schools in China are renowned for their high standards of education and competitive salary packages. These schools follow an international curriculum, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the British A-Levels, making them an ideal fit for PGCE holders.
As a PGCE qualified teacher in an international school, you can expect to earn between £2,000 to £3,500 per month. This salary is often tax-free and comes with additional benefits such as housing allowance, medical insurance, and annual return flights to your home country.
2. Private Language Institutes
Private language institutes in China cater to a wide range of students, from young learners to adults seeking to improve their English proficiency. As a PGCE holder, you bring a level of expertise and credibility that these institutes highly value.
Salaries at private language institutes vary depending on the location and the institute’s reputation. However, on average, you can expect to earn between £1,500 to £2,500 per month. Additional benefits such as housing allowance and insurance are also commonly provided.
3. Public Schools
Public schools in China are increasingly seeking to internationalise their curriculum and teaching methods. This has led to a growing demand for PGCE qualified teachers.
While the salaries at public schools may not be as high as those at international schools or private language institutes, they are still competitive. On average, a PGCE holder can expect to earn between £1,200 to £2,000 per month. The lower cost of living in many Chinese cities can make this salary go a long way.
4. Universities
Universities in China are another excellent option for PGCE holders. With a focus on academic English, these institutions offer a different teaching environment compared to schools and language institutes.
Salaries at universities can range from £1,500 to £2,500 per month. While this may not be as high as some other options, universities often offer a lighter teaching load, giving you more time to explore China and immerse yourself in the culture.
5. Online Teaching Platforms
With the advent of technology, online teaching has become a viable and increasingly popular option. Chinese online teaching platforms are constantly on the lookout for qualified teachers to deliver English lessons to their vast student base.
As an online teacher, you have the flexibility to work from anywhere, and you can often set your own hours. The pay varies greatly depending on the platform and the number of hours you work, but on average, you can expect to earn between £1,000 to £2,000 per month.
Final Thoughts
Teaching in China as a PGCE holder not only offers an enriching cultural experience but also a chance to earn a competitive salary. Whether you choose to work in an international school, a private language institute, a public school, a university, or an online platform, China offers a wealth of opportunities for international teachers.
So, if you’re a PGCE holder looking to boost your teaching career, why not consider China? With its high demand for qualified teachers and attractive salary packages, it could be the perfect next step in your teaching journey.
Elevate Your International Teaching Career with The IQTS at UWE
Ready to take your teaching career in China to the next level? The International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) Programme at UWE is your gateway to overcoming the barriers of strict qualification requirements and advancing your professional development. With the iQTS, you’re not just enhancing your credentials; you’re increasing your chances of interview callbacks by 50%, boosting your promotion rates by 45%, and potentially raising your salary by 30%. Join a global community of educators, gain a deeper understanding of international curricula, and enjoy the flexibility of online study tailored for working teachers. Don’t let isolation or underqualification hold you back. Make Your Next Step with the iQTS programme and transform your teaching journey in China.