Teaching Jobs in China for Qualified Teachers

Teaching Jobs in China

China has become one of the most popular destinations for qualified teachers looking to work abroad. With a rapidly expanding international school sector and strong demand for experienced educators, there are excellent opportunities for teachers with UK qualifications such as PGCE and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

International schools across China recruit teachers to deliver the British National Curriculum, International Baccalaureate and other international programmes. These schools offer modern facilities, strong professional development opportunities and attractive relocation packages for overseas teachers.

Teaching jobs in China are particularly appealing for teachers who want to gain international experience while enjoying competitive salaries, generous benefits and the opportunity to live in one of the world’s most dynamic countries.

Teaching in China: Helpful Guides for Teachers

If you are considering working in China, the following guides provide useful information about requirements, salaries and what to expect when relocating.

Requirements to Teach in China
– Learn about the qualifications, visa requirements and experience needed to work in Chinese international schools.
Teaching Salary in China Guide
– A detailed overview of salaries, benefits and what teachers can expect to earn.
Teaching in China: Pros and Cons
– A balanced look at the advantages and challenges of living and working in China.

These guides can help you better understand what it is like to live and work in China before applying for teaching positions.

Salary and Benefits for Teachers in China

Teaching in China often comes with an excellent employment package. International schools typically offer competitive salaries along with a range of benefits designed to support teachers relocating from overseas.

A typical contract may include:

• Competitive salary
• Complimentary furnished accommodation or housing allowance
• Private healthcare for you and your family
• Free or subsidised schooling for dependent children
• Annual return flights between the UK and China
• Relocation and settling-in support

The salary a teacher can earn in China depends on the school, location and level of experience. Teachers working in established international schools or major cities can earn over £40,000 per year, while typical salaries range between £20,000 and £35,000 annually.

Income tax is payable in China, and salaries are usually quoted before tax. However, many international schools offer generous benefits such as housing allowances, flights and health insurance, which significantly increase the overall value of the employment package.

Because accommodation is often included or subsidised, many teachers are able to save a significant proportion of their income while working abroad. Some teachers also choose to rent out their UK property while overseas, providing additional income during their time abroad.

Types of Teaching Jobs in China

There are several types of schools in China that recruit international teachers.

British International Schools

British international schools are among the most popular employers for UK teachers moving to China. These schools follow the British National Curriculum, with students progressing through Key Stages before studying for IGCSEs, A-Levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

Many students attending these schools are children of expatriate families, although increasing numbers of local Chinese students also enrol in international schools to gain access to global university pathways.

British international schools typically offer excellent facilities, smaller class sizes and familiar teaching frameworks for teachers trained in the UK system.

International Baccalaureate and International Curriculum Schools

Many international schools in China offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) or other international curricula. These schools attract students from a wide range of nationalities and provide a highly international teaching environment.

Teachers working in these schools often benefit from collaborative teaching teams, strong professional development opportunities and modern campus facilities.

Bilingual International Schools

In recent years, bilingual international schools have expanded rapidly across China. These schools combine elements of the Chinese national curriculum with international programmes such as the British curriculum or the International Baccalaureate.

Bilingual schools frequently recruit international teachers to deliver subjects such as mathematics, science, English, humanities and primary education, helping students develop both strong academic skills and global perspectives.

Qualifications Needed for Teaching Jobs in China

Most international schools in China expect teachers to hold the same professional qualifications required in the UK.

Typical requirements include:

• A relevant undergraduate degree
• PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education)
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
• Two to three years of successful teaching experience in an English-speaking school

Teachers with experience delivering the British curriculum, IGCSE or A-Level programmes are particularly sought after.

For leadership roles such as vice-principal or principal, schools may require additional qualifications such as leadership training (for example NPQH) or postgraduate degrees such as a Master’s in Education (M.Ed.).

Subjects in Demand in Chinese International Schools

International schools across China regularly recruit teachers for a wide range of subjects. Areas frequently in demand include:

• Primary education
• Mathematics
• Science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics)
• English
• Humanities
• Computer science
• Business studies
• Early years education

Schools also recruit for leadership positions including heads of department, deputy heads and principals.

Visa Requirements for Teaching in China

To work legally in China, teachers must obtain a Z visa, which is the official working visa for foreign employees.

Most schools assist successful candidates with the visa application process once a job offer has been accepted. This usually involves submitting proof of qualifications, a health check and a clean criminal record.

The UK Government advises teachers to review employment contracts carefully before signing and ensure they fully understand the terms of their employment.

Living and Working in China

China is a country of remarkable contrasts, combining ancient history with rapid modern development. Major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Guangzhou are global centres of commerce and innovation, offering modern infrastructure, vibrant cultural scenes and excellent transport networks.

At the same time, China’s long and fascinating history is visible throughout the country. With a civilisation spanning thousands of years, the country offers a wealth of cultural experiences, historic sites and traditions.

Teachers living in China often take the opportunity to explore famous landmarks such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City and the Terracotta Army, while also enjoying regional cuisines, festivals and cultural events.

China is also home to many historic innovations including paper, printing, silk production and porcelain. Its rich artistic heritage, renowned cuisine and rapidly developing economy make it one of the most exciting places in the world to live and work.

Teaching Contracts in China

Most international teaching contracts in China last two years, although some schools offer shorter or renewable contracts.

During this time, teachers can gain valuable international experience, develop their careers and explore a country that offers an extraordinary range of cultural and travel experiences.

Find Teaching Jobs in China

If you are a qualified teacher looking to develop your career internationally, China offers excellent opportunities in modern, well-resourced schools.

Browse our latest teaching jobs in China and take the next step in your international teaching career.

Top Cities for Teaching Jobs in China

Many international schools are located in China’s largest and most developed cities. These cities offer excellent infrastructure, international communities and a wide range of career opportunities for teachers.

Shanghai

Shanghai is one of China’s most international cities and home to many leading international schools. The city offers a modern lifestyle, excellent public transport and a vibrant cultural scene.

Beijing

China’s capital has a large number of well-established international schools and a strong expatriate community. Teachers working in Beijing have access to historic landmarks and a rich cultural environment.

Shenzhen

Located close to Hong Kong, Shenzhen has rapidly grown into a major technology hub. The city has a growing number of international schools and attracts many international teachers.

Guangzhou

Guangzhou is one of southern China’s largest cities and an important commercial centre. It offers a mix of modern living and traditional Chinese culture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teaching in China

Do international schools in China hire UK teachers?
Yes. Many international schools actively recruit teachers from the UK who hold PGCE and Qualified Teacher Status.

How much can teachers earn in China?
Salaries vary depending on the school and location, but experienced teachers can earn over £40,000 per year along with housing and other benefits.

Do schools provide accommodation in China?
Many international schools provide either furnished accommodation or a housing allowance as part of the employment package.

How long are teaching contracts in China?
Most contracts are for two years, although some schools offer renewable contracts.