The Totally Teach blog

Your guide to teaching abroad, career growth, and everything in between

Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

What Qualifications Do I Need to Work in an IB School?

The qualifications needed to apply for a position at an IB school can be ever-changing. That’s why we created this guide to share with you all of the qualification details you need to know in order to start your international teaching journey off on the right foot.

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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

How do I transfer my Work Permit in China?

Do you need to change jobs within China? The work permit transfer process can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this step-by-step guide to inform you of nuts and bolts of the process.

***Please note, the process may vary from city to city. Your new school’s HR will be able to assist in the process.


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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

Zhejiang Province Reference Letters

Are you a Kindergarten teacher looking for a new job? You’ve seen some good roles in Zhejiang province, but wait, what’s this? The school is asking for a very specific type of 2 years reference letter? Confused?? Don’t worry! Read on to find out exactly what you need to include.


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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

FAQ How Can AI Help My Job Application?

AI is an incredibly powerful tool that has revolutionized the job market and, therefore, impacted how people search for and apply for jobs.

This post will share some of the ways that AI can be useful during your job search and application process, and some of the ways AI can be a detriment when not used responsibly.

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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

Are Training Centres Still a Thing?

Just a few years ago, training centres were a booming part of China's private education industry. These centres provided foreign teachers with flexible hours, competitive pay, and a steady stream of students outside the public school system. In 2021, sweeping education reforms under China’s "Double Reduction" policy changed everything.

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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

What Can Totally Teach Do For Me ?

We can help you get a job at an excellent school in China or internationally! 

But there’s more!

We strive to offer a well-rounded service to our teachers, and be able to offer you even more opportunities to enhance your teaching career. Our carefully selected networks allow our teachers to access clear pathways to professional development, and receive unique benefits such as financial discounts, educational information and networking opportunities. Not bad!


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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

Why Do Schools Have Higher Requirements Now?

In recent years, foreign teachers seeking positions in China have noticed a marked increase in job requirements. What was once a relatively straightforward process - especially for native speakers - has evolved into a more competitive and regulated landscape. So, why are schools setting the bar higher now? Here's a breakdown of the current job market and the factors shaping this shift.


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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

Should I Accept An Interview Invite, Even If I Don’t Think It’s The Right Job For Me?

What an excellent question! And certainly not a situation with a clear ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. Job hunting is never straightforward, and it’s not uncommon to receive interest from schools or locations that you hadn’t previously considered.

So, what should you do when you receive an interview invite for a role you’re not entirely sold on?



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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

Question Schools Ask Us

What do schools want to know about you once we’ve sent them your CV? We reveal the questions that pop up the most, to give you the chance to think about how your CV comes across, and how you can make that all important positive first impression.

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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

Stop Making These Intro Video Mistakes

An intro video supports your overall application, by allowing a school to see the extra details that they can’t get from your CV. Check out our guide on how to get your intro video right the first time.

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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

The Totally Teach Welcome Back Bonus

Have you been successfully placed by Totally Teach before? We’d love to have you back! If you’re looking for a new role, return to Totally Teach, pass probation, and we’ll pay you 1,500 RMB. It’s as simple as that!

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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

Are There Advantages to Living in a Tier 2 City?

Tier 2 cities in China are often provincial capitals or large urban areas that aren’t as globally recognised but still offer a range of benefits to residents.  Here are some of the key advantages of living in a Tier 2 city in China:

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Georgina Livermore Georgina Livermore

How do I Negotiate a Higher Salary?

Finding a new job is an excellent chance to negotiate for a higher salary, but it can feel like a daunting topic to bring up with your new potential employer. Follow our top advice on how to approach salary negotiations.

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