Interviews are a professional situation where every answer shapes how a school sees you, not just as a teacher, but as a colleague, role model, and representative of their community. One of the quickest ways to damage that impression? 

Technically, you don’t have to, but…

If you’ve been an international teacher in China for a while, you will know that having fluency in Mandarin isn’t expected or required for your role. Working as an English teacher, or in bilingual or international schools means that English proficiency is the standard language requirement. However! Just because it’s not required, it doesn't mean it’s not needed. Many teachers in China will have experienced the confusion and general helplessness that can come with language barriers. Having at least a basic level of Mandarin is really important, and extremely useful! Here’s why.

At Totally Teach, we’re always keeping ourselves up to date with the latest trends in recruitment. The job market in China has been tough this year, with competition for roles rising, requirements getting higher and the overall standard of excellent teachers always increasing.

So, alongside having the right qualifications and experience, what else can you do to make your profile as an applicant stand out from the crowd?

When preparing for an international teaching job interview, one of the most valuable (and often underused!) resources is the school’s website. A school website can provide a valuable insight into the school’s culture, values, philosophies, and academic approach. 

Utilising the information you can find online is a great way to prepare yourself for an interview and stand out from other candidates for all the right reasons!

Here’s what to look for

When you're first speaking with your recruiter, you might find that there are a few things that we REALLY want to know about you. It’s not just us being nosey, it’s so we can get a better idea of who you are and do an even better job of finding you your dream job!

So, what is it that your recruiter wants to know about you?

Typically, schools in China that hire international teachers have always been favorable towards taking on teaching couples (two educators in a relationship or marriage). It saves the school on financial benefits such as housing allowances, and works as a ‘two-for-one’ deal when filling vacancies. Previously, this has made teaching couples desirable candidates. However, with a rapidly changing market, heightened competition for roles and raised requirements, some schools are developing a different outlook on hiring teaching couples. Read on to find out what’s changed.

Launched on June 10th, The Department for Education (DfE) has just published a set of free online training materials to support the safe and effective use of AI in schools.

Our school tier system has had a shiny new update, including a new addition: Platinum Tier!

Matching inspiring, international educators with excellent schools is our top priority. Nothing makes us happier than facilitating a good fit!

We’re proud to recommend the services of our OFFICIAL pet relocation partner.

Level up your international school leadership with an accredited, professional leadership qualification from our official partners, Leading Your International School.

A Totally Teach first!

We’re proud to invite you to attend our:

🌟 Back To School : WEBINAR SERIES 🌟

Are you worried that you may overstay your visa? Don’t worry! This article shares everything you need to know about what to do and what to expect!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Have you ever considered becoming a teacher in Mexico City? Let us share with you all the important information you need to know before you go!

Are you interested in teaching in Malaysia? In this post we cover all you need to know about work and life in Malaysia.

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.