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.
A More Competitive Market
China remains one of the most attractive destinations for foreign educators due to its rich culture, growing global presence, and strong demand for English education. However, the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted international hiring and led to a backlog of qualified teachers eager to return or relocate. Now that borders have reopened, the market has seen a surge in applications. Schools can afford to be selective, often prioritising candidates with higher qualifications, teaching experience, and professional credentials like a teaching license.
The Salary Spike During Lockdowns
Another effect of the COVID lockdowns was that many schools struggled to retain foreign staff due to travel restrictions, uncertainty, and safety concerns. To keep classrooms running, they offered significantly higher salaries and more flexible terms to the teachers who stayed. While this helped schools survive at the time, it's now affecting the job landscape. Today, many institutions are operating on tighter budgets, and they're looking for more value for money, by hiring teachers who not only meet legal standards but also bring strong credentials, classroom experience, and curriculum familiarity to justify their compensation.
Rise of Local Talent and Bilingual Education
Another contributing factor is the rapid improvement in English proficiency among Chinese teachers. Many local educators are now fluent in English and hold international teaching certifications. As a result, schools - especially in larger cities - have more options when hiring and can demand more from foreign candidates.
Higher Expectations from Parents
Parents in China are investing heavily in their children's education and have become more discerning. They now expect foreign teachers to bring not just language skills, but also professional teaching qualifications, methods, cultural awareness, and curriculum development capabilities. This demand for quality, places further pressure on schools to hire only the most qualified and experienced educators.
What This Means for You
If you're considering teaching in China or looking to renew your position, now is the time to level up your credentials. A TEFL/TESOL certificate is often the bare minimum, while a bachelor’s degree (ideally in education or English), prior teaching experience and a qualification such as a PGCE, are increasingly essential. Schools may also look for teachers with knowledge of specific curricula such as IB, AP, or Cambridge as well.
In short, higher requirements are a reflection of a developing education system that values quality and professionalism. While the bar has been raised, the rewards remain strong for those who are well-prepared and passionate about teaching.
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