Teaching

A typical classroom setting

Being an English teacher may seem intimidating, but we can provide you with training that will help you enter the classroom with confidence. Our two-week training program is certified by International Training Network, a highly regarded teacher-training center in England (www.itnuk.com). The training takes place just before the Spring and Autumn terms, in February and August.

Our chief requirement for volunteer teachers is that you feel a calling to serve China and her people. In addition, the Chinese government now requires a bachelor’s degree (in any subject) and a minimal amount of teaching experience in order to qualify for a teaching visa and residence permit. If you don’t meet those requirements, you may still be able to join us as a teaching assistant. We prefer volunteers who can serve at least one year, but shorter terms are available in some cases.

Students are encouraged to talk as much as possible

Basic Teaching Conditions

Our school year is divided into two 20-week sessions (late February to mid-July and late August to mid-January). Volunteer teachers are asked to teach a minimum of 10 hours and a maximum of 15 hours per week during those terms. This allows plenty of free time to pursue language study, culture study, and other interests.

Most classes are held at our building in Xigu Park, a lovely setting in the northwestern corner of Tianjin. The school building has eight large classrooms, plus a conference room, auditorium/cafeteria, office space for teachers and administrators, as well as a basketball court. At times, we also teach at businesses or schools in the community. This increases our opportunity to learn about and serve the community and to build relationships outside the school.