Reputable schools in China

Hello all! I am a certified/licensed teacher in my state. I majored in English and have a minor in Secondary Education. I’ve always been interested in teaching English abroad. Not only am I passionate about teaching (even though I know it’s a struggle and a lot of teachers are going through it) but I’ve always wanted to travel the world. I am in my mid twenties and it’s time I do this for myself.

I’ve applied to places in Taiwan, Japan, and China. I have had interviews and offers already, so that’s been really exciting. But I wanted to ask experienced international teachers if they have any specific reputable schools in Taiwan, Japan, or China that they would recommend. Whether you or someone you know has worked with that specific school, I would appreciate your experiences or input. I’ve done my research BUT I always like hearing other people’s experiences especially because I don’t really have any other teacher friends. Also, even if you’re a beginner teacher like myself— I’d love your input too. Thanks a lot!

Posted Dec 30, 2022, 5:16 PM UTC

314
reality_star_wars•

Some well-known (not necessarily reputable) schools.

SHANGHAI: Shanghai American, Dulwich, Concordia, Shanghai Comm. International School (was at one time anyways).

BEIJING: ISB, WAB (So I hear), UWC Beijing

Gunagzhou: AISG

Shekou: Shekou International

It's been 8 years since I lived and worked in China. I also know nothing about bilingual schools. These schools may not have the reputation they once had.

7
Tapeworm_fetus•

Can second SAS, ISB, and AISG were all very reputable as recently as last year.

5
bookreader61OP•

Even so, I appreciate your reply! I will look into these schools and see what I can find. Thank you so much!

1
Feeling_Tower9384•

International School of Beijing, Western Academy of Beijing, Shanghai American School, Concordia Shanghai, American International School of Guangzhou, Shekou International is a pretty reliable list.

4
bookreader61OP•

Appreciate your reply and input. Going to look into these tomorrow. Thank you!

2
bookreader61OP•

Great to hear. Thank you for your input!

1
PLM160•

Japan - AISJ & YIS. A couple others that a smaller NIS & CA. May be others but I don’t have experience with them.

4
bookreader61OP•

I’ll look into those! Thanks for your reply. Do you work in Japan? If so, may I PM some questions?

1
PLM160•

I did until last year. Sure pm me

2
the_greasy_goose•

I have some info on schools in Taiwan, both first hand experience and from friends in other schools. PM if you have questions about specific schools in Taiwan, I may be able to help.

The clear "best" school in Taiwan is TAS, but working there isn't a reality for most teachers (very competitive). Since you're a beginner teacher, chances are you'd be looking at the ~10 other "international" schools on the island (+/- 5 schools depending on your definition of international, or even school...). Most other schools are the usual balance of good in some areas and bad in others. "Better" depends a lot on what you're looking for, personally.

2
bookreader61OP•

Hi! Thanks so much for your reply! Ill PM you!

1
yamers•

Taiwan has a lot of these "international" schools that pay barely anything, and many people there get hired without having a license to teach. So watch out for those. I would focus more on China to be honest, the pay seems better AND the overall fun factor of being in a Chinese top tier city blows anything Taiwan has to offer out of the water. Only problem is their gov is wonky, but money is huge.

2
bookreader61OP•

Thanks so much for your reply! Appreciate it. If you don’t mind me asking, are you teaching in China? If so, how are you liking it?

1
yamers•

not in china, never did china, just visited, did 3yrs in tw though. Would like China at some point, but idk how the situation will develop with china relations.

2