Now that Covid is fading into the background, interest in teaching in China has revived.
Enquiries are coming in about the Volunteer Teachers for China, a Columban-sponsored programme also known as AITECE, with requests for updates on a number of concerns.
Is it safe?
There are concerns about both the medical and political situation. Covid has not gone away anywhere in the world and the authorities in China are particularly careful. Our teachers are all at State Universities where precautions are taken very seriously and medical care is readily available. China is as safe as anywhere else.
As for the political situation, people in China are getting on with life as peacefully as possible in a nation of one and a half billion people. Aggressive talk about Taiwan has caused concern outside China but is accepted as part of life within the country. No one is preparing for war, people are too busy getting on with life. Aitece does not see any reasons to be any more concerned than usual.
When is the next starting date?
In China there are two semesters: 1 March and 1 September. At present a number of applicants are thinking of March 2024. It takes at least four months to complete the paperwork in China and have the visa issued so we are now beginning preparations for Spring 2024.
What is the age limit?
Many of our applicants are retired or retiring teachers. The age limit set by the Chinese government is 60 but well qualified teachers of 61 or 62 may be accepted. We have good contacts in China and that allows for some flexibility.
What qualifications are necessary?
A third level degree and teaching experience. For those without experience in teaching English as a foreign language we suggest a short TEFL or CELTA course. They can be done online, in a short period and are reasonable.
Contact us if you have any other questions. You can get the details on our website www.aitece.ie, or call Hugh: (083) 149 9533 or (01) 628 6036 or email [email protected]
