Here's what some of our best teachers have to say about teaching in China with SIE:
Kate M.
English Teacher at SIEWhere are you from?
Canada
How long have you been teaching abroad? How long with SIE?
I have been teaching abroad for 5 years, the past 2 years have been in China with SIE.
What advice do you have for people about the SIE recruitment and interview process?
My first advice to anyone abroad, with any agency, is to be honest. Do not be afraid to admit your naivety or things you may be unsure about, this agency is here to help you. They can better help you when they have a greater understanding of where or why you are confused, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or explanation – I still do, all these years later!
How has SIE supported and assisted you since arriving in China?
SIE has been on hand for any last minute change or seeming emergency. I have found SIE very responsive, I never wait long on Wechat before I have a response and explanation to my question, and an answered phone call should the situation require it! SIE has taken my partner and I through our first few days each year we have been with them: finalizing residence permits, completing medical checks, finding apartments, etc.
You are teaching in Shenzhen at the moment, can you tell us a little bit about your impressions of the city? What do you like most about living there?
I really enjoy living in Shenzhen, I find it a lovely cultural mix of history and the modern world. Within one city, you can find historic parks and ancient villages, as well as modern styled bars, restaurants, and events. The expat world is very much alive in this city, it is young and full of things to do and things to try! I enjoy learning more about China’s history and cultural background, while also being accessible to food and familiarities that remind me of home. I have been able to have a Canadian Thanksgiving dinner at a local restaurant, and then go to an ancient village and temple the very next day!
What do you enjoy most about teaching English?
I work with younger students in particular, and I enjoy seeing the excitement and curiosity that comes with learning a brand new language at such an early age. Students have such an innate sense of curiosity and the ability to be excited about something that may seem as basic or fundamental in an English-first school.
Can you tell us about your favorite class at the moment?
I currently teach kindergarten, meaning I am with one class for the entire day. However, something interesting from that is that I am learning as much as I am teaching! I am getting to know these kids on a personal level and see the intricacies of their school day. I am also starting to learn a few key Chinese words or phrases by listening to their common dialogue.
Tell us about a recent fun experience or adventure you’ve had!
My partner and I have had countless little adventures throughout South China. There are countless cultural cities to explore – from boat tours in FengJian to Tea Farming in Yingde! Each weekend provides enough time for us to hop on a high speed train and explore a new city! Over the recent October holiday, my partner and I traveled to Taiwan for 5 days. The booking, travel, and adventure was easy and accessible. This is an opportunity we otherwise certainly would not have been able to seize. China makes such adventures so easy! Not only have we been able to explore Shenzhen, but this working opportunity has also opened us up to countless other adventures in places we would have never dreamed of.
Kayley-Ann
English Teacher at SIEWhere are you from?
Pretoria, South Africa
How long have you been teaching abroad? How long with SIE?
Since September 2019 till now (2.5 months).
What advice do you have for people about the SIE recruitment and interview process?
Just be yourself! Always remember that the SIE is here to help you with this process. The SIE staff are very thorough and being yourself will help them place you in the most appropriate school for you.
How has SIE supported and assisted you since arriving in China?
SIE has helped with all the necessary documents, as well as, everything we struggled with as foreigners. This is including but not limited to assistance with acquiring residence permits (in china), setting up phone contracts, as well as, acquiring the perfect place to rent. SIE has helped us every step of the way and it’s very reassuring that they are always just a phone call away.
You are teaching in Shenzhen at the moment, can you tell us a little bit about your impressions of the city? What do you like most about living there?
Shenzhen is very young and as such it attracts lots of different types of people, which gives the place a very vibrant atmosphere.
What do you enjoy most about teaching English?
I like the aspect of making a difference in the children’s’ lives. The education system encourages learning more than most countries, and as such the children have an outlook that makes them tend to want to learn from and respect their teachers. The kids in this country love learning about English which makes teaching it so much more enjoyable.
Can you tell us about your favorite class at the moment?
Class one and two are my favorite classes. They are full of energy and make teaching English so much more fun. Their eagerness to learn is inspiring and makes me enjoy teaching every day.
China is full of surprises and unexpected adventures, tell us about one you have had recently!
I didn’t come here with the intention of making friends, however I have met some incredible people who have made my stay here much more comfortable and supportive!
Chris H.
English Teacher at SIEWhere are you from?
Michigan, USA
How long have you been teaching abroad? How long with SIE?
I have been teaching abroad and with SIE for about 3 months now.
What advice do you have for people about the SIE recruitment and interview process?
The best advice I can give is to relax and be yourself. They are there to help you and want you to succeed. If they see anything you should work on with regards to teaching, they are right there to help you.
How has SIE supported and assisted you since arriving in China?
They have helped me find a great school, set up accounts, and even wrote a letter of invitation for my wife to help her get a visa. Anytime I have an issue and need help, the employees at SIE are always there.
You are teaching in Shenzhen at the moment, can you tell us a littlbe bit about your impressions of the city? What do you like most about living there?
I live in the Futian district and the city is surprisingly clean. You hear horror stories about China but when you get here it’s pretty different. The people are nice, the streets are cleaned daily and the public transportation is easy to use. Especially once you have a metro card and WeChat pay. I love Chinese food yes, but the best thing about living here is the cost of living. It’s very cheap. You can’t help but save. Especially if you eat Chinese food and don’t party too hard.
What do you enjoy most about teaching English?
I enjoy helping students get over blocks in their language abilities. Seeing them finally understand something and progress to the next level is rewarding. I also enjoy giving students the chance to just have a chat with me. Getting them comfortable with speaking is always a challenge and I enjoy it when they finally stop being shy.
Can you tell us about your favorite class at the moment?
My favorite class is grade 6. They started out the semester by misbehaving a little but they soon realized I was cool and we started talking about all kinds of things. They are very curious and are not shy to speak.
Barnaux
English Teacher at SIEWhere are you from?
South Africa
How long have you been teaching abroad? How long with SIE?
Abroad for 3 and a half years. 2 months with SIE.
What advice do you have for people about the SIE recruitment and interview process?
They are very reputable and they don’t change anything that wasn’t in your contract or has been discussed. I have heard a lot of bad stories from teachers in China, luckily I know I won’t have that with SIE.
How has SIE supported and assisted you since arriving in China?
They gave me a start-up loan to make sure I have enough money during my first month. My agent has even been helping me to buy everything I need online. SIE also assisted in getting all my documents and paperwork since I arrived.
You are teaching in Shenzhen at the moment, can you tell us about your impressions of the city? What do you like most about living there?
Shenzhen has so much to offer. The nightlife is great and has plenty western restaurants. You also have a lot of options to go hiking that are not too far away.
What do you enjoy most about teaching English?
Growing with your children and seeing how they improve, month after month.
Can you tell us a little bit about your favorite class at the moment?
I teach grades 5-9. Every class has their own personality and choosing a favorite would be like choosing what’s your favorite, cheese or ice cream haha.
China is full of surprises and unexpected adventures. Tell us about one you have had recently?
The other night I met some friendly people who helped me to get home in the early hours of the morning when my phone was dead! Sincerely many thanks!