The Teachers' Lounge > School Reviews and Experiences (ON-TOPIC)

Teaching at Birmy International English - China

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JenniferWhiting:
Hi everyone! I'm Jennifer Whiting, 24 and a teacher by profession, and soon I will be teaching at Birmy International English School in Taizhou, China. I would like to ask how's the life of a foreign teacher of English in China.

I've always wanted to travel abroad, so when I learned about the employment opportunities for native English speakers in many Asian countries, I decided I should spend about a year in any of those countries. As I did my research, I realized that there are so many job openings in China, and so I thought it could be the best destination for me.

I sent my application to Birmy English and immediately received a job offer. They immediately made arrangements for my visa, and said that I would be getting my plane ticket really soon. So while waiting, I would like to learn more about how it is to live and work in China. I'm really hoping to gain good experience in China, which will help enhance my career as a teacher.

Specifically, I want to ask about Chinese students. Do they love learning English? Are Chinese people accommodating to foreigners? And how do foreign teachers spend their free time?

I would really appreciate any tips or comments you could give me coz I need every piece of information so that I could know what to expect when I get there. 

ZachW:
Teaching in China is good, but you can't expect a perfect life there. The major cities are great, but if you are to live in provinces, you should be prepared to live really simply. Chinese people are friendly, but of course, there are some who are rude as well. This shouldn't be surprising because I don't think there's a place in the world where everyone is kind and friendly.

So you're going to Birmy International English School? That's interesting because I used to teach there, too. Birmy was actually the third language school I went to in China, and by far the best as well. You don't have to worry about your visa because they will take care of that for you. Accommodation isn't a problem either as the school provides the housing for their foreign teachers.

As for Chinese students, well, they are so much different from our students here in the US. Chinese learners tend to take their English classes easy because it is in fact the most relaxing class they have. They enjoy playing games and doing interesting activities, so make sure you always have one for them.

I think Birmy English is an excellent choice, especially because it's your first time to teach abroad. As long as you are positive and friendly with your co-teachers, there will be no reason for you not to enjoy your stay in China.

unterieben:
Welcome!

Did you see this thread about Birmy?

http://raoulschinasaloon.com/index.php?topic=5009.0

Just Like Mr Benn:
It's a shocking indictment of the world, (and by world I obviously mean me) that one's first post on the forum has to be unremittingly negative and cynical, otherwise everyone (and again, I firmly believe that I am everyone) will think that you're a 'fake' who has joined up to say nice things about an under-attack employer.

Isn't it awful that I think the life of an English teacher in China cannot result in somebody as positive as Zach; at least not without the kind of medication that is so tricky to get in this country.

Honestly Zach, I hope that you're genuine and will tell us more about yourself. A bit of fresh positivity around here would be lovely. How many different schools have you taught in? I'm on my third and I'm not sure many of us have racked up more than that.

I wonder if the one question birmy ask potential employees is whether they believe everybody should use their real name on social media.

Isidnar:
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