Why should I choose China?
China is a world of complete contrasts. This programme is designed to let you experience the 'real' China. It's a great place to spend a year as a Language Assistant if you are looking for a totally new and different experience. You do not need to have a knowledge of Mandarin, but you do need to be open-minded, mature, adaptable and ready for a challenge.

During and after your appointment, you will have the chance to explore this vast country, home to the oldest language in the world and one of the world’s four ancient civilisations. From the cities of Beijing and Shanghai, to the deserts of Mongolia, there is an expanse of amazing mountain scenery and historic temples.

What are the terms and conditions in China?
Posts predominantly in secondary schools across the country are offered to graduates. You should ensure that you read the attached document with more detailed information before making your application.

Dates of appointment: 1 September – 30 June (approx).

Hours: Around 20 per week

Pay: between 3,000 RMB and 4,500 RMB per month (net) depending on location. This is equivalent to a local teacher’s salary

Other benefits: Free accommodation with private bathroom and colour TV. Utility fees are usually covered, often to a specified ceiling. The cost of a two-week training course and accommodation during the course is paid by the British Council. Your return flight (flight to China and back to the UK) is paid for by your school upon completion of the contract.

The closing date for China is 28 Feb 2012 but don't leave it until the last minute. Early applicants may be invited to one of the earlier assessment days and will be informed of the results two weeks later.

A placement fee of £80 is payable to the British Council once you have been accepted on to the programme. This would be non-refundable should you withdraw your application.

A full medical examination is required by the Chinese Authorities as part of the work visa application procedure. You will have to pay approximately £100 - £200 for this. More instructions will follow later in the recruitment process once you have been accepted on to the programme.

You must send three copies of all forms: application form, reference form, and, if applicable, a reference from a recent employer.

Plus:

			3 copies of your degree certificate, or a letter (on headed paper) from your university tutor stating you are expected to graduate this summer
			3 copies of the photo page of your passport
			3 copies of your CV

Couples and friends (maximum of two people) may apply to be posted in the same city, but we can not guarantee that you will be in the same school. One application form is required per person.

You can apply here.

Our partner organisation in China is unable to accept applications from candidates who are over 65 years of age due to visa application restrictions.

Where can I go in China?
Posts are available in a number of provinces including Chongqing, Guangdong, Jiangsu, Shandong, Shanghai, Tianjin, Yunnan and Zhejiang. Your flexibility regarding location is encouraged. The list of locations is subject to change.

If you wish to express an area preference in your application form, you must choose three of the areas mentioned above.
Please note, Shanghai province requires 2 years full time formal work experience unless you’re a postgraduate student, in which case don’t need this experience. Requirements for other areas are also subject to change.

We may be able to offer posts in Beijing in the coming year (2012-2013). If this is the case applicants will be given the chance to put this as an area preference when they are invited to the assessment day.

Find out more about what it is like being a language assistant in China by reading the case studies from previous language assistants

Will I be interviewed?
All shortlisted candidates will be requested to attend an assessment day at our offices in the UK in March or April.

Will there be an induction course?
There is a two-week induction course in Beijing for all assistants starting in early August. The course follows a programme of TEFL training (after which there will be assessment), teaching practice under critical supervision, cultural sessions and language lessons. The course is compulsory for all language assistants placed in China.

When will I hear?

You will receive an email from us confirming receipt of your application by mid March.

			March/ April - assessment days held at British Council offices in the UK
			End of April/Start of May - you will find out if your application has been successful
			June/July - you will find out the location of your post directly from the school

Please also see our lifecycle document for more information.