Teaching English at a Public School in Taiwan

Public schools in Taiwan give foreign teachers a chance to experience the rhythm of local life while making a meaningful impact in the classroom. These government-run institutions provide a stable, structured environment that blends teaching with cultural immersion. Compared to cram schools (buxibans), public schools tend to have more consistent hours, clearer responsibilities, and generous vacation time.

Many foreign teachers find their way into public schools through official hiring programs like the Taiwan Foreign English Teacher Program (TFETP), which helps place educators across the country—from urban centers to scenic rural towns. Whether you're just starting your TEFL journey or looking for a more grounded teaching experience, public schools offer a unique and rewarding way to live and work in Taiwan.

📘 1. What Are Public Schools in Taiwan Like?

Public schools in Taiwan follow a standardized, government-administered education system divided into elementary school (grades 1–6), junior high school (grades 7–9), and senior high school (grades 10–12). Most foreign English teachers are placed in elementary or junior high settings, where students range from 6 to 15 years old.

Class sizes typically range from 20 to 35 students, depending on the school and location. Students are generally respectful, well-behaved, and used to structured routines. However, their confidence in speaking English can vary, and much of your role will involve building that comfort in a friendly and engaging way.

English is a required subject, with an emphasis on reading, writing, listening, and basic communication. The goal is to prepare students for high school entrance exams while also improving real-world fluency—though test prep still plays a large role in the education system.

🧑‍🏫 2. The Role of the English Teacher

In Taiwan’s public schools, foreign English teachers typically serve as co-teachers. This means working alongside a local Taiwanese English teacher to deliver lessons. While the Taiwanese teacher often handles grammar explanations and classroom management, your role focuses more on pronunciation, natural conversation, and interactive learning.

Your goal is to bring energy and real-world context to English lessons—through games, dialogues, storytelling, cultural activities, and speaking practice. You might also lead certain segments of the lesson or facilitate group work and presentations.

Beyond the classroom, your duties can include lesson planning, grading simple assignments, participating in English festivals, or helping organize school events. Some schools may ask you to create visual materials, join teacher workshops, or attend community activities—offering a deeper cultural connection.

⏰ 3. Working Hours and Schedule

Teaching in a Taiwanese public school generally follows a standard daytime schedule, running from around 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. This is one of the biggest draws compared to private language centers (buxibans), which often operate in the evenings and on weekends.

You’ll usually teach 20 to 24 classroom hours per week, with additional time set aside for lesson planning, staff meetings, and school events. While office hours are expected, the work environment is typically relaxed between classes, giving you time to prepare or socialize with fellow teachers.

The academic year is split into two semesters, with school starting in late August or early September and ending in late June or early July. Teachers enjoy generous paid breaks—a winter break around Lunar New Year, and a longer summer holiday. National holidays like Mid-Autumn Festival and Dragon Boat Festival are also observed, making it easy to explore Taiwan during your time off.

💼 4. Salary, Benefits, and Perks

Teaching English in Taiwan’s public schools comes with a competitive salary and solid benefits, especially through government-backed programs like TFETP. Your monthly salary typically ranges from NT$62,720 to NT$73,025 (roughly USD $2,000–$2,300), depending on your education level, teaching certification, and years of experience.

In addition to your base pay, public school jobs include comprehensive national health insurance, labor insurance, and enrollment in the public pension system. These are significant perks that provide security and peace of mind—especially for long-term stays.

Many programs also offer bonuses and allowances. You may receive airfare reimbursement upon arrival and completion of your contract, a renewal bonus if you stay another year, and even performance-based bonuses in some cases. Add in the long paid holidays, and it’s a financially and personally rewarding package for teachers looking to build a stable life abroad.

✈️ 5. The TFETP Program (Taiwan Foreign English Teacher Program)

The Taiwan Foreign English Teacher Program (TFETP) is the most common gateway for foreign teachers entering Taiwan’s public school system. Backed by the Taiwanese government, TFETP places qualified English teachers in elementary and junior high schools throughout the country—including cities, towns, and rural communities.

To be eligible, you typically need:

• A passport from an English-speaking country
• A bachelor’s degree
• A recognized TEFL/TESOL certificate (or equivalent teaching license)

Applications usually open in early spring for August placements, but rolling applications are often accepted throughout the year to fill urgent positions.

TFETP offers several key benefits:

• Visa sponsorship and government support
• Airfare reimbursement and relocation assistance
• Guaranteed placement in a public school, often with built-in support systems and local co-teachers

While it’s possible to apply to individual schools or local governments directly, TFETP simplifies the process—especially for first-time teachers. It’s designed to make the transition smooth, structured, and supportive from the moment you apply to your first day in the classroom.

🏘️ 6. Housing, Lifestyle, and Location

Where you’re placed in Taiwan can have a big impact on your daily life. Public school teachers may be assigned to urban, suburban, or rural areas, depending on school needs and program availability.

In cities like Taipei, Taichung, or Kaohsiung, expect convenient public transport, more Western amenities, and larger expat communities. Rural or smaller towns offer quieter surroundings, deeper cultural immersion, and more chances to connect with local students and families—though English-speaking support and entertainment options may be limited.

While public school contracts don’t always include free housing, some schools offer a monthly housing stipend or assistance finding a nearby apartment. The cost of living in Taiwan is generally affordable, especially outside the major cities.

As a teacher, you’ll enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with:

• Excellent public transport
• Low crime rates
• Vibrant food culture
• Welcoming locals and fellow expats

Whether you prefer the buzz of a city or the peace of the countryside, teaching in Taiwan lets you live safely, affordably, and meaningfully while experiencing one of Asia’s most underrated destinations.

📚 7. Curriculum and Teaching Materials

Public school teachers in Taiwan typically follow a nationally approved curriculum set by the Ministry of Education (MOE). This means that the core materials—such as textbooks and lesson objectives—are already provided, giving you a solid foundation to work from.

That said, there’s often room for creativity in how you deliver your lessons. Many schools encourage foreign teachers to bring energy and variety to the classroom—through games, conversation activities, and cultural exchanges—especially when co-teaching with local English teachers.

You won’t be left to figure it out alone. Most schools offer:

• Teacher’s guides and lesson plans
• Visual aids and multimedia resources
• Support from co-teachers or bilingual staff

The structure can be especially helpful for newer teachers, while the flexibility allows more experienced educators to bring their own flair. If you're the kind of teacher who enjoys mixing fun with structure, Taiwan’s public school classrooms offer a balanced and supportive environment to do just that.

👥 8. Who Is a Good Fit for Public School Jobs?

Teaching in a Taiwanese public school is a great match for those who thrive in structured environments and are excited by the idea of cultural immersion. These roles typically appeal to people who enjoy working with young learners in a consistent, professional setting.

This path is especially suited for:

• Licensed teachers or experienced educators who want a formal teaching role.
• Newer teachers who prefer a clear curriculum and guidance from co-teachers.
• Individuals looking for longer-term stability, paid vacation, and government-backed benefits.

Personality-wise, you’ll do well if you’re:

• Patient and adaptable—especially when navigating different classroom expectations.
• Collaborative—as many roles involve co-teaching or working alongside local staff.
• Reliable and organized—public schools value punctuality, planning, and professionalism.

If you're the kind of person who finds satisfaction in steady progress, community integration, and making a real impact in students’ lives, public school teaching in Taiwan might be your perfect fit.

⚖️ 9. Public School vs. Buxiban Jobs: Quick Comparison

If you're torn between teaching at a public school or a buxiban in Taiwan, it helps to break down the major differences:

• Schedule: Public schools run on a typical weekday schedule (8 AM–4 PM), with evenings and weekends off. Buxibans operate afternoons to evenings (often 2 PM–9 PM), and may require Saturday shifts.
• Curriculum: Public schools follow a national curriculum with clear objectives. Buxibans vary widely—some have rigid programs, others expect teachers to create their own materials.
• Stability: Public school jobs (especially through government programs like TFETP) offer more job security and benefits. Buxiban quality can vary by school, and contracts may feel more business-oriented.
• Students: Public school classes are larger and typically involve elementary or junior high students. Buxibans often focus on younger children but can include teens and adults, with smaller class sizes and more face-to-face engagement.
• Vacation: Public school teachers enjoy longer paid vacations (summer and winter breaks). Buxiban teachers usually get fewer days off and must follow the business’s holiday schedule.

Who might prefer public schools:

• Teachers seeking a structured role with a government-backed program.
• Those who value work-life balance, professional development, and job stability.

Who might prefer buxibans:

• Teachers who want to start quickly, live in major cities, and enjoy a more flexible, fast-paced environment.

Your ideal fit depends on your personality, career goals, and the lifestyle you want to build while living and working in Taiwan.

📝 Conclusion: Teaching with Purpose in Taiwan’s Public Schools

Teaching in Taiwan’s public schools isn’t just a job—it’s a meaningful way to contribute to students’ futures while immersing yourself in a culture that’s both welcoming and rewarding. The structure, benefits, and slower pace appeal to teachers who value consistency, cultural exchange, and long-term growth.

Whether you join through the TFETP or secure a role via direct hire, public school positions offer a solid foundation for life abroad. With competitive pay, generous vacations, and built-in community support, they’re a smart choice for those seeking more than just a paycheck.

If this path aligns with your goals, start preparing early—demand is rising, and placements can fill up fast. Taiwan’s public education system needs teachers who are passionate, adaptable, and eager to make a difference.

👉 Browse Teaching Jobs in Taiwan
👉 Learn More About Teaching English in Taiwan
👉 Learn More About the TFETP Program