Teach English in Chongqing, China (2024)

Perched along the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, Chongqing is a sprawling metropolis known for its mist-covered landscapes, mountainous terrains, and spicy cuisine. As one of China's four direct-controlled municipalities, Chongqing is a hub of activity, dotted with modern skyscrapers, historic streets, and a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. With its unique topography and vibrant urban life, Chongqing represents an intriguing blend of the traditional and the contemporary, offering foreign educators a chance to immerse themselves in a deeply enriching environment.

Reasons to Teach English in Chongqing

Cultural Immersion: Unlike some of China's more internationally-renowned cities, Chongqing offers a genuine slice of Chinese culture. Teachers here will experience traditional festivals, tea houses, and local customs firsthand, enhancing their teaching journey.
Booming Demand: With Chongqing's growing significance in China's economic landscape, the demand for English education is skyrocketing. This provides ample opportunities for English teachers to find rewarding positions across various institutions.
Affordable Living: Despite its urban sprawl, the cost of living in Chongqing remains relatively lower than in first-tier cities, allowing teachers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle and save simultaneously.
Gastronomic Adventures: For those with a penchant for spicy food, Chongqing is a paradise. The city is famed for its hotpot and a myriad of other delectable dishes that promise to tantalize the taste buds.
Natural Beauty: Beyond its urban confines, Chongqing boasts stunning natural scenery. The nearby Three Gorges, for instance, offers breathtaking views and is a favorite weekend getaway for many residents.
Modern Infrastructure: Over the years, Chongqing has seen significant infrastructural development. From efficient metro systems to sprawling shopping malls, the city ensures a blend of comfort and excitement for its inhabitants.
Vibrant Expat Community: While Chongqing's foreign community is smaller compared to cities like Beijing or Shanghai, it's incredibly tight-knit. This allows newcomers to form lasting connections and easily acclimatize to their new surroundings.

Understanding Chongqing's Education Landscape

Chongqing's education scene is as diverse as the city itself. With a mix of public schools, private institutions, international schools, and universities, the city caters to a wide range of educational needs. As Chongqing's international presence grows, so does the emphasis on English education, creating a plethora of opportunities for foreign educators.

Public schools in Chongqing follow the national curriculum with English introduced at an early age. Private language schools cater to students outside their regular school hours, focusing on enhancing spoken English and preparing students for English proficiency tests. International schools, often affiliated with Western curriculums, offer a global perspective and cater primarily to expatriate families. Universities also recruit native English speakers, especially for courses like English literature, linguistics, and business English.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Chongqing

The requirements to teach English in Chongqing will be similar to the standard requirements for teaching English in China, however, here are the specific requirements for Chongqing:

Bachelor's Degree: Regardless of your major, having a Bachelor's degree is a must.
Native English Speaker: Teachers should be native speakers and hold passports from the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, or South Africa. Non native English speakers can still work in China as a subject teacher, or teaching assistant/manager.
TEFL Certification: To get a work permit, you'll need a TEFL certificate. Some employers might even offer to sponsor your TEFL training.
Health and Background Checks: Before getting a visa, you'll need to pass a health check and provide a clean criminal background check.
Age Limit: Ideally, you should be under the retirement age, which is 55 for women and 60 for men in China.

Passion for teaching, adaptability, and an interest in Chinese culture will further bolster your profile.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Chongqing

The salary for English teachers in Chongqing can vary based on the institution, qualifications, and experience. On average:

Public Schools: 9,000 – 17,000 RMB per month
Private Language Schools: 10,000 – 16,000 RMB per month
Kindergartens: 10,000 - 25,000 RMB per month
International Schools: 14,000 – 28,000 RMB per month
Universities: 6,000 - 25,000 RMB per month
Private English Lessons: 70 - 200 RMB per hour

Additionally, some institutions offer benefits like housing allowances, airfare reimbursements, health insurance, and paid holidays. The cost of living in Chongqing is lower than in first-tier cities, which allows teachers to save a significant portion of their salary.

Living in Chongqing

Nestled beside the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, Chongqing is a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. As you consider making Chongqing your home while teaching English, here's a glimpse into life in this bustling metropolis:

Natural Splendor: Despite its sprawling urban landscape, Chongqing boasts a significant amount of green spaces. The Eling Park and Nanshan Mountain provide serene getaways from the city hustle, offering panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis below.
Cuisine: Chongqing is renowned for its spicy and flavorful cuisine. From the iconic hotpot to spicy noodles, living here is a culinary delight for those who can handle a bit of heat.
Culture & History: The city is rich in history, with sites like the ancient Ciqikou town and the Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Three Gorges Museum offers insights into the area's cultural and historical significance, especially the massive Three Gorges Dam project.
Climate: Chongqing is often referred to as one of China's "Three Furnaces" due to its humid and hot summers. However, winters are relatively mild. The foggy atmosphere gives the city its nickname "Fog City", with misty views adding a touch of mystique.
Cost of Living: While Chongqing has seen rapid development, the cost of living remains lower than cities like Shanghai or Beijing. This means that your earnings as an English teacher can stretch further, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle and potential savings.
Connectivity: With its vast subway network, buses, and well-connected roads, getting around Chongqing is a breeze. The city also boasts a major international airport, connecting you to various destinations domestically and internationally.
Expat Community: Chongqing's growing expat community means there's a good chance you'll find fellow teachers or international residents to connect with. Several events, cafes, and hubs cater specifically to the international crowd, making it easier to find a slice of home.

Teacher Stories

Sophie from the UK: "Coming from London, I was used to the buzz of a big city, but Chongqing took it to another level. The warmth of the people, combined with the spicy hotpot, made me fall in love. Teaching here has been rewarding; my students are eager to learn, and the school has been incredibly supportive."

David from the USA: "I've taught in several cities across Asia, but Chongqing stands out. There's a certain charm to the city, with its towering skyscrapers on one side and serene mountains on the other. The students are hardworking, and it's been a joy to see them progress."

Tandeka from South Africa: "It's been an adventure living in the 'Fog City'. The misty mornings, the flavorful cuisine, and the cultural richness make every day exciting. My students, with their endless curiosity and energy, have made my teaching experience here unforgettable."

Aiden from Australia: "Chongqing's rapid development is evident in its infrastructure and lifestyle. Yet, it retains a sense of history and tradition. Balancing teaching with exploring the city has been an exciting journey. The local expat community is vibrant, and I've made lifelong friends here."

Fiona from Ireland: "The first time I tried Chongqing hotpot, I knew I was in for a unique experience. Teaching English here has been fulfilling. The school's modern facilities, combined with the students' enthusiasm, make for a perfect teaching environment."

Liam from Canada: "I was initially daunted by the idea of moving to one of China's 'Three Furnaces'. But the warmth I experienced was not just from the weather but from its people. My students are the highlight of my day, and the city never ceases to amaze me."

Kiri from New Zealand: "From the Dazu Rock Carvings to the bustling streets of the city center, Chongqing has been a blend of historical wonders and modern marvels. Teaching here has enhanced my global perspective, and I've grown both professionally and personally."

Moving Towards Teaching English In Chongqing

Chongqing, with its majestic landscapes, culinary delights, and passionate learners, offers a unique teaching experience that blends the best of tradition and modernity.

Taking the leap to teach English in this vibrant city not only shapes the lives of countless students but also paves the way for personal enrichment. From navigating the intricate lanes of Ciqikou to savoring the spicy hotpot on a cool evening, Chongqing beckons with experiences that will remain etched in memory long after your teaching stint. Embrace the adventure, and let Chongqing's charm weave its magic into your teaching journey.