Teach English in Dalian, China (2024)

Nestled on the Liaodong Peninsula's southern tip, Dalian stands as a testament to China's marriage of history with modernity. Often dubbed the 'Hong Kong of the North', this cosmopolitan city combines Russian and Japanese architectural influences, owing to its intriguing past. Bordered by the Yellow Sea on one side and the Bohai Sea on the other, Dalian is renowned for its picturesque coastline, verdant squares, and its dynamic blend of cultures. As an important port city, it has played a pivotal role in China's maritime history, and today it thrives as a hub of industry, tourism, and education.

Reasons to Teach English in Dalian

Multicultural Heritage: With its unique confluence of Chinese, Russian, and Japanese influences, teaching in Dalian offers educators a chance to immerse themselves in a multicultural setting, enriching their own global perspective.
Coastal Beauty: Few cities offer the pleasure of teaching a short distance away from serene beaches. Dalian's coastal beauty can be a rejuvenating backdrop for teachers, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
Booming Education Sector: With the city's growing importance as a commercial and technological center, the demand for English proficiency has surged. This makes Dalian a hotspot for TEFL opportunities and institutes that value quality education.
Vibrant Expat Community: The city's modernity and appeal have drawn expatriates from around the globe. This makes it easier for newcomers to find a supportive community, share experiences, and make lasting friendships.
Gateway to the North: Dalian's strategic location makes it a gateway to explore Northern China and even venture into Russia. Its excellent transportation links offer teachers numerous opportunities for weekend getaways and vacations.
Cultural Experiences: From the Russian Street's European charm to the annual International Fashion Festival, Dalian pulsates with events and experiences that offer teachers a deeper dive into the local culture.
Lower Living Costs: Compared to mega-cities like Shanghai and Beijing, Dalian offers a comfortable living standard at a fraction of the cost, allowing teachers to save while enjoying a high-quality lifestyle.

Understanding Dalian's Education Landscape

Dalian, over the years, has evolved into a center of education in the Liaoning province. The city boasts several top-tier universities, international schools, private language institutes, and public schools that offer English teaching positions. With the rapid growth in the IT and finance sectors, the demand for English proficiency, particularly in business English, has seen a significant rise. Furthermore, Dalian's parents have recognized the importance of English for their children's future, leading to an increasing number of English-medium kindergartens and training centers. This growing emphasis on English education opens the door for TEFL and TESOL qualified teachers to make a mark in the city's educational realm.

Eligibility and Requirements to Teach English in Dalian

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

Bachelor's Degree: A degree from an accredited university, irrespective of the field of study, is a basic requirement.
TEFL/TESOL Certification: While not always mandatory, having a TEFL or TESOL certification can give you an edge in the competitive market and might be a prerequisite for certain institutions.
Criminal Background Check: Most schools will require a clean criminal background check.
Medical Examination: A health check is generally required to ensure you're fit to work.
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.
Teaching Experience: Some top-tier schools and universities may require prior teaching experience, although many training centers are open to hiring fresh graduates.

Salary and Benefits for Teaching English in Dalian

Teachers can expect a salary ranging from 12,000 to 25,000 RMB per month, depending on qualifications, experience, and the type of institution. Universities and international schools tend to offer higher salaries, though they also have more stringent requirements.

Benefits often include:

Housing Allowance: Some schools provide a monthly housing allowance or free accommodation.
Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is often part of the employment package.
Paid Vacations: Public schools and universities generally offer longer paid vacations, while training centers might have shorter breaks but more days off during the week.
Contract Bonus: A bonus upon completing the contract term is common in many schools.
Professional Development: Some institutions offer opportunities for further training and development, including workshops and seminars.

Dalian's comparatively lower cost of living, coupled with these benefits, ensures that teachers can lead a comfortable life while saving a significant portion of their salary.

Living in Dalian

Dalian, often termed the "Hong Kong of the North", is a vibrant city that strikes a harmonious balance between urban modernity and natural beauty. Nestled on the southernmost tip of the Liaodong Peninsula, this coastal city has much to offer to its residents, both in terms of lifestyle and scenic charm.

Climate: Dalian enjoys a temperate maritime climate. Summers are warm but not scorching, while winters are cold but milder than many other northern Chinese cities. The city also benefits from the cool breezes off the Yellow Sea, making it one of China's most pleasant urban centers during the summer months.

Scenery: With its sprawling coastline, Dalian is adorned with beautiful beaches like the Golden Pebble Beach and the Xinghai Beach. Forest parks and squares dot the urban landscape, offering residents pockets of tranquility amidst the bustling city life.

Culture & Entertainment: Dalian's Russian and Japanese architectural influences are a testament to its rich history. The city hosts the annual Dalian International Fashion Festival, attracting fashion enthusiasts from across the globe. For entertainment, there's no shortage of theaters, cinemas, shopping malls, and nightclubs.

Food: Seafood lovers will find themselves in paradise, given Dalian's coastal position. The city offers a variety of dining options ranging from upscale restaurants serving international cuisines to local street food stalls dishing out delicious local fare.

Transport: Dalian boasts an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro system. The city's grid-like layout also makes it fairly easy to navigate. Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport connects the city to major destinations domestically and internationally.

Cost of Living: While Dalian has developed rapidly, the cost of living remains relatively affordable compared to cities like Beijing or Shanghai. Rent, utilities, and daily expenses are moderate, allowing teachers to enjoy a good quality of life and save money.

Language: While Mandarin is the official language, the influence of foreign trade and tourism means English is spoken in many parts of the city, especially in commercial and touristic areas. Nonetheless, picking up some basic Mandarin can be helpful and is appreciated by the locals.

Teacher Stories

Jane from the USA: "I moved to Dalian two years ago, and it's been an adventure from day one. The students are eager to learn, and the community of expat teachers is supportive. I've made friends from all over the world. The best part? Weekend trips to the beach and tasting the freshest seafood dishes!"

Liam from the UK: "When I first considered China, I thought about Beijing or Shanghai. But Dalian has been a hidden gem. The blend of history, architecture, and modernity keeps me fascinated. Plus, the smaller class sizes here offer a chance for more intimate and impactful teaching."

Naledi from South Africa: "Dalian's beauty is unmatched. From parks to promenades, there's always somewhere to relax after a day of teaching. It's been rewarding to teach here, and the school's administration is very supportive of international teachers."

Ella from Australia: "The festivals in Dalian are spectacular. I've danced at the Dalian International Fashion Festival and lit lanterns during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Teaching here has not only been about imparting knowledge but also about embracing a new culture."

Sean from Ireland: "I came for a year and have stayed for three! Dalian offers a perfect mix of professional development and leisure opportunities. And yes, the local beer is quite something!"

Sophie from Canada: "The warmth of the people in Dalian is unparalleled. My students and their families have welcomed me into their homes, making me feel like a part of their community. Every day is a learning experience, both inside and outside the classroom."

Aria from New Zealand: "Teaching in Dalian has been a journey. The city's commitment to education is evident, and the facilities at my school are top-notch. Also, being a coastal city, there's always a sense of calm, making it a great place for teaching and living."

Finn from Ireland: "Dalian's modernity surprised me. The infrastructure, the malls, the tech scene – it's all here. But it's balanced with green spaces and beaches, making it an ideal place for someone like me who loves both city life and nature."

Moving Towards Teaching English In Dalian

Taking the leap to teach English abroad can be both exhilarating and daunting. But cities like Dalian make the transition smoother with their mix of cultural richness and modern conveniences.

Whether you're drawn to Dalian for its scenic coastlines, its bustling urban centers, or the opportunity to make a difference in the classroom, one thing is certain: Dalian promises a transformative journey. If you're looking to combine professional growth with cultural immersion, Dalian might just be the next chapter in your teaching story.