Our China Schools programme is a fantastic way to launch your TEFL career, with support, community, mentorship, and an accredited qualification. All with meals, accommodation and an end-of-programme trip included.
On this programme, you will teach English in a school in China, and study towards an Ofqual Level 5 TEFL certificate. Read on below to learn what happens in each stage of the programme after your place is confirmed.
Pre-Departure
- On-hand support – Guidance from our staff throughout the pre-departure process for booking flights, visa process, and more to ensure you’re as prepared as can be for your time in China.
- Lots of information – A webinar and pre-departure pack with details on what to bring, what to expect from your programme and how to adapt to life in China.
- Connect with your fellow Gotoco’ers – You’ll be added to a group chat so that you can get to know each other and create travel plans together.
- Begin your TEFL teacher training course – Get started on your teacher training course online so that when your programme begins you’ll hit the ground running.
Induction on arrival
- Arriving in China – Guidance and contact information will be given to ensure you arrive smoothly. You’ll be met by your placement host at either the nearest train station or airport.
- Meeting the team – You’ll meet your hosts and the staff that will be there to support you throughout your programme as well as your fellow Gotoco’ers who’ll be joining you on this journey!
- Getting settled & Safety – You’ll be given an induction at the school, as well as specific guidance on what to expect from your time there, what’s expected of you, and who your first points of contact are. You’ll also receive a safety briefing and how to acclimatise to life in China.
Placement in a school
- Teaching – You’ll be joining us for a 2-3 month placement, and will generally be teaching for 16 to 20 hours a week. You’ll plan most of your own classes, giving you the opportunity to hone your lesson planning skills throughout the programme. You’ll usually be teaching oral English, but may teach other subjects (e.g. maths or science) in English instead. Don’t worry – if you’re teaching subjects like maths, the school will make sure the content is well within your grasp!
- Gain invaluable skills & experience – Plan and deliver engaging lessons, developing your skills in public speaking, communication, leadership, and growing your professional confidence.
- Learn the language – Your school will provide some Chinese classes, and both the staff and students at your school will be happy to teach you extra phrases and help you practice what you’ve learned.
- Be immersed in Chinese culture – Wander the streets in your downtime, make friends with the staff at your school or locals in the area, and experience real life in a local city.
End of programme trip
- Five nights in Yangshuo – Relax and explore Yangshuo with your fellow Gotoco’ers, experiencing the former backpacker mecca of China and seeing some of the most beautiful scenery China has to offer.
- Fun cultural activities – Hike through the iconic karst landscape, explore hidden caves, or take a swim in the Li River. For thrill-seekers, try rock climbing in China’s climbing hotspot, or go kayaking and white-water rafting. You can also dive into local culture by cycling through traditional Guangxi villages, trying your hand at fan painting, or doing a hands-on cooking class. Or, if you prefer, simply relax and soak in the breathtaking views. There’s plenty to enjoy!
- Future Plans and Advice – Take the time to reflect on your journey and explore your next steps, whether it’s travelling through China or Asia, pursuing teaching opportunities abroad, or considering other paths. Our team will be available to offer advice and guidance as you think about what steps you wish to take next.
Your Level 5 TESOL qualification
On this programme, you will work up to our Level 5 TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) qualification, regulated by Ofqual—the UK government body responsible for overseeing qualifications.
A Level 5 TESOL qualification is equivalent to a foundation degree and offers more advanced and comprehensive training than the standard 120-hour TEFL course you’ll typically see offered on online courses.
Because your qualification is Ofqual-regulated (unlike 120-hour TEFL courses), it’s internationally recognised and meets the TEFL requirements for EFL teaching roles and visa processes all around the world!
This programme is free to join! That means you don’t pay a fee for your TEFL training and placement as it’s funded through local programme resources.
When joining this programme, You’ll receive for free:
- Level 5 TEFL training and certification
- 3-month teaching placement
- Meals and accommodation
- Cultural activities
- Mandarin lessons
- Personal and community support, including 24/7 support for emergencies.
- Holiday at the end to our stunning base of Yangshuo—the original backpacking town in South China!
When joining the programme, you will need to self-fund:
- Flights/travel to and from the programme
- Visa (approx. £200)
- Travel insurance
- Meals and any extra activities during the end-of-programme trip
- Vaccinations
- DBS check (approx. £18)
- Personal expenditure (e.g. drinks, meals out, etc.) and travel
- SIM card
- VPN (our recommended VPN costs around £5 per month)