A Day in the Life of an English Teacher in China

By Mike ThompsonOct 2, 2023
A Day in the Life of an English Teacher in China

Many aspiring teachers wonder what daily life is like when teaching English in China. Let's walk through a typical day:

  • 7:00 AM: Wake up and enjoy a traditional Chinese breakfast of congee and youtiao at a local street vendor.
  • 8:30 AM: Arrive at the school. Greet colleagues and prepare for the day's lessons.
  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Teach morning classes. This might include a mix of grammar lessons, speaking practice, and fun educational games.
  • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch break. Many teachers use this time to explore local cuisine or practice Mandarin with Chinese colleagues.
  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Afternoon classes or office hours for student consultations and lesson planning.
  • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Free time. Some teachers offer private tutoring, while others use this time to explore their city or engage in hobbies.
  • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Dinner and socializing. Many teachers gather for group dinners, experiencing the vibrant food culture of China.
  • 8:00 PM onwards: Evening activities vary. Some prepare for the next day's lessons, others attend language exchange meetups or explore nightlife.

While every day brings new challenges and experiences, teaching in China offers a perfect blend of professional growth and personal adventure. The reward of seeing your students progress in their English skills makes every day fulfilling.

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