A multiracial couple having fun at a carnival with two children, showing how expat families can seamlessly integrate into the way of living in China.

Living and Working in China

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Living in China

China has a total land area of around 9.6 million square km. Its vast territory stretches from the Central Asia to the Western edge of the Pacific Ocean. The country therefore has a diverse range of climates and regions. The northern cities of Beijing and Tianjin experience particularly cold winters and distinct seasonal climates, whereas the eastern cities of Shanghai and Hangzhou enjoy milder subtropical weather throughout the year.

The skyline of Tianjin with the Yongle Bridge and the Tianjin Eye, showing the vibrant city that foreigners and expats can expect to live and work in if they move to China.

Expat Life in China

Over 600,000 expats live and work in China, attracted by the lifestyle, culture and travel opportunities. Accommodation is good quality and relatively inexpensive, and the convenience of being able to visit shops, restaurants and local parks by foot or via a well-connected transport network is ideal. Travelling between cities or out to the regions is relatively easy with excellent high-speed train networks and inexpensive domestic flights.

Chinese cities have excellent leisure opportunities – leafy parks, art galleries, museums, waterside promenades and running tracks, skyscrapers, glitzy malls and fantastic restaurants and nightlife. There really is something for everyone. China is also extremely safe, making it a very appealing option for single people and families alike. With its convenience, cost of living, and diverse opportunities, China is worth discovering.

The illuminated pavilions at Yuyang Garden displays the modern-day Chinese culture that foreigners looking to live and work in China can experience.

Spoken Languages in China

English is increasingly spoken in the major cities, especially amongst the younger generations. However, it is certainly useful to learn some Chinese. Many of our teachers and staff take Chinese lessons and enjoy learning the language and characters.

China’s Rich History and Culture

Modern-day Chinese culture is still deeply rooted in Confucianism. Its social and ethical philosophies regarding family, unity and harmony are part of the country’s social fabric and way of life. People from all walks of life, including foreigners and expats, will find it easy to integrate into Chinese society. China's cities feature a unique blend of 5,000 years of history alongside modern urban amenities.

The natural landscape and pagoda of West Lake in Hangzhou shows the beautiful scenery that foreigners and expats can explore if they choose to live and work in China.

Cost of Living in China

Even in major Chinese cities like Shanghai and Beijing, living costs are significantly lower than in many other parts of the world. Living in China affords people an enjoyable lifestyle as well as the opportunity to save money for the future.

China is ideally placed for international travel. Generous holidays allow for ample time to visit destinations like Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Philippines, Malaysia, Hawaii and many more.

As a community of more than 5000 people of more than 20 different nationalities, Wellington College China celebrates diversity. Each pupil, parent and staff member are an integral part of our Wellington family.

: Tianjin

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: Shanghai

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: Hangzhou

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: Nantong

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Working in China as a Teacher

China’s education industry is one of the fastest growing in the world. In the last 10 years alone, the international education market has grown substantially due to an increasing demand from Chinese parents for an international and/or bilingual approach to their children’s learning. As a result, there is a growing market for local and international talent to join this thriving industry. Passionate and skilled education professionals will find themselves with plenty of teaching opportunities in China.

Shanghai's skyscrapers along the Huangpu River shows the beautiful city that foreigners and expats get to experience if they choose to live and work in China.

Teaching Opportunities in China

Educators with suitable qualifications (usually a Bachelor's degree and recognised teaching qualification) can work and live in China on a Z visa, which is easily obtainable through a few simple steps. Should you choose to join us, we will provide support and guidance every step of the way.

In our schools, you will find yourself working with passionate and committed students as well as parents with a keen interest in their children’s education. Wellington College China schools have world-class facilities and resources and host exciting events across the year – there is always something happening.

A Wellington College campus building that foreigners and expats may work at if they choose to work and live in China as Wellington College’s teachers.

Achieving Excellence with a Balanced Lifestyle

Our schools produce superb academic results, but the non-academic side is just as important. Sports, drama and the arts are core parts of our offering, with many of our staff taking part as well as well as the students!

Wellington has high standards but promotes a healthy work-life balance. Staff and teachers work hard but have plenty of time to enjoy all that China has to offer in their spare time. Many of our staff find it difficult to leave China once they have lived here for a while. Many stay far longer than they originally planned.

Benefits of Working at Wellington College China

Wellington offers attractive overseas packages for teachers including competitive salary, accommodation, visa costs, medical insurance, joining flights, annual flight allowance, relocation allowance and free schooling. We also offer excellent professional development and career opportunities.

We have schools in Shanghai, Tianjin and Hangzhou. If you would like to know more about our schools, please visit their websites through this link.