Teaching Jobs in Shanghai, China

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with International TEFL Academy
20 Teaching Jobs in Shanghai
Premier TEFL
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China offers some of the highest demand for English teachers in the world—making it one of the best places to start your TEFL career. With an accredited 120-hour TEFL course, you’ll gain the skills and certification needed to access teaching roles across China. Designed for beginners, this programm
Weihai Chuanyue Cultural Exchange Co., Ltd.
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Come to China and gain valuable experience teaching English! We are seeking enthusiastic native English speakers from the UK, US, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, and Australia to join our exciting ESL teaching program in China's vibrant major cities. This is your chance to make a lasting impact on y
TravelGrad
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Your safe and supported route to teaching in China! See it with your own eyes and jump-start your post-uni life alongside a group of adventurous grads through our 10-month China Teaching Experience program. China is an obvious choice for adventure-seeking grads looking for something truly di
Flying English Shanghai
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Flying English offers ideal opportunities for enthusiastic and bubbly candidates! Join our Teaching in China program as an English Second-Language Teacher, starting in late 2026. This opportunity allows you to engage with young learners aged 3 to 12 in the vibrant Huangpu District of Shanghai, conv
Teach & Play
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Don’t get trapped! Did you know that 80% of teaching jobs in China require evening and weekend work? Not us! For Teach & Play, football (soccer), a fantastic social life, and incredible memories come first. All our jobs are football-friendly, meaning you’ll never work on weekends or in the evenings
Shanghai Meiji Culture Communications Co.,Ltd
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We are looking for 2 native English-speaking Kindergarten Teachers (female) who can start ASAP! Location: Shanghai (Lingang) International School Nearest Metro: Line 16, Dishui Lake Station (10-min drive) Working Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Age Group: 2-5 years old Contract: 24 month
See All 13 ProgramsYohoo International Culture Exchange
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Join Yohoo Au Pair China for a meaningful cultural exchange experience with a carefully screened Chinese host family. This program is designed for applicants aged 18-28 who want to live in China, study Mandarin, experience local family life, and share their language and culture with children in a wa
English 1
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Teach English Overseas with Full Training, Visa Sponsorship & Career Support Looking for a stable, full-time job abroad where you can teach English, gain international experience, and receive professional training- even if you’ve never taught before? English 1 is recruiting entry-level English tea
A Guide to Teaching Abroad in Shanghai
What Else You Need to Know
Teaching English is certainly one of the more popular types of teaching jobs in Shanghai, especially suited for native English speakers. In fact the majority of contracted teaching job in Shanghai are for positions that require teachers to teach English as a second language, which may or may not require some basic Mandarin language skills.
Private schools in Shanghai are always looking to hire foreign teachers to expand the educational opportunities they can provide for students. If you would like to teach in Shanghai, but prefer smaller class sizes (and more money), then your best bet is to look into teaching jobs at private institutions. The drawback, however, is that schools like this are often specialized, and you likely won’t have as much choice in subject. Many private schools in Shanghai are focused on English language immersion.
Public schools tend to offer teaching jobs in Shanghai less frequently. Public schools will have much larger class sizes, sometimes up to 60 students. You are likely to see a wider range of subjects taught in public institutions, but these schools will often require that teachers have a degree in the field they wish to teach or a teaching license. However, one of the advantages of landing a teaching job at a public school in Shanghai is a greater number of paid vacation days.
Life in Shanghai for ESL Teachers
Roughly 14.5 million people live in Shanghai, which means you’ll hardly ever be alone. One thing you should be more than prepared for before teaching in Shanghai are the crowds. Don’t expect to have a lot of room and be prepared for a great deal of smog and noise on a day to day basis.
On the other hand, one of the great advantages of living and teaching abroad in Shanghai is the high level of safety. Violent crime in Shanghai is relatively low, for such a large city; petty crime, like pickpocketing, credit card fraud, and financial scams, are most common.
Given the population, driving or navigating the streets of Shanghai by foot can be rather overwhelming. However, the city has a fairly reliable public transportation system. It can be confusing at first, but with time, you’ll get accustomed to the routes and times, and how to cross the street.
GoAbroad's Inside Scoop
Learning. You are certain to learn a critical amount about China’s government and economy while teaching abroad in Shanghai. This knowledge and understanding of a country that is becoming a world superpower will no doubt shape your perspective on the global marketplace and be useful in many different future career paths.
Language. As China continues to expand its international diplomatic and economic ties, Mandarin is becoming a more and more useful language, so teachers should take advantage of any immersion opportunities they have during their teaching job in Shanghai. In general, employers in any field will see Mandarin proficiency as a great asse
Smog. Pollution is a very real problem in China and you will probably be taken aback by how bad the smog in Shanghai really is. But, if you learn to deal with it, you’re sure to find a fascinating culture, history, and people behind the hazy skies.
Read our comprehensive guide on teaching abroad in China.
Latest Program Reviews
Outstanding Place to Work
May 16, 2025by: Jacob Turner - United StatesMaybe the best job I've ever had. Everyone is treated with care and respect. They are so accommodating and helpful to those coming to a foreign place. You are challenged to an appropriate level and in a way that improves your professional and personal performance. The entire unit works together as a team brilliantly to maximize everybody's ability.
Experience of a lifetime and it's only just begun!
December 31, 2023by: Niamh McMullan - IrelandProgram: China Teaching Experience
I cannot speak highly enough about TravelGrad. They have made what is usually a very daunting and complicated process, seamless. Any query or doubt that I had prior to coming to China was answered, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure there was no unnecessary panic or stress before making what has been one of the most life-changing decisions I've made to date and I couldn't be more grateful to them for that. The team at TravelGrad are like no other. What they offer is unique in that they offer 24/7 support and guidance that doesn't stop when you set foot off the plane. The team regularly check in to ensure of your wellbeing and go out of their way to help where possible. This alone has made settling in a whole lot easier. TravelGrad is not simply a company, but has become family out here in China. The people I have met through TravelGrad have quickly become some of my closest friends and to have that comfort so far from home has been invaluable. Although I have only been here for a little over 4 months, what I have experienced within such a short period of time has been incredible. I can't wait to discover what's next, the opportunities are endless and it's all thanks to TravelGrad for making it possible. Personally I believe, when it comes to teaching abroad, you needn't look further than TravelGrad.
Best year so far...!
December 29, 2023by: MaisieProgram: China Teaching Experience
Since the beginning Travelgrad have been so supportive, Andrew did everything to ensure that I arrived in China smoothly and on time. It's been a blast since I arrived and I can safely say I will be here for longer than originally planned. After arriving in China, contact with Travelgrad didn't end either. Andrew has been in touch multiple time to ensure that everything is going well since getting to China.
The experience has been amazing so far!
December 28, 2023by: Khalil Jefferies - EnglandProgram: China Teaching Experience
Overall experience has been outstanding so far and I do not regret the decision to move abroad one bit. TravelgradUK definitely helped me with the process and getting everything set up before moving out to China It all still seems pretty surreal but so far, the job has been great, the location is amazing and the people I have met out here are so nice and friendly Everyone came alone but what made the process easier was that we all went and applied via TravelGrad and before arrival, we were all added into sociable group chats on WhatsApp where we could interact and get to know each other beforehand This for sure made the move a lot easier. 10/10 recommend TravelGrad for anyone looking at making a move to teach abroad!
A new experience worth trying!
December 28, 2023by: Lennon Cook - United KingdomProgram: China Teaching Experience
I had an exceptional experience with Travelgrad while pursuing my dream of teaching abroad in China. Their dedicated team went above and beyond to ensure a smooth process. From the initial inquiry to the moment I landed in China, Travelgrad provided unwavering support. Their knowledgeable staff guided me through the entire process, offering valuable insights into visa requirements, cultural nuances, and logistical details. Their attention to detail eased any concerns I had about moving to a new country. What sets Travelgrad apart is their personalised approach. They took the time to understand my needs and concerns. The assistance in securing a teaching position was particularly impressive. They connected me with their reputable Chinese counterparts. Throughout my adventure, Travelgrad remained a reliable companion. Their commitment was evident in the prompt responses to my queries and proactive communication. The pre-departure orientation they provided proved invaluable, preparing me for the cultural transition and making me feel more confident about the exciting journey ahead. Thanks to Travelgrad, my experience teaching in China surpassed my expectations. I wholeheartedly recommend this travel company to anyone seeking not only a company that facilitates the logistics but also invests in the personal and professional growth of their aspiring teachers.
2 countries in 2 years :)
December 28, 2023by: Sophie Lee - United KingdomProgram: China Teaching Experience
I went to South Korea in 2022-23 and am currently in China, teaching English. I had no previous experience with teaching until moving across the world and going for it. Lots of my experiences haven't been part of any plan, just little decisions one after the other. I'm enjoying my life, possibilities and opportunities as well as now having the luxury of time to figure out what I want to do. From late nights turning into early mornings partying, to tasting new and delicious foods, learning languages and cultures, meeting new people from all over the world. Heartwarmth and heartbreak, bittersweetness. Moving abroad makes me feel like I'm really alive and living, rather than being a zombie in the same little village I've always known in the uk. I'm very grateful for travel grad for making these precious experiences and memories possible.
Loving life in China!
December 27, 2023by: Daniel RiceProgram: China Teaching Experience
During the preparation process, TravelGrad offered guidance along every step of the way. Whether it was reminding me of deadlines, offering general advice, simplifying the visa application process, etc. TravelGrad was always there. Andrew of TravelGrad in touch with me every single week during the application process and was available for contact every single day of the week. TravelGrad also created a group where applicants were able to get to know each other before they landed in China. Overall, I'd describe my experience with TravelGrad as overwhelmingly positive and wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone looking to teach abroad!
You learn about yourself and the world.
December 27, 2023by: Megan KroegerProgram: China Teaching Experience
I was hesitant to do this whole experience, at first. I was nervous about completely uplifting my life and moving halfway around the world to a place I knew little about. What was comforting to know, was having a supportive company to help and be there. TravelGrad put me in contact with their partner company in China and they helped with everything to get started. They helped me get a school, find an apartment, and helped with all the visa applications and paperwork once in China as well. Once the school year started, they were there with training and guidance to make the experience and job as good as can be. I have learned a lot about myself through this experience. It’s a scary thing but worth it. The kids make it worth it.
China in october 2022
December 27, 2023by: Charlotte BellProgram: China Teaching Experience
I successfully arrived in Shenzhen in October 2022 with Travelgrad. At the time China had strict Covid entry regulations but Travelgrad were very helpful and supportive, as well as realistic about the situation. They kept in regular contact and made the whole process as straightforward as possible. Although it wasn’t easy, I felt very well informed and supported throughout it all. Travelgrad also made sure I was put in contact with other teachers arriving in Shenzhen at the same time so I have settled in well. I am glad I went to Shenzhen with Travelgrad and would recommend them. Pros & Cons: Great Communication, Straightforward process. Cons: None
Great program, super helpful & easy
December 27, 2023by: Nikki WickhamProgram: China Teaching Experience
The travelgrad program helped me go to and teach in China. They were super helpful throughout the entire process, answering any and all question, no matter how silly they seemed. They made the whole process super easy, and continued their support the whole time whilst I was in China. They took on board exactly whereabouts in China I wanted to live in, and what age groups I wanted to teach, and set me up with the perfect school. And when I wanted to move to the other side of the country for a year, they were super accommodating and helped find a great school for me to move to. I also met some of my closest friends through this program. Everyone you meet is so nice and I've definitely made some lifelong friends through this program. I'm so appreciative to travelgrad, and everyone who was there for me both before and during my time in China. Pros & Cons: Pros: Easy process, Super helpful throughout, Made great, lifelong friends. Cons: None
Travelgrad set me up for life
December 07, 2023by: BenjaminProgram: China Teaching Experience
Isn't it funny how one decision can wholly alter one's life? At the end of my university life, I had already secured an internship in my chosen profession. However, working there felt like a chore, and I wondered if I had made the right choice with my chosen degree. I decided to take a gap year to figure it all out, and I had heard of TravelGrad through a friend. So, without hesitation, I decided to go to China just for a year to teach English, have some exciting experiences, and, in the end, return to 'real life.' Well, I couldn't have predicted at the time how life-changing that decision was to be. I had discovered a career which was wholly more fulfilling than the 9-5 I had left behind in Britain. I had fallen in love, not only with the teaching but also with a fellow English teacher. We are now married with children, and it has been seven years since I have lived in Britain. My 'just a gap year' turned into an exciting life. I have been all over the world, opened my own school, and branched out into marketing. The TravelGrad journey continues for me, and I will always be grateful to them for making it an easy first step into the great beyond. Where do I go from here? Only time will tell. Pros & Cons: Pros: Great Adventure, Great Support,Great Deal. Cons: None
Amazing experience
May 25, 2023by: LibbyProgram: China Teaching Experience
I was in my final year of University, I had 6 months left of student life before graduation and a lot of my friends had already found graduate jobs and knew what they would be doing come July, or they at least had some sort of plan. To put it bluntly, I was terrified. I didn’t want to have nothing, I felt like I needed some sort of idea or plan. I’d always wanted to do a Masters, but finding funding for a Masters in theatre in near impossible, and years ago I’d seen an advert for teaching abroad in Asia, so I decided to have a look (it was also a form of procrastination to avoid dissertation work), a girl can dream right? I googled around and via my University careers website, stumbled upon an advertisement from TravelGrad, China Teaching Experience. After scoping out other offers, I realised that TravelGrad was offering the best deal cost-wise and that you got the same deal as other companies, but could pay a whole lot less! I applied online and one day later had an email offering a skype interview. A week later I was sat nervously on Skype waiting to have a short interview with Andrew. I guess my theatre degree did something for helping me act confident and convincing him, as a few days after the call, I had a confirmation email offering me a place! A couple of drinks at the pub to celebrate and tell friends were in order! Fast forward to mid-August, all of the paperwork was completed, I had received my Visa and on the same day it arrived, sat and booked flights for two days later, and put up a quick Facebook post to tell people I was leaving in two days! Three days later I met Andrew at Beijing airport, then spent two weeks meeting all the other people with the company, some who would be in the same city as me, and doing a two week intense teaching week with some summer school students to complete the practical side of my TEFL qualification. As crazy and stressful as it was, being thrown into the deep end was the best thing because it meant I had to get involved straight away and just go for it, no time for being scared! All too soon, those two weeks were up and it was time to get on a bullet train (400mph!) for 9hours to travel all the way to Guangzhou! Myself and the three other teachers were collected by our school, taken for a meal, and shown to our new apartments (in the Teachers Dormitory at the school) to settle in and get some sleep, ready to be up and out by 10am the next day to be shown around Foshan! We settled in pretty fast, manage to figure out what buses went where, where the good places to eat were, how to work the metro, we’ve even become so localised that we now own travel cards that we use on the buses and metro and just top up when needed. Luckily Foshan and Guangzhou are so close to Hong Kong and Macau you can go for a day or weekend trip and just enjoy yourself! I’ve also become so used to the stares and sly photos being taken that I’m pretty much immune to it now. So many Chinese people must have photos of me or selfies with me on their phones it’s so strange to think about! A month after being in Foshan, there was a public holiday for one week, and I managed to get the guts to go traveling a little bit! I headed to Guilin with some fellow teachers. I managed to successfully work the Chinese train online booking system, and we spent an amazing 3 days in Guilin and YangShuo. We travelled, saw pagodas, rice fields, traditional Chinese villages (a drastic change from the city life we had become used to!) and explored the Karst mountains via a tiny boat made up of 6 long plastic tubes tied together, a motor, and some wooden seats. That was an experience to say the least! Since then I’ve gotten pretty confident, the students and teaching on a whole is less scary, and I’ve been having Chinese lessons to slowly pick it up! I’m nowhere near fluent yet, but it’s a big improvement. Conversations so far are a big the easiest, and reading menu’s in Chinese and is tricky so I usually order what I already know how to say, or point to the pictures. But hey, Chinese is the hardest language in the world, and it’s only been short amount of time so I’m doing pretty ok! It’s safe to say I’ve fallen in love with China. People ask what it’s like, and quite frankly, it’s almost impossible to describe. It’s just a different world out here! I miss my family and friends, but after a while you start to forget and just settle in to life out here. There are times when you’ll get huge feelings of homesickness. Christmas out here is pretty hard, being so far away from family was horrible, but I take it as a chance to travel and distract myself with seeing friends in other cities or exploring new places. Its currently mid-March, and I can’t believe how fast time has gone! In two weeks I’ll even be on Chinese TV judging at an Oral English competition! In a way, I don’t want to leave, I could stay forever! But I know that if I stay for too many years then I will never leave, and I’ve other experiences to chase! Teaching in China was an experience that I never expected to affect me in so many ways, nor this much. I’ve made friends that will be friends for life, and memories that I will never forget. It’s been months of adventures, and I’m certain there’s plenty more to come!


China teaching experience - TravelGrad
May 11, 2023by: BlerimProgram: China Teaching Experience
If I had to explain my China Teaching Experience, I wouldn't need to think long about it. This experience was the best of my life, professionally and personally. When I contacted Travelgrad for the first time, I doubted if my questIons would be answered. Surprisingly, the company owner was very helpful and informative during the process; from the interview until I got the visa, he helped me in every step. Even after I went to China, Andrew regularly contacted me if everything was going well with my job and needed any support, making this company unique to me. Their support and professionalism made me feel at home in a big, foreign country like China. I gained so much professionally; working in another country was very valuable for me, once in a lifetime experience. I also had the chance to visit other Asian countries, making the whole adventure more special. So, if you think which is the best company you should choose for your teaching experience in China or other countries in Asia, undoubtedly I would suggest Travelgrad, they are the best in the market. Pros & Cons: Pros: Professional Growth, Travelling Asia. Cons: None

Life changing
March 18, 2023by: Andrew RobertsonProgram: China Teaching Experience
I took the opportunity to go with TravelGrad for the China Teaching Experience a few years ago on a complete whim. Because it was last minute, the visa process had to be done as quickly as possible and from the start, TravelGrad were massively supportive in the process so I knew I was in good hands. I moved to China knowing absolutely nothing about what I was getting into but the staff were extremely welcoming. On arriving at my placement in GuiZhou province I was well looked after and though certain things took some getting used to, I went in with an open mind and learned to enjoy the cultural differences. The food was amazing there, though really spicy, the language was fascinating, though very difficult, and the work was satisfying, though sometimes challenging (who doesn't want to be challenged). I had the best social life I have ever had before, saw incredible sights and just overall came to love the country. I had an awesome 2 years which literally 180d my career path and on moving back home, decided to become a fully qualified teacher. From the experience I was given I wanted to see more of the world and have since moved abroad again. I don't know what the future holds for me but the temptation to move back to China and see what else it has to offer is extremely strong. Thanks so much TravelGrad, I'll genuinely, always be grateful.
Truly the best employer I've been with
March 14, 2023by: Kevin Leung - United StatesI'm in my 3rd contract with Flying English, and it's been amazing to be a part of this family. Everyone here is treated with respect, and our opinions are valued. The management here supports us greatly in training, teaching-related matters, and also with things outside of school, such as sending us supplies and helping with personal matters, making sure we're all well taken care of during the lockdowns. From managing the day-to-day, to issues from the covid pandemic, I think their actions speak volumes with regard to their teaching/management philosophy, which translates to improved quality of teaching for the students and a great experience for the teachers. Like many others entering a new country and field, I believe a bad first experience will turn the passion for teaching sour, while a good experience would provide the energy and fuel to continue forward. And Flying English, definitely belongs in the latter half here. My overall experience here is nothing short of excellent, and I highly recommend this school, especially for those looking for new beginnings teaching English in Shanghai.
Truly an unforgettable experience
March 01, 2021by: Tina Zeng - United StatesWhen I graduated from university, I really wanted to indulge in something different. I knew teaching English abroad could be that 'different' that I needed, but the process for finding a school to work for was grueling. I went through so many interviews (yes, even the shady ones) and none of them felt right until I interviewed with Flying English. It was clear that our values aligned and that they had my best interest in mind. After the call, I knew this was the school for me. Being able to teach with Flying English has been one of the most fulfilling experiences I've ever had. It was an opportunity that really nurtured my growth. I feel extremely fortunate that I was able to find a school that really cares about their employees. They go out of their way to provide you with all the resources you need to make your transition into Shanghai seamless. I felt reassured knowing that I had this kind of support. In addition, all the other teachers and teaching assistants were amazing to work with. It felt like a family. Since it's a smaller school, you're really able to cultivate more meaningful and personable connections with everyone, including your students. These intimate learning environments allowed me to understand my students individually, which made my job that much more fulfilling. Flying English has offered me so many wholesome and rewarding experiences. I would recommend this school to anyone in a heartbeat.
Fantastic experience
February 01, 2021by: Rhiannon Thomas - United KingdomI came to China in 2018 to do the TEFL course. Immediately after finishing I was offered the job at Flying English. I didn’t know much about the school at the beginning but I ended up staying two years. My colleagues became my closest friends and I learnt so much about teaching as I went along. I acquired wonderful students who I thoroughly enjoyed teaching. I’d 100% recommend this school to anyone who’s thinking about joining.

Home in Shanghai
February 07, 2018by: LauraAfter moving to Shanghai to get my TEFL certification, I was unsure how to continue my time and teaching in the city. Working at Flying English was flexible and provided the support I needed to make a living, make friends and connections, and explore teaching! Everyone was so welcoming and excited, and will help you in any way you might need. The students all have a place in my heart and I can't imagine my experience anywhere else. If you are looking for a family and a place to grow and teach in Shanghai, look no further!
One of the best training schools to work at
February 07, 2018by: Debra Ma - ChinaFlying is one of the best English schools to work at. Everyone has tried their best to be welcoming and helpful, even outside of work. I've gotten help with housing negotiations, delivery, bills, and even basic phone calls from my coworkers and my boss. Everyone is also passionate about making sure that the students learn as much as possible, without any gimmicks. There's a real sense of bonding here since the staff is smaller. The staff is also well connected, if one is interested in networking. Of the training school teachers I've talked to, the ones at Flying have consistently been the happiest. I feel pretty fortunate to be working here, and would suggest it to anyone interested and qualified.
Dream job
February 06, 2018by: Winnie - United StatesAbsolutely love the environment here at Flying English. After spontaneously moving to Shanghai, I realized what better than to pursue my childhood dream of becoming a teacher. Anna and John helped guide in the right direction for where to live, what to do, and helped me better understand the culture. My colleagues are now my closest friends and we learn from each other every day. I've been here for nearly 2 years now and I don't plan on leaving any time soon.
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