TEFL jobs in Hong Kong
A complete guide for TEFL teachers on teaching English in Hong Kong
Overview
Would you like to teach English in Hong Kong, there are a few things to consider! Read this extensive TEFL guide to learn more. Hong Kong was a British colony until 1997. It is now a Chinese Special Administrative Region, but don’t anticipate teaching English in Hong Kong and living here to be anything like life in China. People in Hong Kong speak Cantonese, which is an entirely distinct language from that of mainland China. Hong Kong’s official language is English, which is spoken by just under half of the population, roughly the same proportion of individuals who also speak Mandarin Chinese. If you speak another foreign language, such as French or Spanish, you have a strong chance of being recruited at a prestigious international school in Hong Kong that provides linguistics classes.
Speaking English is a top goal for Hong Kong residents, with some sending their children as young as six months old to classes teaching English in Hong Kong, implying a high need for qualified TEFL teachers. If you would like to teach English in Hong Kong, remember that exam preparation programmes are the most common in the private language school industry, but there are also a lot of business English classes. Make sure to invest in IELTS or advanced grammar preparation courses to earn more. Hong Kong emphasises that English is taught widely from childhood onwards in order to compete effectively on the global stage.
Types of teaching jobs
Private schools
In Hong Kong, the majority of teaching English jobs in Hong Kong are accessible at private language schools. Students of different ages attend these schools, from toddlers to seniors, but the majority are high school students studying for examinations. In addition, international and local chains (such as Berlitz) are well-represented across the city. Also, they offer a lot of opportunities for people wanting to engage the services of an English teacher in Hong Kong.
While English teachers in Hong Kong make up the bulk of foreign teachers, certain private language schools are looking for teachers of other languages, such as Spanish and French. Moreover, learners in this international metropolis with a robust worldwide industry seek a variety of languages.
Public schools
Foreign English teachers working abroad in Hong Kong frequently share the classroom with a local teacher in public schools. The NET (Native English Speakers) Scheme is a government-run programme for foreign instructors that employs competent and experienced foreign English teachers for two years. The goal is to support local teachers and encourage kids to enjoy learning English.
Female teachers are frequently assigned to occupations working with young children, a practice that is neither unlawful nor discriminatory in Hong Kong.
Universities or Colleges
Teachers with significant experience and qualifications may be able to find work in a university or college. However, these are difficult to obtain unless you have prepared for an academic career and already have experience.
A master’s degree and experience are the minimum qualifications, but a PhD is more typically required. In addition, only academically-oriented teachers should apply for English teaching positions at Hong Kong universities or colleges.
International Schools
Hong Kong is a worldwide financial centre with a large expatriate population, many of whom send their children to foreign schools. Teaching employment in foreign schools is not limited to English as a second language; if you are qualified to teach math, physics, or other disciplines, there may be opportunities for you to do so.
Schools follow many worldwide systems, such as in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Non-Hong Kong citizens will make up the majority of students, but not all. One of the most significant advantages of foreign schools is the diversity of their curriculum.
Living costs
Hong Kong continues to be one of the most expensive cities globally. Because rent is so expensive, getting a job teaching English in Hong Kong that includes housing is a huge plus, even if it’s a shared flat. If you need to find a place to live, flat-sharing services like AsiaXpat or GeoExpat can assist you in finding something suitable for your needs. Although there is no shortage of rental housing in Hong Kong, with supply meeting demand, you may discover that the most economical options are cramped and run-down. You can get a better value in the older, less fashionable parts of town. IKEA is the most cost-effective way to equip your apartment, but some rentals may come with what you need to get by.
You won’t face too much cultural shock in Hong Kong. It’s a popular cosmopolitan city where you’ll be able to meet ex-pats from all over the world, yet due to the rapid turnover, anticipate making new friends frequently. Foreign foods and products are readily available, but buying and dining like a native will provide the best value for money. In addition, Hong Kong boasts a vibrant nightlife, a diverse range of outdoor activities, excellent public transportation, and cuisine that many Westerners find far more approachable than mainland Chinese cuisine.
Key facts
Language: Cantonese and English
Population: 7.5 Million
Currency: Hong Kong Dollar
Capital: Victoria
TEFL job demand: High
Our TEFL rating: 4
Popular locations for TEFL jobs
Hong Kong is both a country and a city–positions available across Hong Kong.
The average salary for EFL teachers
The basic monthly salary for full-time positions is likely to be in the region of HK$16,000 to HK$65,000 (€1,750-€7,200) per month. HK$100–$550 (€11-€61) per teaching hour for freelance work.
TEFL qualification requirements
A 120-hour TEFL certificate is the minimum for most positions.
Prerequisite university degree
A bachelor’s degree is required for work visas. International schools, universities, or specialized positions may require an MA, PGCE, or PhD.
Term times
School year typically starts in August.
Teaching programmes
Private Language Schools, Public Schools, Universities, Kindergarten, International Schools, Freelance, Voluntary teaching positions are all available.
Age restrictions
Most positions have a maximum age of 60, though some private schools are more flexible.
Previous teaching experience
1–2 years of experience increases chances of securing a position, especially in private and international schools.
Key Points
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Got Questions?
Get clear answers about TEFL courses, certification, teaching jobs, and everything in between.
To teach English in Hong Kong, most schools will require you to have a bachelor’s degree and either TEFL/CELTA certification or prior teaching experience. Working with a volunteer organisation, on the other hand, can provide classroom experience without a degree.
The average salary for teachers of English in Hong Kong is HK$18,000 – HK$80,000 which is approximately €2,100 – €9,300 depending on the type of teaching job.
Hong Kong is one of the world’s most expensive cities, consistently ranking among the top three globally. Housing is the largest expense, so securing a teaching job that includes accommodation or a housing allowance can make a huge difference to your budget. To get the most value for your money, embrace local living by shopping at markets and dining at local eateries rather than frequenting international restaurants. Hong Kong’s efficient public transport system also helps keep daily costs manageable, making it possible to enjoy the city despite its high cost of living.
Teaching positions are available throughout Hong Kong, ranging from busy city districts to quieter neighbourhoods, allowing you to choose a setting that best suits your lifestyle.