Who is the audience? 

The assignments are delivered to Chinese teachers of English, and to teachers of other subject areas. Most of these teachers have good language skills but few chances to use them outside of the classroom. The assignments are to provide meaningful listening and speaking opportunities as well as information about Canadian culture and teaching methodology.

What does ChinaConnection2018 project provide?

It provides participants with a unique professional growth and travel opportunity.

It provides experienced leadership.

It provides in-servicing, where there is a need, to prepare participants for the work, the culture and the trip.

It provides guidance on how to prepare your personal user-friendly curriculum and tips for additional resources to meet the needs of the Canadian and Chinese teachers.

What do the Chinese provide?

  • The Jiangsu Provincial Department of Education provides our project participants with transportation, accommodation, food and sight-seeing within Jiangsu province.
  • Accommodations are comfortable but rarely fancy. Each participant will have a single air-conditioned room with Western bathroom facilities.
  • There will also be access to the internet and email.
  • An English speaking assistant will work with each group as a guide and liaison.
  • In most non-English subject areas a qualified translator is available.
  • In 2019, participants received an honorarium of 7000 RMB for each course taught.  The exchange rate fluctuates, 5000RMB is approximately $960.00 Canadian.

What do participants have to provide?

  • Each participant pays for their transportation to and from China, and any travel beyond Jiangsu province. Each participant must have a valid passport and a visa. Participants are required to have proof of medical and travel insurance and may also need vaccinations. Participants must be in good health. Participants must be younger than 65 years of age.

What are the dates of this years’ project?

Firm Dates for 2024 will be available as of mid-December 2023. See Dates & Deadlines pages.

Who is accepted for the project?

Educators who are flexible, friendly, able to work with others in a harmonious way and who are open to the unfamiliar are best suited to the project. Participants need to be sober, mature and professional, and in excellent health. Previous travel experience beyond North America is an asset. Teaching experience in any subject area is suitable. ESL experience is useful but not required.  References will be contacted. Applicants must be 65 or younger.

I’m retired. Am I eligible?

Yes. This is a great opportunity to combine your years of teaching experience with a desire to travel and experience another culture. Applicants must be 65 or younger.

I’m a new teacher. Can I apply?

This is a memorable professional development opportunity with travel for teachers with a minimum of 3 years of teaching experience. This project gives you insight into the challenges ESL learners experience.

Should I request 2 or 4 weeks?

The program is intense and after teaching for 10 months the two week session is usually long enough for a first timer. There are many 2-week placements available each year.
Four-week assignments are very few. The course is repeated at a second site so a change of venue is involved.

My friend and I want to go together. Can we be in the same group?

Absolutely. Friends can teach at the same site if space and the given subject area are available.

Can I bring my spouse and children so they can experience China too?

Only qualified educators can participate in the project. Family members can join you in China before or after your teaching session for sightseeing and travel.

Should I use a travel agent?

You are strongly urged to make travel arrangements through a travel agent. It is imperative that each participant arrives at the right airport on the right day with the correct documentation and visa. A professional travel agent will ensure that you get to and from China even if there are weather delays, missed connections or lost luggage. It is best not to make your own flight arrangements on the internet for this particular trip.

I am not sure yet. Who can I talk to?

You can be put in touch with previous participants who would be willing to talk to you about their experiences.

How much will it cost?

Project participants can expect to pay about $2000+ for airfare to and from Jiangsu province plus the required entry visa. Airfares vary by which airline is used, which route is selected, when the ticket is purchased as well as the day of departure and return. There are additional costs which vary from person to person for travel and medical insurance. There is also an application fee of $120.00 for new applicants, and $85.00 for returning participants. All participants must have a passport which does not expire before February 2025.

I don’t speak Chinese. How will I manage?

You can quickly learn to say “hello”, “goodbye”and “thank you” in Mandarin. No additional Chinese language skills are required. All lessons are conducted in English and your students will be capable English speakers. Many non-English classes have a qualified translators. Also, an English speaking assistant is provided to each group to assist you in class and to help you navigate the city where you are working.

I still have questions. Where can I get answers?

Go to the Contact Us page and send us an email inquiry.

I want to be considered for the project. How do I apply?

For an application form go to the Contact Us page.