You will find out very quickly that teaching English is only one of several jobs you’ll expect to do. As a foreign teacher, in particular, you’ll be asked to do things that go beyond the teaching scope.
Some teachers are more than happy to comply whilst others will simply grin and bear it. This is, after all, part and parcel of teaching in China.
Going to many meetings and often sitting through meetings held solely in Chinese will be expected. Meetings are held about anything. More often than not, you’ll have to attend a meeting to discuss meetings. It’s maddening but, as said, just another part of the job.
You will also be asked to talk with parents daily. If you are Homeroom teacher, this will be a core part of your job but, if you are an ESL teacher you won’t be. Instead, you will still be expected to build relationships with parents but in a less formal way.
Kindergarten teachers are well thought of in Chinese culture, so don’t be surprised if you are revered by some of your parents and receive presents regularly.
The biggest bug-bear of teachers would have to be the paperwork. Just remember that you are going to work in one of the most bureaucratic countries in the world.
Depending on the depth of the paperwork be asked to do reports often. I always wish they focused more on the content of classes rather than paperwork, but ours was not to wonder why! It seems.
As a foreign teacher, you will also be asked to dress up and take part in classroom activities. I loved dressing up as Santa, the Easter bunny and wearing our Halloween costumes at work. Not everyone will enjoy this part of the job, but for me, it was a blast!