Quick answer: Two Global English graduates - a couple with English-teaching experience in China - applied for the Hong Kong NET Scheme together. They chose our 250-hour Level 5 TEFL diploma because it meets the requirements for both primary and secondary schemes, secured interviews on their first attempt, and are now reapplying with a clearer understanding of the process. Their advice: use your tutors, prepare thoroughly, and be persistent - NET places are competitive but the salary, allowances and lifestyle make it worth it.
A shared passion for teaching and making a difference in students' lives recently led two Global English TESOL graduates to embark on an exciting new journey together. After months of research, preparation and study, they applied for the esteemed NET Scheme in Hong Kong. The couple, who spoke to Global English, have English-teaching experience in China but come from diverse professional backgrounds, with some of their previous work quite different from education. New to the scheme yourself? Our 6-step guide to the EDB NET Scheme maps out the whole journey.
Why did they choose the NET Scheme?
For them, the NET Scheme stood out for its structured support for English teachers and the chance to be part of an esteemed educational initiative with a progressive mindset. Asked what inspired them to teach in Hong Kong, they spoke about the vibrant culture, dynamic education system and the opportunity to work with a diverse student population. Having loved their time in mainland China, they found some aspects of life there challenging, and Hong Kong offered an appealing next step.
How did they prepare for the NET Scheme application?
The couple discovered Global English TESOL while researching the best routes to gain their teaching qualifications. They were drawn to Global English for its variety of courses and excellent reputation among aspiring teachers, seeking a programme that would equip them to succeed in a competitive environment.
Which is the best TESOL course for the Hong Kong NET Scheme?
They chose the 250-hour diploma-level TEFL qualification because it meets the requirements for both the primary and secondary NET Schemes. They also valued the support from real, experienced tutors rather than automated responses. They found the practical teaching strategies and classroom-management techniques especially helpful, and really enjoyed the applied-linguistics element, which gave them the confidence and skills to thrive in a real classroom.
They noted that Global English's preparation played a crucial role in helping them secure interviews for the scheme, even though they didn't get the job on the first attempt. Teaching positions - particularly within the NET Scheme - are highly competitive, and through the process they learned the importance of persistence, preparation and presenting themselves effectively. Now, with a better understanding of it all, they are considering reapplying for the NET Scheme next year. Their advice to prospective students is to take full advantage of the resources and support that Global English TESOL provides.
What are the benefits of the Hong Kong NET Scheme?
The benefits - professional development and cultural-exchange opportunities among them - aligned perfectly with their career goals. Here's a snapshot of what NET teachers can expect:
- Competitive salary: generally higher than average teaching salaries in many other countries, on the government pay scale.
- Special allowances: including a housing allowance to help with accommodation, which is particularly valuable given Hong Kong's high living costs.
- Work-life balance: reasonable working hours and ample time to explore the vibrant city and its surroundings.
- Healthcare benefits: comprehensive health insurance, ensuring access to quality healthcare during your stay.
Planning the move? Read the current UK government foreign travel advice for Hong Kong and explore life as a teacher in Hong Kong.
What can you learn from their application?
Even though they weren't placed on their first attempt, this couple's experience holds practical lessons for anyone applying:
- Choose a course that covers both routes. The 250-hour diploma satisfies the primary and secondary requirements, so you keep your options open.
- Use your tutors. Real, experienced tutor feedback on lesson plans and self-evaluations is what prepares you for the interview and demo lesson.
- Expect competition. Securing an interview is an achievement in itself; not being placed first time is common, so plan to reapply.
- Apply early. With selection concentrated in February and March, finish your qualification in good time rather than rushing before the deadline.
Hong Kong NET Scheme FAQs
What qualifications does the Hong Kong NET Scheme require?
You'll need native or near-native English, a bachelor's degree, and an EDB-recognised TEFL/TESOL qualification with observed teaching practice - at least 100 contact hours for primary or 250 for secondary. Secondary applicants usually also hold a PGCE or equivalent. This couple chose the 250-hour diploma precisely because it covers both the primary and secondary routes.
How much do NET teachers earn in Hong Kong?
NET salaries follow the government Master Pay Scale, so pay depends on your qualifications and experience. Primary teachers typically start around HK$31,750 a month (roughly £3,000) and secondary teachers higher, plus allowances for rental, medical cover and passage. Always confirm the current scale on the EDB recruitment pages before you apply.
Thinking of applying with your partner or a friend? Take it from this couple: lean on your tutors, prepare properly, and don't be discouraged if you're not placed first time. Get started with the Hong Kong NET teaching practice and our ten FAQs on becoming a NET.