Quick answer: Global English graduate Erin Levant has taught in Hong Kong for four years, from a local primary school and kindergarten to training local teachers. She found her TESOL certificate opened doors - it's well respected by Hong Kong employers - and that an agency helped match her to the right schools. Her advice: get a recognised qualification, embrace the mix of East and West, and enjoy the enthusiasm of Hong Kong students. Here's her story.
We asked Global English TESOL graduate Erin Levant about teaching English in Hong Kong and how she secured some of the most rewarding teaching contracts there over four years. Thinking about the government NET Scheme too? Start with our 6-step guide to the EDB NET Scheme.
Can you tell us about yourself?
Erin: I grew up in a small town in New Hampshire, in the United States, where there are more cows than people! I learned to love classic literature in English and other languages, and continued my education at George Washington University in Washington, DC, where I earned my degree in Spanish Language Literature. After completing my postgraduate teaching certification, I taught in Texas and the United Arab Emirates before settling with my husband in Hong Kong. This July marks my fourth year teaching here.
How did the TESOL course help your career in Hong Kong?
Erin: The Global English TESOL programme opened me up to a wide range of teaching options in Hong Kong. The certificate is considered heavily by Hong Kong employers and the Global English name is highly respected. Adding the TESOL endorsement to my resume proved a very smart decision - I'm now considering multiple teaching positions for the coming academic year. If you're just starting out, the 120-hour course and the 10-hour Hong Kong teaching practice are built with Hong Kong applicants in mind.
What has your experience of teaching in Hong Kong been like?
Erin: Hong Kong students are loyal, loving and immensely curious. I've taught students from age 2 to 13, and they've all impressed me with their work ethic and enthusiasm. Hong Kong is a very friendly city for expats and a wonderful mix of East and West - when I'm not teaching, there's no shortage of cultural, culinary and sightseeing opportunities. I've had the chance to teach at a local primary school and kindergarten through a company called Eureka, who've done a phenomenal job of matching me with schools and consulting opportunities that fit my skill set while challenging me. Most recently they gave me the opportunity to train local teachers, which was wonderfully rewarding.
Thank you, Erin! We hope you enjoy many more happy years in Hong Kong.
Teaching in Hong Kong FAQs
Is a TESOL certificate worth it for teaching in Hong Kong?
Yes. Hong Kong employers weigh an accredited TESOL/TEFL qualification heavily, and it's a requirement for the government NET Scheme. As Erin found, a recognised certificate opens doors to a wide range of roles - from kindergartens and primary schools to teacher training - and strengthens your position when negotiating contracts.
Should I use an agency to find teaching work in Hong Kong?
Many teachers do. Agencies match you to schools that fit your experience and can streamline the job search, interviews and paperwork, which is helpful when you're new to the city. You can also apply centrally through the EDB NET Scheme or directly to schools - a recognised qualification helps with all three routes.
Next steps. If Hong Kong appeals, you may also like to:
- Read our ten FAQs on becoming a NET in Hong Kong.
- Explore our full guide to teaching English in Hong Kong.
- Hear more Global English graduates talk about living and working in Hong Kong, and watch the latest video from Eureka teachers below.