Teacher Testimonials
Testimonial from an Aston English Teacher in China
"Teaching at Aston was such an enjoyable time. I was a little nervous coming to a different country at first. Living in China took some adjustment, and you're bound to run into some problems. But the Chinese staff can be most helpful, and are willing to go above and beyond to make your life comfortable. They'll help you adjust to your new city, help with your living arrangements, and teach mandarin. And if you feel you still need some help, there's always a capable and reliable, native English speaking staff whom you can fall back on. Plus, you'll see how fun, adorable, and hilarious your students can be, which can always brighten your day. Once you talk to foreigners and teachers from other schools in China, you'll quickly realize how good you have it in Aston."
Vincent
Aston Zibo, 2008
"My first placement in China was in a middle school in Guangzhou. I really hated having to teach large classes with no curriculum and varying levels of ability. I had a real crisis of confidence and thought I was a bad teacher because my students weren't learning anything. Then I applied to Aston to do a Summer intensive and never looked back! I have worked in 2 Aston locations, Guiyang and Yinchuan and have had positive experiences in both. The material for all my classes was provided and all my students were grouped into the same level, so it was easy to teach. I also made many friends and experienced China in a way that you can only by living in the country. The advancement prospects within Aston are also great, and it's easy to switch to other locations after you complete your contract"
Mark
Aston Guiyang 2006, Yinchuan, 2008
Aston has been a great place to work. Teaching children has been my favorite part. Every time you walk into the classroom you see smiles and they can really brighten up your day. It is unbelievable how positive they are and all those laughs really start to rub off. While at first I might have been a little nervous teaching in a new environment, now I look forward to each class. The other staff have also been great. They have been really supportive and helpful. I have been given lots of constructive advice and I feel like I am really able to do well under their tutorship. Life in China has also been rewarding but can be a challenge. Other foreign teachers have given me advice and together we have gone through a lot. All in all it has been a great year and I can only say I loved it.
Fraser
Chengdu 2009
Before arriving in China I worked as an editor in the UK. Aston offered me the opportunity to take a brief break from this career, learn standard Chinese with the free lessons for teachers, and really enjoy living and travelling in the country. The relocation package is really helpful, giving me an apartment and taking care of visa’s and other bureaucracy that would otherwise be quite time consuming. On top of this, the children are great, full of fun and you are given all the support and training you need to really give them enjoyable, productive and fulfilling lessons.
Alex
Chongqing 2010
Having never travelled before, the idea of coming to China was very exciting yet daunting. However, after being here for over a year, I realize it was the best step I have ever made. Aston makes everything so easy for you, from providing accommodation and helping you with getting your visa. To helping you with everyday issues you may have. The staff are so helpful and will go out of their way to assist you in settling in and becoming the best teacher you can be. The free Chinese lessons are also fantastic. Above all, the children are amazing! They make everyday different, and make working an enjoyable experience.
Emma
Chongqing 2010
12 months ago I wouldn't have known how much I would enjoy teaching. As a first timer, everything was new to me. Full of hopes and dreams, I'd left my home country for a new career in TEFL. Initially, I was anxious, wondering how I would personally cope with an the language barrier, if I'd enjoy teaching and whether I had what it took to make it in The Peoples Republic. I admit to not knowing much about Aston English or China, I honestly hadn't even read the forums. Standing for the first time at the entrance of my new school in Yinchuan, I truly felt like a greenhorn and I knew it! Looking back now with one month left to go on my 12 month contract, it seems absurd to have had all those worries and concerns. I can honestly say I love teaching. Aston Yinchuan was a great place for me to start my career in TEFL, with a great teaching crew, excellent foriegn managers and lots of laughs along the way. Teaching and learning, making a difference and exploring my city and country on my days off was all part of the fun. Now, all that's left to wonder is, how long I wish to stay. There are so many opportunities for internal transfers within Aston and I look forward to the chance to see and work all over this expansive country. With Aston English, I feel set to step into my future with confidence and assurance knowing I've made my mark in TEFL. Thankyou Aston Yinchuan for helping me realise my dream.
Jon
Aston Yinchuan 2010
