What is the NET Scheme for teaching English in Hong Kong?
The NET (Native-speaking English Teachers) Scheme, overseen by Hong Kong's Education Bureau, is an established program that recruits foreign teachers for placement in state-run schools as English language teachers. This scheme annually enlists hundreds of teachers to serve in primary and secondary schools across Hong Kong. The NET Scheme is not just a professional opportunity but also a cultural experience, offering teachers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and the unique chance to live and work in one of Asia's most dynamic cities.
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What are the requirements for the NET Scheme?
What teaching jobs are available through the NET Scheme?
What are the benefits of the NET Scheme?
What are the requirements for the NET Scheme?
To qualify for the NET Scheme, several key requirements must be met by applicants. Firstly, candidates should be native or near-native English speakers. Additionally, the program mandates a two-year commitment to a specific school, beginning in August at the start of the new academic year. The NET Scheme is inclusive of all age groups, but it is important to consider that Hong Kong has a mandatory retirement age of 60. Therefore, applicants should be no older than 58 years at the commencement of their contract to ensure they can fulfill the two-year term.
What teaching jobs are available through the NET Scheme?
Through the NET Scheme, there are two main teaching job categories available: the Primary NET (PNET) and the Secondary NET (SNET). In the PNET category, teachers work with students aged 6-12 in classes typically comprising 30 to 37 students. Eligibility for PNET positions requires a degree in English or primary education, along with TESOL certification. In cases of insufficient qualified applicants, those with lower qualifications may be considered. Conversely, the SNET category caters to secondary level students, with average class sizes ranging from 40 to 45. SNET applicants must hold a degree in English or education, a post-graduate diploma in education, a TESOL diploma, and have a minimum of one year of teaching experience. Similarly to PNET, lower-qualified candidates may be considered if there is a shortfall in recruitment. For detailed information on these opportunities, interested individuals should refer to the official NET Scheme website.
What are the benefits of the NET Scheme?
Participants in the NET Scheme enjoy a range of substantial benefits. The scheme offers a competitive monthly salary ranging from HKD 25,000 to 60,000 (approximately $3,200 to $7,700 USD), determined by the individual's relevant teaching experience. In addition to this salary, several other perks are included:
- A housing allowance of about HKD 20,000 per month, along with assistance in finding suitable accommodation.
- Paid round-trip airfare for the teacher and up to four family members from their home country to Hong Kong.
- A relocation allowance to support the transportation of personal belongings.
- A stipend to cover medical insurance costs.
These benefits are designed to provide financial stability, ease the transition to living in Hong Kong, and ensure health coverage, making the NET Scheme an attractive option for educators looking to teach abroad.
