Why Choose Shenzhen?

Just a few decades ago, Shenzhen was a quiet fishing village on China’s southern coast. Today, it’s one of the country’s most exciting and fast-moving cities. It’s a place that has grown quickly, confidently, and with its eyes firmly on the future.

As China’s first Special Economic Zone, Shenzhen became a magnet for opportunity. People arrived with ideas, ambition, and a willingness to try something new, shaping a city that feels energetic, modern, and refreshingly open-minded. That spirit is still very much alive. Shenzhen runs almost 24/7, with buzzing neighbourhoods, late-night food spots, and a social scene that keeps going well after the workday ends.

What makes Shenzhen especially appealing is the balance it offers. Alongside its skyscrapers and tech hubs, you’ll find green parks, coastal paths, beaches, and mountain trails just a short journey away. It’s easy to switch from city life to nature, whether that’s an evening walk by the bay or a weekend hike with panoramic views.

Culturally, Shenzhen is diverse and outward-looking, shaped by people from all over China and an expanding international community. It’s a city that values progress, creativity, and fresh perspectives.

For teachers who enjoy vibrant cities, new ideas, and a lifestyle that blends energy with space to breathe, Shenzhen offers a place to grow, explore, and feel part of something constantly evolving.

Location and Climate

Shenzhen’s location is one of its biggest advantages. Sitting on China’s southern coast, right next to Hong Kong, the city feels naturally connected to the wider world.

High speed trains, border crossings, and a major international airport make travel simple, whether you’re heading into Hong Kong for the weekend, exploring other Chinese cities, or venturing further afield.

While cities like Guangzhou are an easy train ride away, destinations such as Vietnam, Thailand, South Korea, and Japan are all well within reach for holidays. Hong Kong, in particular, adds another layer to life here. It’s easy to dip in and out whenever you want a change of pace.

The climate matches the city’s energy. Shenzhen enjoys a subtropical climate with long, warm summers and short, mild winters.

Winters are comfortable rather than cold, making them ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, and exploring the city on foot.

Spring and autumn bring warmer days, greenery, and clear skies, while summer turns up the heat with beach weather, evening walks, and plenty of air-conditioned escapes.

Rainy days do appear, especially in summer, but they tend to be short and dramatic rather than constant. Overall, Shenzhen’s climate supports an active, outdoor lifestyle all year round.

Is Shenzhen Right for You?

Curiosity and openness is rewarded in Shenzhen. It suits people who are excited by change, enjoy fast moving environments, and like being part of something that’s constantly evolving. Life here has momentum, and those who thrive tend to lean into it rather than stand on the sidelines.

That doesn’t mean you need to be loud, extroverted, or endlessly outgoing. Shenzhen has space for all personality types. What matters more is adaptability and a willingness to get involved. Whether that’s exploring new neighbourhoods, trying unfamiliar food, joining a gym or social group, or simply saying yes to opportunities as they come up, the city encourages participation.

And although Shenzhen moves quickly, it also offers balance. You can dive into busy districts, social evenings, and a packed calendar of things to do, then step back into parks, beaches, or mountain trails when you need space. The key is being open to the rhythm of the city and finding your own pace within it.

If you enjoy modern cities, new ideas, and somewhere that feels alive with possibility, Shenzhen can be incredibly rewarding. It’s a place where effort is met with opportunity, and where getting involved often leads to a richer, more connected experience of life abroad.

To be eligible for our Shenzhen partner, you’ll need to meet a small number of basic requirements. 

  • A bachelor’s degree in any subject

  • A completed TEFL certificate (which is included as part of our program)

  • A passport from the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.

  • A clean criminal background check

Previous teaching experience is not required. Many of the teachers who do best on our China program are recent graduates or first-time teachers who are enthusiastic, adaptable, and keen to learn on the job. You do not need any understanding of Chinese language.

5 Things to Do in Shenzhen

Relax at Dameisha Beach

Explore Dafen Oil Painting Village

Hike Wutong Mountain

Feast on delicious food with friends

Watch the sunset at a rooftop bar

School Life

Work with our partner in Shenzhen is structured, engaging, and well supported, making it a great environment for teachers at different stages of their career. Schools across the city offer roles in kindergartens, primary, middle, and high schools, allowing you to work with whatever age groups that best suit your interests and experience.

In kindergartens, the focus is on creating a fun, energetic learning environment. Lessons are interactive and activity based, with plenty of songs, games, and movement, and you’ll usually work alongside a local co teacher.

In primary and secondary schools, classes are more structured, with a clear curriculum to follow and a stronger focus on developing students’ confidence and communication skills in English.

Most schools run Monday to Friday during standard school hours, giving you evenings and weekends free. The working week is balanced, with time for lesson planning, collaboration with colleagues, and regular breaks during the day. Students are generally respectful, curious, and motivated, which makes teaching both enjoyable and rewarding.

Beyond the classroom, school life helps you settle in and feel part of the community. With clear expectations and ongoing support, teaching in Shenzhen offers a stable routine within one of China’s most exciting cities.

3 Must Try Foods in Shenzhen

Seafood Hotpot

Dim Sum

Claypot Rice

Cost of Living

Shenzhen offers a comfortable cost of living, especially when compared to other major global cities. Renting an apartment outside the city centre typically costs around £300 to £500 per month, depending on the area and size, with modern buildings and good transport links widely available. Everyday expenses are affordable, making it easy to live well on a teacher’s salary. A bowl of noodles at a local restaurant usually costs £2 to £4, while a full meal in a casual eatery might be £5 to £7. Public transport is efficient and inexpensive, often under £1 per journey, and gym memberships, coffee, and groceries remain reasonably priced, helping you enjoy life without constant budgeting.

Salary

Teaching salaries in Shenzhen allow you to live comfortably while saving each month. Typical monthly salaries range from £1,300 to £1,650, depending on the role and school, with an additional housing allowance of around £300 to £450 per month. This means your total monthly income often sits between £1,600 and £2,100. With rent and daily costs kept relatively low, many teachers are able to save a portion of their salary while still enjoying travel, dining, and social life. Salaries are paid monthly, contracts are stable, and working hours are predictable, making budgeting simple and stress free. Overall, Shenzhen offers strong earning potential alongside a high quality of life.