In 2013 Alexis Toye, co-founder of Teacher Horizons, travelled across China visiting schools and speaking with principals along the way. In this article he shares his experience and insights – a must read for anyone considering teaching in this fascinating country.

It’s the year of the horse and to those who believe in such things – the horse represents energy, brightness and warm heartedness. The Chinese see the symbol of the horse as an unremitting effort to improve themselves. How apt then, that it should be the year that I move to China! And for snakes such as myself it is set to be a great year. I have to say, I feel my ‘fortune’ is already coming true!