A survey has placed teachers as China's best regarded profession. Then comes scientists, doctors, soldiers, policemen, public servants, engineers, lawyers, entrepreneurs, farmers, athletes, artists, correspondents and workers. No mention of politicians, funnily enough.

Two decades after China created a Teachers' Day, which falls on September 10, teaching, once considered undervalued and underprivileged, has come to be regarded as one of the best professions in China, as teachers are well-paid and have two-month paid holidays each year.