On the flip side of that, though, it has caused them to hesitate or baulk altogether at the idea of firing a teacher who has proven himself or herself to be totally inappropriate. The probationary clause helps that problem, but, all too often, situations arise after the probationary period has expired.

I've only had contracts with clauses re a probationary period offered to me by two potential employers out of a total of 30 in 15 years here in China.And one of the two was a recruiter,trying to reduce my salary for the first two months of my employment.!I'm strongly opposed to such a clause,and I'm not alone!Wily employers will use it to pay less salary during probation.Suggesting the erosion of the employment conditions of your fellow FT's here will certainly not endear you to many of them,that's for sure.Indeed,some will say you are a Chinese,and I wouldn't blame them for saying so.Click on the link below to view the standard teaching contract in both languages.Its conditions do not include probationary periods.Said contract is the one that is used very often by public sector educational establishments employing FT's,and long may that continue.Maybe 50% of private schools use it too.I've worked for two private schools that offered said contract.
http://www.eslteachersboard.com/cgi-bin/forum/index.pl?read=55160