I agree a lot of the rules are BS, however, isn't professionalism expected back in the UK, i.e. being expected to turn up on time for classes or your job whatever it maybe. In the UK it would first carry a verbal warning, then second, then written warning as final warning. If once more, would result in dismissal. This rule is probably due to a lot of the backpacker dosser types who come late due to being hungover, stoned, slept in late, add favourite excuse for tardiness here...

My guess is as there aren't adequate laws to safeguard the rights of the FT and make the employer equally responsible, neither side knows where they stand, so the crappy places see fit to impose these fines with impunity, since in the absence of any law they are free to get away with it. Chinese labour law, only to my knowledge, covers Chinese nationals. SAFEA as we have found out is just a white elephant. What is needed is a universal labour law that equally applies to all, and especially protects foreign workers rights. So if they fine you for being late, fine, but you also should expect AND receive a payment of the full salary for that class period fromthem if they cancel it at the last minute.