Which course?

To begin your career in TEFL, you need to take a Certificate level course in teaching English as a Foreign Language. There are 2 exam boards widely recognised all over the world – Trinity and Cambridge. Some organisations run their own Certificate training courses but you must be careful as these may limit you to teaching only in that companies schools.

First of all, decide whether it would suit you better to study full or part-time (see What to Expect from a TEFL course). Next, find out which courses are available in your area or areas you would be willing to travel to. With some organisations it is possible to complete a TEFL course abroad and you may find this leads to a job in the country where you studied. Other companies in the UK also act as recruitment agencies for schools abroad and may guarantee you a job on successful completion of your course. If you have been unemployed for 6 months it may be possible to get a funded place at a college of further education but waiting lists for these courses tend to be very long.

CELTA (the Cambridge Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults)
This is accepted throughout the world by organisations which employ English language teachers and is also recognised by the British Institute of English Language Teaching (BIELT). To find your nearest course provider visit www.cambridge-efl.org.uk.

CertTESOL (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from Trinity College)
Many employers in the UK and worldwide accept the Certificate as well based evidence of a teacher’s training and demonstrated skills. To find your nearest course provider go to Trinity’s website at www.trinitycollege.co.uk.

What is the difference between the CELTA and CertTESOL?
There are some differences in syllabus (see respective websites for details) but in general, these are the only accepted initial qualifications in Teaching English as a Foreign Language. Employers do not differentiate between them and both are accepted by the British Council.

How much do they cost?
Contact individual institutions for details.

Should I take an Introductory Course?
Many institutions offer introductory TEFL courses, often over a weekend. They may give you a certificate at the end but this will not be recognised by employers as a teaching qualification. If you have the money to spare and would like a taster then it may be worth it, otherwise do your research and choose a complete Certificate Course to go on.