Job Discussion Forums

paintyourtarget · Joined: 11 Apr 2014 Posts: 7 Location: United States

I know the CELTA is technically 'the same everywhere', but I imagine quality of education (or at least grading rigor) must vary depending on the institution and instructors. Some of the teaching centers almost give me a 'scammy' vibe (no info disclosed, hidden fees, etc). Since it's basically a $5,000+ investment (incl. flight and accommodations), I'm trying to do as much research as possible on individual teaching centers. Since I have zero teaching experience, I want to absorb knowledge as effectively as possible.

I'd love to hear your feedback. Where did you get your certification (CELTA, TESOL, etc), and what was your experience there?

nomad soul · Joined: 31 Jan 2010 Posts: 11454 Location: The real world

Where do you intend to teach?

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

There are a lot of advantages to doing a CELTA or equivalent course in the country where you want to start teaching. Course providers can be a useful bridge into country/culture - they usually deal with logistics like airport pickup and lodging during the course. Your practice teaching students will be really representative of those you'll work with when you start, and fellow trainees can form your first social network. You can also be more sure that your cert will be recognized by local employers, and a training centre can offer invaluable advice as to reputable employers.

grahamb · Joined: 30 Apr 2003 Posts: 1945

International House, Madrid, 2003. Money well spent.

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

Like many of us, my TEFL was earned so long ago (16 years) that the info wouldn't be of much use to anyone- the trainers I worked with are long gone. You might be better off to post on the newbie board, where more people are likely to have fresh certs.

nomad soul · Joined: 31 Jan 2010 Posts: 11454 Location: The real world

das31 · Joined: 08 Jul 2013 Posts: 36

I got a Trinity Cert (CELTA equivalent) at Oxford Tefl in India. The reason I chose their new location, Kochi, is the cost of accommodation. It was only about $200 for the entire month. Also it was incredibly cheap for me to fly there from Korea, where I was living at the time.

I'd highly recommend it.

Far cheaper than a CELTA, too, at approximately 1300 euros.

coledavis · Joined: 21 Jun 2003 Posts: 1838

Re taking the course in another country: If you are definitely intending to work there, yes. Otherwise, it might be cheaper to do it at home, assuming it's not costing much in terms of travel, rent and food.

I did CELTA in London, at St Giles (Highgate centre). A little more expensive than some, but a good experience overall.