Job Discussion Forums

[kmbush40]

Hi. Any help with the following is appreciated. (By the way, I'm cross posting this in the General Discussion forum as well, because I'm not sure which is more appropriate. Hope that's not in bad form).

I'm an American in my mid-twenties who would like to teach English in Europe, preferably adults, preferably in Germany, Austria or the Czech Republic, and preferably (but not necessarily) part time. I have a B.A. in history and 4 years experience as a classroom teacher / tutor for Kaplan Test Prep., including a limited amount of teaching E.S.L. (in addition to other work experience, most of which would probably not be relevant). Prior to applying, I'm going to take a course for TEFL or similar certification.

A couple related questions. Do European employers care whether the TEFL course was done in a classroom or online? For financial reasons I'd prefer to take an online class, of course, but would take one face-to-face if it will help make finding a job easier.

Also, I assume employers look more favorably on certification courses if they are in the 20 day--4 week range than in the weekend--1 week range. But is this actually true? In particular, is CELTA certification worth the time & expense when it comes to finding jobs? (My intention to is work for 1--3 years or so, not make a career of it.)

After some research, it seems CELTA may be the way to go, but it would be much easier to take a course in the US, then apply for work, get hired, and then make moving arrangements, put my things in storage, obtain a visa, etc. The other option is to take a course in the city in which I want to teach -- presumably the local schools would be better situated to place their students with jobs in the local market. How helpful are the teacher-certification courses in finding local work for their students? Will it make a real difference to get take a class in America vs. Europe?

Thanks in advance for any help.

Kevin Bush

[spiral78]

The European standard is the 30-day on - site course 120 hours plus, including that vital real teaching practice. An online cert will put you at a distinct disadvantage.

And you already have a distinct disadvantage in being from the US. Germany is difficult to get steady work in (economy in tank, working visas are not being issued freely to non-EU citizens). Austria is near impossible for US citizens.

Yes, the Czech Rep still is a possibility for US citizens, though you can count on the visa process being difficult, time-consuming, and expensive.

If you plan to try to do this, take a course in Prague. They can give you invaluable information concerning the current visa processes, reputable local employers, and you can be sure your certification will be recognized and respected.