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TEFL · Joined: 27 Jan 2009 Posts: 12

I've been considering taking a TEFL certificate in Guadalajara and then eventually moving on to Europe - either Italy or Spain. The only problem is the course I have been considering is just a TEFL certificate, not a CELTA. Would I have difficulty finding work in Spain with this qualification?

Thanks for your help!

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

Quite a lot depends on where you're from. If you are from the UK, a decent generic cert should be quite ok (100+ hours on site, with a teaching practicuum on real students is the basic). CELTA is the name brand.

If you're from North America or other non-EU member country, no certification will help you get legal work in Spain.
In the past, working under the table was common, but it's getting far more risky.

TEFL · Joined: 27 Jan 2009 Posts: 12

Thanks for your response.

I'm from the UK so I know that I won't have problems in terms of visa requirements.

Does this mean that any intensive 4 week TEFL course should be sufficient, even if it does not carry the title of CELTA?

Thanks again!

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

Yes. Ideally, take it in Spain.

There are lots of very good reasons to take a course in the country where you want to start working, if at all possible.

Training in-country offers you a great chance to get your feet wet in the country/culture
while you still have a support system � they usually arrange for your housing during the course, airport pickup, and local orientation. Your practice teaching students will really be representative of those you�ll be working with when you start. You can be sure that your certification will be recognized by local employers, and a training centre can give you invaluable contacts and advice regarding reputable local employers.

jonniboy · Posted: Tue Mar 24, 2009 6:31 am Post subject:

Just to clarify: do you mean Guadalajara the Spanish city or Guadalajara the Mexican city? I presume the latter since you talk about moving from there to Spain.

If so I'd definitely find a location in Spain to do it in instead.

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

That was my assumption as well...maybe a course is cheaper in Mexico, but add on travel costs and it still seems to make more sense to take it in Spain.