Job Discussion Forums

[Lukeukwalker]

I have recently finished university in the UK. I am expecting a 2.i in sport and exercise science. The level of English expected was of a high standard. At the moment I don't have any TEFL or TESOL qualifications but I am considering completing one, most likely being the CELTA or Trinity. I have three years experience working with foreign children acting as an activity leader for one of the UKs leading summer schools.

My question is will I be overlooked because i hold a BSc rather than a BA and if so will obtaining a CELTA or Trinity prevent this?

Thanks all

Luke

[JGC458]

You could have a degree in surfing/chewing gum/anti-communist studies and it wouldn't make a difference to most/nearly all(?) schools. As far as I can tell, all they care about is that you have a degree of some sort.

Having some sort of TEFL certification won't help re the BA/BSc issue, coz, as stated, there is no such issue - but it will help you get a legal job and you'll be able to choose from a wider choice of offers.

You having some teaching/monitoring experience also helps.

[Sef]

I've got a BSc and got a job teaching in China straight after uni, with no teaching qualifications whatsoever.
I've now got CELTA and a couple of years experience (not counting that initial stint in China) and I've just been offered a job in Shenzhen.
Your degree subject really isn't an issue.

[LanGuTou]

In most cases, the FAO at an institution in China would not know or care about the difference between a BSc. and BA degree. A copy of the certificate or diploma is all that they care about as it is a legal prerequisite for obtaining a work visa.

As for the teaching certificate, it can be an advantage but is, by no means, a necessity. Just do not expect it to make much difference to your salary!

[Jayray]

I'll agree that the BA/BSc isn't an issue for being accepted at a school. I observed a teacher who had only an TESOL certificate (or something like that) who was working at a private school. He was an excellent teacher, and possibly among the best TEFL teachers I've ever seen.

I met a Ph.D whose expertise was chemistry. He was Swedish. His command and ability to teach the English language was wonderful.

What matters is that you command good wages (you can determine that for yourself) and that you muster your knowledge of the English language, bring it into the Chinese class room, and do a good job.

Be confident.

Good luck to you.

[evaforsure]

[JGC458]

[The Great Wall of Whiner]

You're ok. Like another poster said, even if it is a degree in gum-chewing or skipping or juggling, you'll be fine.

[Lukeukwalker]

Thanks everyone for clearing that up. Just have to wait to receive my degree documents and I can begin applying. Thanks again for all your help.

Luke

[calgrl471]

same thing... no problems

[foreignDevil]