Job Discussion Forums

SaratheSlytherin · Joined: 21 Jul 2009 Posts: 137 Location: North Carolina

I can accept an honest answer, but not a nasty one.

I'm really concerned that I've ruined my chance of getting a teaching job at a reputable school.

I just finished doing a TESOL course... I worked really hard at the course and I got an A on the written exam but my final grade was just a pass.

I was really concerned about this. I've talked to some friends who have knowledge and experience and they reassured me that employers don't look at grades; the main concern is whether or not you have the certificate.

I felt a bit better but I was looking at these forums and (I don't have the link) but someone else was asking about CELTA and grades.\
One poster said that reputable schools will only consider candidates with a pass A or pass B.

I am asking this question with all respect to my friends who reassured me.... I know you're knowledgeable. I'm just really worried about my future.

Have I ruined my chance of getting a teaching job at a reputable school?
I'm still searching for my first job. I'm really concerned... is there any solution to this? What to do?

I have a university degree and classroom (not EFL) experience.

Thank you if you can help.

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

This is not something to worry about. Really, having the cert is all that most employers will care about.
I have never, in nearly 15 years, even bothered to put the grade I got in my initial cert course OR the fact that my MA was 'with distinction' on my CV. No one's ever asked.
Really, not a problem!!

On a practical note, also remember that entry-level cert courses tend, due to time constraints, to focus quite highly on a limited set of approaches and methods. What you do in real life, with real students, can vary considerably more.

Sashadroogie · Posted: Mon Mar 01, 2010 8:45 pm Post subject:

Too true. Most employers pile CVs into one of two categories: with cert; without cert. The latter being filed in the bin. Most employers, that is. Not all. Sadly. Sniff.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

You have the certification or you don't. That's all that matters.

robertokun · Joined: 27 May 2008 Posts: 199

Yeah, once you get a little more experience in the field, you'll notice that grades are essentially meaningless. Don't sweat it.

SaratheSlytherin · Joined: 21 Jul 2009 Posts: 137 Location: North Carolina

Thanks everyone. I am relieved because this seems to be the final verdict.

I'm still a baby in the EFL world and I appreciate your help. I'm still in that "oh my goodness, what next" phase.

SaratheSlytherin · Joined: 21 Jul 2009 Posts: 137 Location: North Carolina

Thanks everyone. I am relieved because this seems to be the final verdict.

I'm still a baby in the EFL world and I appreciate your help. I'm still in that "oh my goodness, what next" phase.

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Mon Mar 15, 2010 12:14 pm Post subject:

Deep breath. Relax.

It really isnt' going to matter. My pass certificate and I have now worked in 4 different countries together. No one has even ever discussed the grade with me. And, after a few years, if you stick with the field, you'll be getting more qualifications...and the cert will hardly matter at all.

Mostly, those who claim it makes a big difference either have a high grade, or is a course trainer who gives them...really, it just isn't going to matter.

Best,
Justin

frogandeagle · Joined: 29 May 2009 Posts: 15 Location: Australia