Job Discussion Forums

[Glynis]

I need to know if you definitely need TEFL qualifications to work overseas teaching English? I was thinking of a short 3 month mini gap break, not a year's contract.

I qualified as a teacher of English in 1976 and since then have gained other quals. in teaching Literacy as a Basic Skill to adults, and am also a dyslexia specialist- so pretty hot on phonics, etc etc.

I have worked full and part time as a teacher for 30+ years, age range from 7-70.

Do I need a TEFL qualif. and if so, which - does it need o be full CELTA or would some other shorter course be enough?

[spiral78]

3-month contracts are pretty rare.

So far as qualifications, quite a lot depends where you want to go. In more competitive markets such as Europe or North America, your experience and quals won't give you much of an edge.

I, too, have general teaching quals, but the approaches and methods used for teaching language to non-native speakers are substantially different to those in classrooms where the native language is the language of instruction. Good schools are generally aware of this.

Not that your quals and experience won't count - they will - but they won't obviate the need for at least a basic cert in competitive job markets. I am speaking only for my personal regions of experience (Europe and North America) - others may have a different perspective for other regions.

[Guy Courchesne]

3 months is short to be sure.

You could do just fine almost anywhere in Latin America on your current experience, in a language institute. The short stay would be your main limiting factor.

Is money a concern? Maybe a volunteer program would be a better bet.

[Glynis]

Thanks- yes money is an issue as I would be giving up work in the UK- I am currently self-employed as a private teacher.

I had intended initially to do volunteering, then I suddenly thought I might be able to earn something with my qualifications.

Any suggestions which TEFL quals are best if I wanted todo something basic? Does it have to be the full Cambridge/Trinity thing?

[Guy Courchesne]

I think we could be more helpful if you gave us an idea as to where in the world you'd like to go.

[Chancellor]

[Glenski]

In some countries (like Japan, where I am), you're not going to make up your start-up costs in just 3 months.

Here, I know of only one place that will consider you for 3 months. I agree with Guy. Tell us where you would like (or not like) to go. Also, when do you want to start?

[naturegirl321]

camp jobs are an option as well.

[Sadebugo]

In most of East Asia, you only need a BA/BS in any topic for the entry level jobs. You are much more qualified than many of the teachers who are currently working there.

Sadebugo
http://travldawrld.blogspot.com/