Job Discussion Forums

Transpective · Joined: 19 Jan 2011 Posts: 8

Hey guys,

I tried to run a search about this, but it seems like the search function is down right now, so I hope this isn't a repeat question. I was doing some research on CELTA programs in Beijing where I plan on moving this coming august, and I saw that Language Link seems to have a pretty good program for CELTA acquisition. The time when their courses begin lines up very well my personal timetable, but before I apply and start throwing eggs in that basket, I wanted to check in and make sure these guys aren't a bunch of swindlers. Any thoughts or insight on this issue? Thanks a million.

keeperofpythons · Joined: 28 Jan 2010 Posts: 152 Location: zhu san jiao

I know some other people who have done CELTAs through Language Link in other countries, so as far as I know they are reputable. I'm currently signed up for their CELTA course in August. I have spoken with the a couple of staff members as well as one of the tutors (not the head tutor) online as well as briefly during my last weekend jaunt to Beijing.

There used to be a course in Shanghai but as far as I know (which can surely be wrong), it's not being offered anymore. In the event that this is indeed the only CELTA offering in China, it would be pretty sad if it was a sham.

All the above said, I have a good feeling about it, but no hard, specific evidence about this one center. Take that as you will.

wangdaning · Joined: 22 Jan 2008 Posts: 3154

I though the Shanghai one was still running.

Anyway, through my research I found it is actually cheaper to go to Vietnam and take the course.

To be approved to teach a CELTA course the outfit needs to be accredited. If they swindle you take it up with the group who accredited them.

I have never taken a CELTA course, it just seems too expensive (a good quarter of a year's salary), and all of their material is available for free. In that sense you might wonder if they are not all swindling people.

keeperofpythons · Joined: 28 Jan 2010 Posts: 152 Location: zhu san jiao

It is indeed cheaper to take it other places. I'm lucky in that I have a friend near the center in Beijing with whom I can crash with for free. For me, personally, this situation is "cheaper", but the previous poster is indeed right.

Also, from a point of self-discipline, I would not be unhappy working my @$$ off in Beijing for 1 month with little to no time to enjoy the local area. Having been only a 3-hour train ride from Beijing for the last year, I've been there a couple handfuls of time, so I'm not going to be tempted to see the "major" attractions there. It's old news. I'm slightly worried that if I did the course elsewhere, I'd be tempted to burn the midnight oil in the wrong ways. This just happens to suit me quite well.

daCabbie · Joined: 02 Sep 2007 Posts: 244

keeperofpythons · Joined: 28 Jan 2010 Posts: 152 Location: zhu san jiao

daCabbie · Joined: 02 Sep 2007 Posts: 244

I have been to Taiyuan a couple of times. This time of year it's miserable. Cold and lonely. Covered in coal dust. I would rather starve to death in West Virginia (by God!) than spend one winter in Taiyuan.

It ain't much better where I live.

daylatehero · Joined: 03 Jun 2010 Posts: 8

i did my CELTA at LanguageLink in Beijing in November. 100% Legit.