Job Discussion Forums

bulgogiboy · Joined: 23 Feb 2005 Posts: 803

I think I've only ever seen 1-2 job ads that even mentioned the grade of the CELTA, most just want you to have it, regardless of the grade. I think it can't hurt though, being in the top 6% or so of people who get an 'A' at it. Well done!

What's your bachelors and/or masters degree in? You might find that has much more importance when applying for a job. I would imagine any job applicants with a TEFL/English-related degree would take precedence over you, regardless of your brilliant performance in the CELTA Crying or Very sad

FunGus · Joined: 10 Jun 2008 Posts: 34

I've heard second hand that many of the more reputable schools in the Czech Republic tend to want at least a Pass B--with the feeling that this mark is a fairly decent sign that the applicant will be ok in the classroom with minimal support.

That being said, I think the grade (like one's gpa from college when job hunting in the US) really only matters with the first job--but a Pass A isn't given out easily. I'd be sure to play that up a bit on my CV.

sharter · Joined: 25 Jun 2008 Posts: 878 Location: All over the place

I've been teaching for 15 years (5 countries). IH, BC, university etc. No-one really cares about your CELTA grade. Most language schools hire anyone with a pulse when there's a need. I've been with oil companies for yonks now cos of the dosh. Those touchy feely trainers implode when they teach in the real world . Most I've met got out of the classroom asap. Don't make a career of EFL!

basiltherat · Joined: 04 Oct 2003 Posts: 952

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

If Czech employers are asking for a pass B, this is simply a reflection of the fact that Prague's a training centre mecca, and there are so many newly-qualified teachers on the streets. Competition is pretty tough on that specific market.

I doubt that it's much of an issue most places, though.

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Tue Mar 02, 2010 7:52 pm Post subject:

johnslat · Posted: Tue Mar 02, 2010 9:36 pm Post subject:

Dear Justin,

" . . . you can get the kind of jobs that don't just "hire anyone with a pulse"!"

True - and if you don't have even a pulse, well, there's always Zombie EFL:

STUDENT A�s QUESTIONS (Do not show to Student B)

1) What images spring to mind when you hear the word �zombie�?

2) What do you know about zombies?

3) Is there a time of the day or week you feel like a zombie?

4) What would you do if you woke up one morning and all of the people in your town were zombies?

5) What three adjectives would you use to describe a zombie?

6) Are there zombies (of any kind) in your culture?

7) If you were a zombie, what would you do with your life (death)?

Cool

Are you a walking zombie if you have next to no sleep?

9) What name would you give to a zombie movie?

10) What do you think zombies chat about when they get together?

Please feel free to supply answers
Regards,
John

sharter · Joined: 25 Jun 2008 Posts: 878 Location: All over the place

Teacher trainers are always so happy in that ideal world in which you have resources,the students are motivated and there are scissors aplenty. Don't make this a career and regard EFL employers as capricious,underpaying liars. You'll be nearer the mark. Another lamb to the slaughter...

johnslat · Posted: Thu Mar 04, 2010 2:50 pm Post subject:

Dear sharter,

"Don't make this a career . . "

TOO LATE FOR ME - but then, having worked in the Middle East for over twenty years and having saved a fair amount, I'm thoroughly enjoying my semi-retirement (I could be retired, but I enjoy teaching too much to quit completely) in Santa Fe, NM.

WHERE DID I GO WRONG????

Regards,
John

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Sun Mar 07, 2010 12:01 am Post subject:

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

I think it's the Azar/Soars effect that creates zombies.