Job Discussion Forums

suebird2004 · Joined: 18 Jan 2005 Posts: 2 Location: Chicago

I've been doing some very active research on the TEFL programmes out there and I'm having a hard time narrowing down the field as far as choosing which programme to get involved with. I've done extensive research on the following:

Next Level TRFL
TEFL Worldwide Prague
European Language Centers (Trinity)
TEFL International

All seem basically affordable and similar in certification, etc, but I'd like to get some feedback from people who have been in any of these courses and your experiences with them. What makes one better than another? I'm thinking I'd like to take the course in Prague (#1 choice) or in Paris (#2 choice), so feedback on and TEFL Course in those cities would be excellent. I'm in the beginning stages of my planning and will likely begin the coursework in or around September 2005. HELP ME!!!

Gordon · Joined: 28 Jan 2003 Posts: 5309 Location: Japan

CELTA

Sekhmet · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 329 Location: Alexandria, Egypt

I did the TEFL International one in February in Egypt, and it was a really good course, with 7 hours observed teaching practice, and some really good information sessions.
I know the CELTA is the more common (and better recognised) certificate, but I had absolutely no problems finding a job with my certificate. I guess it alld epends on where you want to teach - countries in which there are a lot of teaching jobs available will accept people with less prestigious certs, whereas other want a Masters before they'll even look at you!

bluffer · Posted: Fri Jan 21, 2005 6:13 am Post subject:

The problem is like all other courses. A lot of it depends on the quality of the trainer at the centre you choose. If its a good trainer at a poor course you will get more out of it than a poor trainer on a good course.

Now, which one? I did the TEFL Int in Ban Phe and thought it was a really good course.

Of the ones you mention I would either go for the TEFL Int or the CELTA.

The CELTA definately has more name recognition especially in Europe, in Asia its less clear cut. So depending on where you want to work, that could be an influence.

So, ask questions from both centres, see if you are happy with their answers and go for the one you are happier with.