Job Discussion Forums

[cacodemon]

Hi,

I have been exploring my options on teaching English, and would be interested in any advice before committing myself to a particular course.
Now, I've read a number of comments on TEFL courses and while I feel that teaching English is a good choice for me at least in the short-term, there is some uncertainty on courses. What I have narrowed down in terms of preferences is a CELTA for teaching to adults (possibly business people), and an intensive course either in the UK where I am currently based, or abroad. People have said that the institution where you get the certificate is not important as long as there is enough teaching practise involved.

My main requirements are 1) the course + accommodation + other costs are fairly low, and most importantly 2) the course is not *extremely* intensive as some posters suggest from their experiences. Of course, I expect to be worked hard over the period of a course but any institute that has a more relaxed attitude is highly preferable since I've never done any teaching before. I'm not averse to stress, but constant intensity doesn't seem like the ideal environment for learning.

Someone here had mentioned the Bulgarian AVO-3 course, which had sounded ideal in terms of cost and a focus on minimising stress, but I'm looking for something that could be undertaken in the next month or two. There seem to be so many courses available that I have difficulty assessing the best option, so could anyone recommend from experience or otherwise a decent course that would match my requirements?

Thanks in advance for any useful advice!

[Sekhmet]

The TEFL International course, although it is fairly intensive, provides trips and stuff to help chill out!!! It also has good teaching practice and living costs in Egypt are stupidly cheap!
The course is hard work - there are two tests on Grammar and Phonology which are quite difficult, but the atmosphere at the schools all seem to be really laid back. I (obviously) did my course in Egypt, and I really enjoyed it. We had time to go see the sights of Alexandria, despite the workload, and in general I thought it was a really good course. The slight downside was the price, but accomodation and trips are included, so I guess it's not that bad!!! Plus, when you get out to Egypt, food, transport etc. are all really cheap...
I've also heard several times that CELTA is by far the best course. I know that some employers will demand it, but I've never had that problem with my certificate!!! I've also heard that although CELTA does mean it is aimed at adults, there is a reasonable amount of info about teaching children as well...
If you are looking at long term courses, and are from England, I'd look into the Leeds University 1 year course. It takes place on weekends and some weeknights, and it's easy to have a job while taking the course.
Good luck

[Spinoza]

[shmooj]

[cacodemon]

Thanks for your replies everyone. I don't want to do a part time course because I'd really prefer to get something done reasonably quickly now I've decided on a course of action (better that a course is too intensive than far too long-winded on a part-time basis). The Alexandria suggestion sounds excellent, and appears to be the most attractive option I've heard so far. Thanks again!