Job Discussion Forums

BreccaBee · Joined: 14 Feb 2006 Posts: 4

Hi, Newbie here,

I plan to teach overseas beginning in 2007. I will be 57 next month. I have varied ESL teaching experiences from tutoring, public school, preuniversity experience, etc. I have a MA from a fairly major university which has a concentration in teaching ESL. I also have a teacher's certificate in ESL. However, it is about to expire in the state where it was issued. My question is will I need to get an Tefl certificate? I really don't want to get one if I don't have to as I already have knowledge in cultural studies, research info although not up to date, and many teaching skills.

So what do you all think.

BreccaBee

Justin Trullinger · Posted: Fri Feb 17, 2006 9:45 pm Post subject:

Guy Courchesne · Joined: 10 Mar 2003 Posts: 9650 Location: Mexico City

I don't think you'll need it. Not that it mkes a difference to your question but what countries are you thinking of going to?

denise · Joined: 23 Apr 2003 Posts: 3419 Location: finally home-ish

No,you shouldn't need it. Private language schools often require a certificate, but you're already overqualified for most private language schools.

d

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

Never knew tefl certs had a best before date, better check mine..... Phew, still good.
Seriously, don't worry about getting another tefl, it would be overkill, judt apply where you want to teach and it should be no problem.

lalalateda · Joined: 05 Nov 2005 Posts: 72 Location: JAPAN

Don't worry about the TEFL cert. The MA is more important. I have a MA ELT and no TEFL cert. No one has ever said anything about it.

tedkarma · Posted: Mon Feb 20, 2006 12:09 pm Post subject:

Don't let your certification expire - do whatever you need to do to renew it. With your qualifications you shouldn't be messing around with language schools - apply to international schools via organizations like ISS. Your wages, benefits, time-off, etc. will be much much better. And your years of experience will be considered valuable rather than a hindrance.