Job Discussion Forums

[epiphaniebloom]

Hi there,

I'm interested in getting a TEFL qualification of some sort, but I'm not sure which is the most appropriate for me. I would ideally like to teach young learners (under 14), but a qualification which will equip me to deal with adults as well would be great.

So far the RSA CELTA and Trinity TESOL have been recommended to me by a school that accepts teachers with these qualifications... should I be choosing between these two, or is there another option that emphasises skills for teaching to young learners that I'm not yet aware of?

Thanks for any informed feedback,
Epiphanie

[Madame J]

I am currently in a similar position, being an almost complete novice and as such finding this whole getting-one's-foot-in-the-door malarkey to be a little overwhelming. I also wish to teach young learners, though for me that interest is exclusive. The idea of teaching adults leaves me stone cold and I would only go there in times of severe financial desperation.

Anyway, for young learners there is a course called the CELTYL, which runs on similar terms to the CELTA, or else there's the option of taking the CELTA followed by a two week YL add-on. However, after both perusing job adverts and asking about on here I have come to the conclusion that YL really seems to exist only as a way of furthering one's learning rather than a passport to better employment. A CELTA seems to be the most widely regarded course regardless of ages of learners and so, grudgingly, I have settled for taking that course. It does seem a bit silly, but that's what all employers seem to ask for!

[epiphaniebloom]

I appreciate the information, and I hope you find the job that's just right for you upon completion of your CELTA...

I would much prefer to teach young learners myself, but if there was a choice between, say, teaching YLs in Moscow and Adults in Barcelona, I would pick the latter due to the location. So I guess CELTA is my best bet.

Thanks again,
Epiphanie

[naturegirl321]

CELTA has a YL (young learners) option.

[nickpellatt]

I am on my trinity Cert TESOL now...it finishes on friday...so I do intend writing a longer post then to share my experiences.

[Chancellor]