Job Discussion Forums

[Meanjean]

Hello,

Does anyone know anything about the Kent English CTEFL program in Instanbul? The cost of the program is higher than other programs, but they do provide accomodations. If anyone has taken this course, would love to hear about your experience.

Thanks,
JKM

[Misstanbul]

I did my CTEFL at Kent English a couple years ago. I am not sure what prices are now, but back then it was cheaper than most other European cities (I looked in Italy, Spain, etc...). I had a great experience with them and did a home stay with the most wonderful Turkish lady. They have their own apartment too that they can offer you a shared room with other CTEFL folks. My class was only 5 students and we had a great time. The trainers were great too and were very helpful with job placement afterwards. It was a lot of hard work, but was definitely worth it. Feel free to ask for more info. I would be happy to answer .

[Meanjean]

Thank you for your nice note. It's great to hear that you had such a good experience with the Kent English program. It looks as though you're located in Istanbul. Are you teaching there? How are you finding it?

Thanks for offering to answer any questions that may come up. I'm sure I will have them!

[Misstanbul]

I have been living and teaching in Istanbul since early 2007. I love it! I just signed a contract with a new school and am very excited to work there. My last school, Doğa Koleji (you can see the recent post ), was FAR from perfect, but not the worst experience in the world. As far as employment goes here, there always seems to be something available but there are also a lot of bad apples in the bunch (as far as schools go).

[ossie39]

Is that the Kent English Based in Ankara? They had at least one other centre in Istanbul or nearby Bolu. If it is them I am not suprised the cost is a bit more for a course. Out for anything they can get. They haven't had such a good name with teachers over the years. I expect it is them because they wouldn't operate knowing a competitor had the same name like with the 'Kent English' in Izmir years ago.

[Misstanbul]

There are two Kent English schools. The one in Istanbul (in Kadık�y) is a stand alone school. You can check the two websites: KE, Ankara at www.kentenglish.org and KE, Istanbul at www.kentenglish.com.

[Marquess]

Why bother with a knock off tefl cert when you can do the real CELTA at the same cost and have a far better chance of working?

[Listener]

I went through kent and had a good experience. I couldn't do a program farther away because of child care issues, timing was of the essence for me. It was rough, especially with mommy duty, but it was worth it and it did improve my job situation. The teachers are fine and the owner is a good guy.

[TeachEnglish]

I also did my TEFL training at Kent English in Kadikoy.. they were great.. a very good experience.. they are serious and do a very good job. They usually have accommodation.. but you might have to pay extra for it.
I think the TEFL was a good thing because the government requires this certificate to get a work permit. I have had friends with years of teaching experience including a teaching degree.. but were not able to get the work permit because no TEFL certificate. Things here do seem to change regularly. You can also work on your Celta and Delta while here living and teaching.. they are also beneficial. TEFL seems to be a quick path to legal work here.. Good luck.. I think Kent English will treat you good.. and give you lots of support. Peace

[fishmb]

I've heard the CELTA at ITI in Istanbul is OK. That's where I'm hoping to go to get mine. I think if you're going to spend money getting a certification you might as well get a CELTA because of the name recognition, that was my reasoning anyway.

[TeachEnglish]

yes, you are right.. CELTA then DELTA (I think) and they are most beneficial in some other countries.. Here, the TEFL was good enough to get persmission from YOK (the education board) to get a work permit with a 4-year degree.