Job Discussion Forums

Lamis · Joined: 14 Oct 2010 Posts: 1

Hi there,

Basically kinda saying the same as a lot of people have been on here but still finding it hard to piece together some answers.

I'm very confused with the sheer number of TEFL qualifications out there, specially when typing it into Google and getting overwhelmed! But have gathered that the 2 biggies are Trinity certTESOL and CELTA.

But which one? Is there much difference? Is one more accredited, ie. CELTA has affiliation with Cambridge..?

Ideally I'd love to end up teaching in Japan so is one more suited to that ambition?

Also how intense is the part-time course? Is it manageable with a part-time job?

Any advice muchly appreciated!

Sadebugo · Joined: 10 May 2003 Posts: 524

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

Most employers in Japan don't know about certification. Certainly, the entry level jobs don't.

If you want to work in Japan, come to the Japan forums. Expect to be told that the market is flooded right now and competition is high. Also, please explain your goals -- whether you want to work short- or long-term, in what sort of institution, etc.

nickpellatt · Joined: 08 Dec 2006 Posts: 1522

Not much difference between CELTA and Trinity IMO. I have a Trinity, I work with people who hold CELTA. We all did pretty much the same training with only minor differences. Employers who recognise the value of such training normally state both to be acceptable in their job adverts.

In all honesty ... if one is more convenient to you in terms of cost, dates and location, thats the one to take.

I dont know anyone who has taken the course part-time, but it will be designed for people who have work or other commitments so Im sure it will be manageable with a bit of discipline and organisation on your part. It may even work out to be a bit easier as you will have more time to think over concepts and ideas.

naturegirl321 · Joined: 04 May 2003 Posts: 9041 Location: home sweet home

Where'd Justin go?

SIT is also good,

Generic ones are pretty much fine as long as they have 120 hours and 6 practical hours. Ask around before you pay though, just in case.

HevC · Joined: 01 Dec 2010 Posts: 5 Location: UK

To the OP:
I noticed no one answered your question about the part-time courses; I completed the Trinity Cert.TESOL part-time in October (at TEFL Lab, London) whilst in a full-time job.
To say it was intense and pretty hard going at times whilst working, is an understatement! However, if you're serious about it and can organise yourself well, a part-time job with this course is definitely do-able.
Many of the people I trained with were surprised how I could manage the workload whilst working, but the routine tends to help you focus!

If it's really something you want to do, then a little determination and dedication will take you a long way Smile

The Cert. TESOL is accredited to Trinity College of London which will give you just as much bang for your buck as the Cambridge accredited CELTA. Just read the course program to see which one suiits you better.

Hope this helps, if you want any more info - just ask!

Heather x