TEFL – 6 things you may not know

Perhaps you’re thinking about doing a  TEFL course , maybe you feel they are only for college students, maybe you reckon you need to be multilingual – here are some surprising things you may not know.

1. TEFL is not just for the under 25s

As an adventure teaching English abroad has always been a popular choice for students, indeed many think you have to be young to do it.

Weekend TEFL classroom course in Dublin.

In recent times we’ve seen more and more career changers, career breakers or retirees set off on TEFL adventures. If you have the ability and the mind-set to move to a particular location you may find some schools are often attracted to applications from the more mature teacher.

2. TEFL courses can fit around your schedule or lifestyle

Our courses are broken down into intensive classroom workshops and online courses. You can do either or combine both whichever suits your requirements. Remember you can log in and out of the online course elements as you have time available, so you can get some coursework done even if you only have a half an hour of free time. With up to 6 months to complete (double what other course provider’s offer) there’s no reason to say “I don’t have the time”.

3. You don’t need to speak a foreign language

When you are hired as a TEFL teacher you are hired to speak English exclusively in the classroom. The whole point of having a teacher who speaks native level English is that you provide an atmosphere of total immersion in the classroom with the students required to communicate in English. Getting comfortable with a few local phrases may help however when you head to the local markets.

4. TEFL isn’t just about teaching children

Many of our TEFL grads who head abroad do work in nurseries, kindergartens and primary schools but there is also a huge demand for TEFL teachers in university or higher education institutions, as well as in an organisational setting. Teaching business English is becoming increasingly popular, especially in Europe and the Far East. Where and who you teach all depends on what you'd enjoy most.

5. TEFL is of huge importance to the students you will teach

As English is now the international language of business, many countries see it as essential to their economic development and vital in providing opportunities for their people. Whether it’s for the development of tourism or technological industries, learning English may provide the key to a better future.

6. TEFL can help you get work at home

The experiences you will gain from a TEFL adventure – travelling and teaching abroad – can help make you an attractive option to potential employers at home. You’ll have gained valuable work experience in addition to vital transferable skills in areas such as presentation, communication and organisation, which will aid you greatly in any future role.

It’s an amazing adventure that may be just what you need.

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