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Why Employers Prefer Candidates with Accredited TEFL Certificates

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Why Employers Prefer Candidates with Accredited TEFL Certificates
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People switch to a TEFL career for various reasons: as a way to take a gap year before or after university, to experience a more vocational profession, or to enjoy a different lifestyle. Some even choose it as a fulfilling option during retirement. Regardless of the motivation, diving into teaching without proper training is a risky move. It's not fair to yourself, your employer or, most importantly, your students - subjected to unprepared and uninformed instruction.

A typical TEFL course, usually spanning 120 hours, equips you with the necessary tools to start teaching students of all levels in your chosen country. It boosts your confidence to stand in front of a classroom, teaches you lesson planning, and guides you in creating engaging activities and selecting appropriate materials.

Taking an initial TEFL course is similar to cooking from scratch – understanding how flavours work together and trying different recipes give you a solid foundation to build upon through practical experience. 

Although any course designed to train you in teaching English as a foreign language can be called a TEFL course, the quality of each programme can vary significantly. From an employer's perspective, there are several reasons why the strongest candidates hold a TEFL qualification that has been accredited by a reputable and recognised accreditation body.

Let’s see what accredited a TEFL qualification means to your potential employers.

It demonstrates professionalism and commitment

Obtaining an accredited TEFL certificate requires candidates to invest time, effort, and financial resources into a course that is jam-packed with new information. Employers view this commitment as a strong indicator of a candidate's professionalism and dedication to their chosen career. 

Accredited TEFL programmes are designed to provide comprehensive training in language teaching methodologies, classroom management, lesson planning, and evaluation techniques. By completing an accredited programme, candidates demonstrate their willingness to go the extra mile to enhance their teaching skills and stay updated with industry standards. Employers value candidates who show this level of commitment, as it reflects their ability to meet challenges head-on.

It guarantees a certain level of teaching skills

Accredited TEFL programmes offer candidates a wide array of teaching techniques and strategies to effectively engage and educate diverse groups of learners. With such variety, candidates develop and refine their teaching skills, gaining valuable insights into lesson planning, creating interactive activities, managing classroom dynamics, and providing constructive feedback. 

Employers appreciate candidates with accredited TEFL qualifications because they possess the foundation to deliver effective language instruction and ensure student progress.

It ensures pre-existing familiarity with best practices and methodologies

Accredited TEFL programmes expose candidates to current best practices and methodologies in language teaching. Candidates learn about the communicative approach, which emphasises meaningful interaction and practical language use. They also explore learner-centred instruction, focusing on meeting individual needs and promoting active student participation. 

Additionally, accredited TEFL programmes integrate technology into the classroom, equipping candidates with the skills to incorporate digital resources and tools effectively. Employers value candidates who are well-versed in (or keen to learn about) these modern teaching methodologies, as they create dynamic and engaging learning environments that align with current educational trends.

It reinforces (and develops) cultural sensitivity and adaptability

Teaching English as a foreign language often involves working with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Accredited TEFL programmes recognise the importance of cultural sensitivity and intercultural communication skills in fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Candidates learn to appreciate and respect different cultures, acquiring cross-cultural competencies that enable them to effectively navigate cultural differences and address - and preempt - potential challenges. 

Employers value candidates with accredited TEFL qualifications because they can create a classroom atmosphere that promotes cultural understanding and respect. These candidates are better equipped to adapt their teaching methods to suit the needs and expectations of international students.

It sets the standards for quality assurance and risk mitigation

Accredited TEFL programmes undergo rigorous evaluation and recognition by reputable accrediting bodies. This recognition ensures that the programme meets established quality standards and adheres to industry best practices. By hiring candidates with accredited TEFL qualifications, employers mitigate the risks associated with substandard language lessons. Furthermore, accredited TEFL certificates provide employers with confidence in a candidate's competency and readiness to teach. 

The certification process verifies that candidates have acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver high-quality language instruction, reducing the need for extensive evaluation and training upon employment. Employers can rely on accredited TEFL certificates as a benchmark of quality assurance, streamlining the hiring process and ensuring the overall effectiveness of their language programmes.

Does accreditation in TEFL qualifications REALLY mean more to employers? - YES!

In a globalised world where English proficiency is highly valued to succeed in the job market, employers seek candidates who possess accredited TEFL certificates for several reasons. These candidates demonstrate professionalism, commitment, and enhanced teaching skills. They are familiar with best practices and methodologies, showcasing their ability to create dynamic and effective learning environments. Moreover, candidates with accredited TEFL qualifications possess cultural sensitivity and adaptability, crucial traits when working with diverse learners. 

Employers benefit from the quality assurance provided by accredited TEFL certificates, mitigating risks associated with substandard language instruction. Therefore, it is clear that employers have a preference for candidates with accredited TEFL qualifications, as they provide a reliable measure of competence and dedication in the field of English language teaching.