Hi All
I’m hoping someone on this forum could offer me a little advice on the likelihood of making a success of teaching in this field long term.
I’ve considered TEFL teaching for over ten years now, but never really had the impetus to follow it through. Now as I reach tail end of my twenties, I’m beginning to tentatively explore my options but would welcome advice from those with experience in the field.
A cursory overview of my circumstances:
I’m in my late twenties, with no direct teaching experience behind me at this moment in time. However, I have worked in social services and in a role working directly with children and young families. I have also worked mentoring ‘hard to reach’ young people (15-21). I have experience of delivering sessions to large groups of young people that is analogous to teaching. I currently have a full CRB too- yay!
I am a UK citizen with a passport with a lot of life left on it.
I have a degree in English Language and Linguistics (BA). I would look to carry out a 120hour TEFL qualification; if that’s my best course of action.
I'd hope to embark on teaching abroad as early as summer 2013 as I currently have work commitments, and would like to build up some just-in-case-cash. I would also consider undertaking a post-graduate teacher training qualification if essential.
Although I would- initially at least, be seeking to teach and travel (probably short contracts of around 4-6 months if possible) I would, in the long term, like to find work that is both stable and remunerative.
As I say at this moment I am less than a rookie so if my ambitions sound a bit too lofty please be tactful, I’m aware they might be and would welcome feedback that might give me a realistic idea of my chances.
Thanks
Looking for advice on taking up a career in teaching.
Moderator: Joe
Re: Looking for advice on taking up a career in teaching.
Hi iapetus,
Sounds like you're looking for advice in the right place!
Firstly I will say that your degree in English Language & Linguistics is pretty relevant to the field you are looking to go into and I'd definitely recommend doing a TEFL course.
Most reputable schools are accredited by the British Council and so to be an EFL teacher you must have a degree and a CELTA (or equivalent - being 120 hours and at least 6 hours of observed practicum). Be careful of the online courses as these are not reputable and aren't recognised as a CELTA equivalent.
Lots of people to decide to change their careers to teaching and if you are seriously considering it, I think it would definitely be worth doing the qualification.
Where do you want to teach? UK or abroad?
Hope this has helped! :-)
Sounds like you're looking for advice in the right place!
Firstly I will say that your degree in English Language & Linguistics is pretty relevant to the field you are looking to go into and I'd definitely recommend doing a TEFL course.
Most reputable schools are accredited by the British Council and so to be an EFL teacher you must have a degree and a CELTA (or equivalent - being 120 hours and at least 6 hours of observed practicum). Be careful of the online courses as these are not reputable and aren't recognised as a CELTA equivalent.
Lots of people to decide to change their careers to teaching and if you are seriously considering it, I think it would definitely be worth doing the qualification.
Where do you want to teach? UK or abroad?
Hope this has helped! :-)
Re: Looking for advice on taking up a career in teaching.
As long as you are willing to be flexible about location, all that sounds like the right plan and is perfectly feasible, including finding a stable and okay paid job (probably in three or four years after also taking a post-experience MA or diploma in TEFL such as the Cambridge Delta).