Hello,
I know I've already posted a couple of times for basic advice, but my projected plans are changing as I do more research. I'd really appreciate some advice.
I have a BA in Philosophy and an MA in Social and Political Thought, both studied on campus at universities in the UK. I am looking for a career change and I would like to see some of the world before I get too old to make the change (I'm 37). I am planning to do a CELTA course and find work abroad, then maybe consider doing a higher qualification when I've got some experience.
Will my MA help me to get a better teaching job abroad once I have done a CELTA course? What are the best countries to apply in to take advantage of this? What sort of institutions?
I am also wondering about the relative benefits of doing the CELTA course at home in Manchester or in the country where I intend to work. Any thoughts on this?
Thanks, Michael.
Taking advantage of my MA
Moderator: Joe
Re: Taking advantage of my MA
I see no benefits to doing a CELTA in the country where you intend to work. Where do you intend to work? You don't know. If you do a CELTA in country X does that mean you cannot work in country Y? I don't think so.
Re: Taking advantage of my MA
I see one benefit to doing the CELTA in the country where you want to work: the tutors on the course sometimes have contacts in local schools. This can help when looking for work. This happens sometimes, not all the time; you can ask about help with career placement before signing up to a course.
Apart from that, there is no difference.
Apart from that, there is no difference.
Re: Taking advantage of my MA
Some in-country course providers actually make more money by placing teachers than by training them. This must be a personal decision, but I have never seen the value of tying oneself to a TEFL course through their offers (sometimes "guarantees") of job placements. If you can't find work yourself with a CELTA (and two degrees) you should perhaps be looking at a different career :mrgreen:
Note that some course providers specifically refuse to offer job placements of any kind to avoid conflicts of interest.
Note that some course providers specifically refuse to offer job placements of any kind to avoid conflicts of interest.
Re: Taking advantage of my MA
Thanks for those helpful and sensible replies.
Does anyone have any response to my first question, about the best way to take advantage of my MA in a TEFL career?
Does anyone have any response to my first question, about the best way to take advantage of my MA in a TEFL career?