Why TEFL course training can be essential

Postbox letter from Joe

There are several advantages to having a TEFL certificate compared to not having one, including increased employability, improved classroom management, and a deeper understanding of teaching techniques and methodologies.

Getting started as an English teacher

A quick overview of TEFL certificates, degrees, work permits and visas

If you didn’t go to university, don’t pretend that you did. You may be able to bluff your way through an interview and produce a certificate upon which the ink has just dried; however, all it takes is one phone call to immigration and you won’t just lose your job, you could lose your freedom.

Continuing professional development (CPD) for English language teachers

There are plenty of ways to help you improve as a teacher

In reality, there is only so much that a training course can squeeze into the time available, and there is only so much a beginner can learn about teaching before actually starting to do it.

Are TEFL teachers unambitious?

What can you do about it if you feel you're stuck in a 'teaching rut'?

So many people complain about conditions, wages and opportunities but do nothing to address these things. Some TEFL teachers seem to think this isn’t an industry or a “real” job so other aspects such as annual reviews and training aren’t relevant.

So what can you do with a TEFL/TESOL certificate?

One teacher's TEFL journey

My first introduction the TEFL/TESOL world was an online TEFL certificate. Online was chosen because I was working on a cruise ship and obviously couldn't attend physical classes. I then finished the cruise ship work and wanted to live and work in Asia.

Farewell to a TEFL legend

A larger-than-life character who wore many hats

Thailand's English teaching industry is in mourning with the sad news that James Parmelee, the owner of Text and Talk Thailand, has passed away in Bangkok.

Home or away?

Where is the best place to do a TEFL course - Thailand or your own country?

A good question that occasionally pops up on social media is “should I take a TEFL course in Thailand or in my home country (USA, England, etc)? I’ve noticed that the question never really gets a decent answer, so I turned to a dozen or so of Thailand’s TEFL course providers and asked them for their input.

Becoming a TEFL 'lifer'

Into my third year as a teacher in Myanmar

What happens in year two and three of an ESL journey is up to you, but it's probably going to include getting more serious about what you do.

A lesson for experienced teachers in surviving the CELTA

Sometimes you have to unlearn what you've learned

Do a little research or talk to people who've completed their CELTA and you'll find that experienced teachers are often the ones who have the hardest time with the rigors of the course.