Teaching is a rewarding and challenging career, but how do you know if teaching is right for you? We get asked this question a lot, so we’ve put together a checklist to help you determine why you should consider a career in teaching.
Academic qualifications
To begin your career in teaching, you’ll need a qualification. There are many qualifications and education pathways available, and your requirements will depend on the type of teaching you want to do.
To become a qualified English language teacher, at minimum, you will need to complete a certification in Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). There are several TEFL course to choose from; however, we recommend you choose a qualification that is globally recognised. Such qualifications include; the Trinity College London Certificate in TESOL and the Cambridge English Language Assessment Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA).
Which qualification is better, Trinity CertTESOL or Cambridge CELTA?
Both the Trinity CertTESOL and the Cambridge CELTA are globally recognised qualifications and follow a similar course structure. Both courses teach the practical, analytical and English language skills required to be an English teacher and provide at least 6 hours of guided teaching practice. To undertake either course you will need a minimum of CEFR C1 in English language proficiency.
The Trinity CertTESOL in addition delivers a unit to help students understand what it’s like to learn a new language. Known as the ‘Unknown Language Unit’ this component helps develop your understanding of learning a foreign language, increases your insight into learning languages and helps you to empathise with your students.
OI Digital institute is certified by Trinity College London to deliver the Trinity CertTESOL, and we can help you gain your initial qualification in English language teaching. You can study your Trinity CertTESOL online with us both full time (over 4 weeks) or part-time (over 12 weeks). In addition to your live classes, you’ll be expected to complete at least 60 hours of independent study.
What is the DipTESOL?
The Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages is an internationally recognised Level 7 (Ofqual) qualification. This master’s level degree, qualifies holders to gain roles such as examiners, teacher educators, centre managers, director of studies and more.
The DipTESOL is for experienced teachers looking to take the next step in their teaching career or seeking higher levels of employment within the education industry. You will need to have completed a bachelor’s level qualification in any discipline and have at least two years of full-time ESOL teaching experience. Learn more about our online Diploma in TESOL here.
Do I need a CertTESOL to do a DipTESOL?
No, you do not need a Trinity CertTESOL or Cambridge CELTA, however, these certifications would assist in your application. Your TEFL experience and your most significant academic qualifications will be rigorously checked as part of your application and you will need to have at least a CEFR C1 level English language proficiency.
What type of person makes a good teacher?
Teachers are from all backgrounds and walks of life, but they possess common characteristics that help them succeed in the education industry.
Personal Characteristics that will help you as a teacher
Great communication skills
Teachers are great communicators. They need to be able to often take complex concepts and convey meaning in simplified terminology. Teachers also use their communications skills to build trust, relationships and to provide constructive feedback. Excellent written and verbal communications skills are vital to help a student to learn and reach their language goals.
Well organised
Teaching is more than simply conveying a concept; there’s also the important administrative and personal work that comes with the job. Tracking pupil development, preparing reports, and administering examinations are all part of teaching and you’ll need to be well organised to stay on top of the demanding workload.
Resilience and energy
Teaching is both intellectually, physically and emotionally demanding. You’ll be challenged as a teacher but if you’re motivated and capable of coping with the stresses of the day to day requirements, then you’ll reap great rewards from teaching. Motivating others to learn requires energy and expertise but can be incredibly satisfying to see the impact you’ve had on your student’s development.
Flexibility
The classroom is a highly dynamic environment. Each day and class will be different and you’ll need to be able to think quickly and adapt to each scenario. This flexibility comes with practice but can be a vital skill for teaching students of any age. Our Trinity CertTESOL course will provide you with at least 6 hours of guided teaching practice, helping you to develop your flexibility when you enter your classroom.
Teaching English is a fantastic career that can take you anywhere in the world. Becoming a successful teacher takes dedication, passion and the right qualifications, but it is a profoundly rewarding job. To begin your journey to becoming a qualified and experienced English language teacher join us for the Trinity CertTESOL. To learn more visit:
Trinity CertTESOL Full Time Course
