CELTA is an initial teaching qualification for people with little or no previous teaching experience and is one of the most widely taken qualifications of its kind. It is accepted throughout the world by organisations which employ English language teachers.
Throughout the course, trainees learn the essential techniques of teaching. The sessions are practical rather than theoretical and look at ideas that can be immediately used in the classroom.
- learners, teachers, and the teaching and learning context
- language analysis and awareness
- language skills; speaking, listening, reading and writing
- planning and resources for different teaching contexts
- developing teaching skills and professionalism
There is no final examination. Instead, there are two components of assessment:
- teaching practice (six hours assessed)
- written assignments (four)
Watching trained teachers is an essential component of the course and there are 6 hours in total; three of these are live observations.
The 120 hour face-to-face course also requires trainees to undertake extensive work at home which includes lesson planning, reading and research. Trainees also have to write four assignments and maintain a portfolio.
Many trainees spend around three hours each evening and most of the weekend doing CELTA work whilst they are on the course. Some trainees spend more time than this.
Applicants should:
- have competence in spoken and written English that enables them to undertake the course (near 1st language level / C1 on the Common European Framework)
- have a standard of education which would allow entry to higher education in their country
- be at least 20 years of age at the beginning of the course
- have a keen interest in, and the ability to analyse language
Take a look at the Cambridge University ESOL website which gives you more information about the course and the opportunities it provides.
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