Online TEFL certificates do not expire, they are valid for life. Once you have successfully completed your training and have received your certificate you can use it to land a teaching job straight away or you can keep it for a later date. By gaining a TEFL certification you will be in possession of a very versatile qualification that can be used to secure employment in any country around the world at any time you choose.
Do I need to take any extra online TEFL courses?
While your new TEFL certification is valid for life, you should still consider adding additional qualifications to your portfolio in order to further develop your teaching skills and knowledge. By completing specialized courses such as the certificate in teaching business English (CTBE), the certificate in teaching English to young learners (CTEYL) and the certificate in teaching English online (CTEO) you will significantly increase your knowledge of specific areas of EFL teaching and improve your general classroom skills. Additionally, by taking an advanced level Diploma in TESOL you can potentially secure higher paid jobs and positions that would otherwise be unobtainable.
When is an online TEFL refresher course necessary?
During your initial TEFL certification course you will learn about a range of important teaching skills such as lesson planning, classroom management and correction techniques. Other subjects including English grammar and phonology will also be covered in some depth as they are highly important in any EFL teaching scenario. While working in the classroom much of this knowledge will probably remain fresh in your memory, however, if you plan to return to teaching after a spell away from the classroom you might find that some of it is not as clear as it should be. In situations such as this, you will find that a TEFL refresher course is a good way to get back up to speed on all the most important areas of EFL teaching.
