Does The Whole World Celebrate Valentine's Day

For both newly qualified and experienced teachers, one common concern when planning to teach English abroad is how to find accommodation that is comfortable, in a safe location and suitable for your personal needs. The good news is you are unlikely to be the first foreign teacher in the area you are heading for, so you will probably have several options to choose from. Here we break down the most common aspects of organizing accommodation when teaching abroad. For many teachers, accommodation is not an issue as employers often provide housing as part of the teaching contract. Schools in countries such as China and South Korea, as well as many countries in the Middle East, routinely provide some form of free or subsidized accommodation. If you sign-up for a government-run recruitment...  [Read more]

Every year tens of thousands of people from all backgrounds leave behind their existing life and head overseas in search of fun, travel and adventure. They are able to do this by completing a TEFL certification course that gives them all the qualifications they need to apply for English language teaching jobs in countries all over the world. If you want to join this ever growing number of TEFL qualified teachers, there should be very little that can get in your way. Among the many attractions of teaching English abroad is the fact that you are free to choose not only the region where you would like to work, but also the specific country or even city. For some teachers the history and culture of Europe appeals most, while others are drawn to exotic destinations across Asia or Latin...  [Read more]

If you plan on teaching English in Europe you might have come across something known as the Schengen Area. This area is currently comprised of 26 countries with a combined population of over 400 million people. The area was set up in 1985 with the intention of removing border controls to make moving between countries hassle free. The Schengen Area should not be confused with the European Union which is a separate institution. Before its creation you would have to show your passport at every border to receive an entry stamp, while now anyone including TEFL teachers can move freely from one country to another without any restrictions. Essentially, by entering a country that is a member of the Schengen Area you are entering the area as a whole. Regardless of which country you enter first, the...  [Read more]

Although it is theoretically possible to teach the English language without any form of training or qualifications, something that was quite common in years gone by, it is now almost universally accepted that the ability to speak a language has little bearing on an individual’s ability to teach it effectively to others. This change of attitude among school directors and education departments has led to the development of TEFL certification courses that are designed to give native and non-native English speakers the skills and knowledge they require to provide effective language instruction to their future students. So what does a TEFL course actually teach you? The mere mention of English grammar is often enough to strike fear into the hearts of potential EFL teachers. Ask any native...  [Read more]

Creating a supportive learning environment for TEFL students begins with setting clear expectations. Communicate the goals of the course, the learning outcomes, and the assessment criteria from the beginning. This helps students understand what is expected of them and reduces anxiety. Building rapport with students is also crucial. Get to know your students, their interests, backgrounds, and learning styles. Show empathy, respect, and understanding to create a positive and welcoming atmosphere in the classroom. To keep students motivated and engaged, incorporate interactive and engaging activities into your lessons. Use a variety of teaching methods such as group work, pair work, role-plays, games, and multimedia resources. Interactive activities not only make learning fun but also...  [Read more]

Australia's vibrant cultural landscape is deeply enriched by the diverse influences of its Indigenous peoples. From art and music to language and spirituality, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures have left an indelible mark on the country's identity. Let's delve into the myriad ways in which these ancient traditions continue to shape and inspire contemporary Australian society. One of the most prominent and celebrated aspects of Indigenous culture is its art. From intricate dot paintings to vibrant storytelling through traditional dance, Indigenous art serves as a powerful medium for preserving and sharing stories, histories, and spiritual beliefs. The iconic symbols and motifs found in Indigenous artwork reflect a deep connection to the land and the ancestral knowledge...  [Read more]

--- Intercultural understanding is a crucial aspect of teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) as it goes beyond language proficiency. It helps students develop empathy, respect, and open-mindedness towards different cultures, which are essential skills in today's interconnected world. By promoting intercultural understanding in the classroom, you can create a more inclusive and harmonious learning environment where students can learn from each other's diverse backgrounds and perspectives. 1. Cultural Exchange Activities: Encourage students to share aspects of their own culture such as food, music, festivals, and traditions. This can help foster a sense of pride in one's own culture while also increasing awareness and appreciation for other cultures. 2. Cross-Cultural Communication:...  [Read more]

When it comes to accents we all have one no matter where in the world we were brought up. Most of us are familiar with the basic differences between British and American accents, but what about accents from Australia and New Zealand, Canada and South Africa? And within each of these countries there are dozens of regional accents, just to complicate things further. So, we all have an accent, but is it a problem when teaching English as a foreign language? The first thing to remember is that there is no right or wrong accent when it comes to teaching and learning English. When teaching it is fine to speak naturally, just be sure that you always speak clearly and that all your instructions are fully understood by the whole class. Whether there is one accent that is better to teach than others...  [Read more]

From Sumo wrestling, the most authentic Japanese cuisine you’ve ever tasted, ancient castles and Pagodas, skiing in the mountainous north and beach hopping in the tropical south, ancient and bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka, Japan caters for every type of traveller. Japan is unlike any country you’ve ever been to with the most bizarre but fascinating experiences available throughout the country, and a scenery like no other. A distinct balance between ancient and modern- Japan opens up a whole new world. Nagoya is an ideal destination for an in-class, immersive TESOL course experience in Japan. It is the fourth largest city in Japan, which means that as a TESOL student, you get the full experience of high paced life in Japan, but at a much lower cost than bigger cities like the...  [Read more]

  Elias is from the United States and enjoyed working on our 120-hour online TEFL course. He enjoyed the 20 units and learned many new teaching skills. He is excited to start working abroad teaching English as a second language. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. I have been teaching for sometime now. The different levels of teaching styles are very helpful. The European council framework is a new thing to me, as I have never heard about this...  [Read more]

Teaching English as a Foreign Language is a career that is open to anyone with an excellent standard of written and spoken English, regardless of age, nationality, or academic history. All you need, apart from a solid understanding of the language, is a TEFL or TESOL certification and the drive to make your dreams come true. However, despite all the many benefits that await teachers heading overseas, there are also a few potential issues that you need to prepare for. So what are the main pros and cons of TEFL? Once you have completed your TEFL certification course you will be able to apply for teaching jobs in virtually any country you can think of. If you dream of living and working by a tropical beach, or if a major world city such as Tokyo, Milan, or Rio is your preference, no problem,...  [Read more]

Chiang Mai is the capital city of northern Thailand and it was once the center of the ancient Lanna Kingdom. It was founded in the 13th century and is one of the oldest cities in Thailand. The Lanna Kingdom might not exist in the 21st century, but shadows of its rich culture can still be seen today. The outskirts of Chiang Mai are full of small mountains, meandering rivers, gentle waterfalls and countless Buddhist monasteries. If you’re looking for a great experience while conducting your teacher training, Chiang Mai is a great choice for your TEFL International course. Chiang Mai is an essential destination for anyone visiting Thailand. It sits roughly 350 miles northwest of Bangkok and offers countless temples to visit—more than 120 are within city limits. The Old Town is surrounded...  [Read more]

Home / CELTA Trinity Courses / Torbay If you plan on completing a CELTA course in the U.K., you should seriously consider the Torbay training center as your destination. The center is ideally situated within a short walk of the beach, as well as plenty of other entertainment options, including go-karting, a waterpark, cinemas, and a range of cafes, bars and restaurants. If you want to spread your wings in the local area you can also explore some fascinating towns and villages, such as the buzzing resort of Torquay, the historic fishing port of Brixham, and the peaceful market town of Totnes. Torbay is truly blessed with stunning scenery in the surrounding area, with miles of beautiful coastline and the rugged splendour of Dartmoor National Park just waiting to be explored....  [Read more]

Home / CELTA Trinity Courses / Torbay If you plan on completing a CELTA course in the U.K., you should seriously consider the Torbay training center as your destination. The center is ideally situated within a short walk of the beach, as well as plenty of other entertainment options, including go-karting, a waterpark, cinemas, and a range of cafes, bars and restaurants. If you want to spread your wings in the local area you can also explore some fascinating towns and villages, such as the buzzing resort of Torquay, the historic fishing port of Brixham, and the peaceful market town of Totnes. Torbay is truly blessed with stunning scenery in the surrounding area, with miles of beautiful coastline and the rugged splendour of Dartmoor National Park just waiting to be explored....  [Read more]

  Within the teaching of ESL throughout the world, there is a whole spectrum of the types of groups that you may be involved in. It's worth breaking those types of groups down to have a look at some of the more specific things we need to do when we're teaching those groups - and this is what this video focuses on. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to grips with each section before moving onto the next. In this unit, I am exposed to model verbs, their usage, the active and passive voice, relative...  [Read more]

The first major factor that has an impact on how long it will take to get TEFL certified is which type of course you choose to take. There are three main TEFL course types to be aware of: The most common form of in-person TEFL course is the four-week, 120-hour TEFL certificate. Trainees on this course usually travel from their home country to one of many locations around the world to take the course. Courses should involve a theory component, covering language awareness and teaching skills, and a practical teaching component where trainees teach classes of real English language learners and receive feedback. These courses usually take four weeks to complete and therefore some form of accommodation is required for the duration of the course. This and the travel aspect, make this form of...  [Read more]

One of the best ways to celebrate cultural diversity in the TEFL classroom is by incorporating cultural activities and holidays from around the world. This can include celebrating traditional festivals, such as Chinese New Year, Diwali, or Thanksgiving, through activities like crafts, cooking traditional dishes, or learning about the history and significance of the holiday. By exposing students to different cultural practices and traditions, you can help them develop a greater appreciation for diversity and broaden their worldview. Another effective way to celebrate cultural diversity in the TEFL classroom is by using literature and media from different cultures. Introducing students to literature, films, music, and art from various countries can help them gain insights into different...  [Read more]

Our TEFL course in Guatemala is located in one of Central America’s best-kept secrets. La Antigua is a thriving former capital and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Throughout the city you can find well preserved examples of colonial architecture as well as fascinating ruins and the city has rightly been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit to Guatemala is like stepping into another world with Mayan ruins, colonial buildings and cobbled streets all resting in the shadows of magnificent volcanoes. At 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level, La Antigua’s location in the central highlands of Guatemala make it the ideal jumping off point for trips to the Pacific coast, the beautiful Lake Atitlan and the Mayan ruins in Tikal. In addition to all that...  [Read more]

Phuket is a fantastic tropical paradise. Nestled in the crystal clear, relaxing waters off the south-west coast of Thailand, Phuket (pronounced, “Poo-ket”) has rightfully earned the name, “Pearl of the Andaman Sea”. Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and offers a wide variety of things to see and do. The island’s cities are safe and offer modern technology. Its famous nightlife is surrounded by quiet countryside, rolling mountains, lush jungle, historic temples and gentle waterfalls. Even the well-traveled know it’s difficult to find so many offerings on one island. Phuket’s breath-taking beaches also offer similar variety. Famous, Patong Beach bustles with activity year-round, yet the Zen-like beaches of Mai Khao and Layan remain sublimely sparse through high season. Even...  [Read more]

Globalization and the increasing demand for English speaking professionals all over the world, especially in emerging regions, has brought about a new, steadily growing sector: English as a Second Language (ESL). An ESL teacher is, therefore, an educator who works with English Language Learners (ELLs) whose native language is not English. The goal of the ESL teacher is to help the students reach a certain level of fluency in English, on both a spoken and written level. ESL educators are not to be confused with foreign language teachers. ESL teachers do not share the same native language and are specifically trained to offer explanations and directed teaching methods to non-English speakers. This teaching style is mainly focused on repetition, drills, demonstrations, and visuals. ...  [Read more]

Ireland is a difficult place to get a TEFL job for anyone who does not live in the country or who does not have an EU passport. Most TEFL Jobs are available in Dublin, but this is an expensive city to live in. It can be cheaper to live outside of Dublin, but then there are fewer positions available. Dublin has a lot of language schools, and you may get one of these jobs, but the work may not be consistent, and the pay may not be able to meet your expenses. Aside from TEFL Jobs at private language schools, positions are available at universities and colleges as well. Many jobs are available during the summer holiday months of June to September. If you hold a passport from an EU country, you will not need to get a work visa. Ireland offers a Student Work Abroad Program, which can provide...  [Read more]

  Jessica from Holland completed the 120-hour TESOL course with tutor support and videos. Jessica tells us in this TESOL review that she found the course to be very useful and felt that she learned a lot from taking it. Not only does the course come with useful teaching tips, graduates also receive lifetime employment support to help with finding a job on completing the course. Jessica recommends the course for anyone wanting to start a career in English language teaching. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you can quickly get to...  [Read more]

  Leslie is a Canadian English teacher at a junior high school in the Japanese countryside. In this TESOL review, Leslie tells us she is looking to open her own English language day care centre at her home and with this in mind she took the 120-hour certificate course with ITTT as well as the 50-hour young learners course to bring her qualifications up to date. Hopefully for Leslie this will be the first step on a rewarding career as the owner of a successful English language school in Japan. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL certification course. Each of our online courses is broken down into concise units that focus on specific areas of English language teaching. This convenient, highly structured design means that you...  [Read more]

Teaching English in any environment offers a wide variety of benefits that will enhance your future career, whatever path you choose to follow. If your English teaching experience also included an extended period living and working outside of your home country, then this will certainly look very appealing on your resume when applying for other jobs further down the line. In the modern age where every job seems to have a huge number of applicants and everyone seems to have a degree or other high-end qualifications, being able to add an overseas teaching adventure to your application could well be the difference between securing an interview and being put at the bottom of the pile. So what are the major benefits that teaching English abroad adds to your CV/resume? This is the most obvious...  [Read more]

ITTT’s Chongqing TEFL training center gives attendees the chance to study an in-class TEFL course in just three weeks. This is the perfect option for trainees who want to attend a classroom based course but have time restrictions. Chongqing is a busy industrial city in southwest China located on the Yangzi River. The city has a population of over 18 million people and is an important transport hub and manufacturing base. Famous for its spicy cuisine which makes extensive use of Sichuan pepper, Chongqing attracts visitors from all over the country looking to try its most famous dish, Chongqing hot pot. This spicy broth is available at thousands of hot pot restaurants around the city and is celebrated in a yearly hot pot festival when over ten thousand hot pot restaurants give discounts...  [Read more]

  We now consider what we might call the technology that we could use within the classroom then that could include things such as cassettes, the use of CDs, the use of DVD and video. Some general issues surrounding the use of these types of material, make sure whenever you're using any of this type of technology though you know how it actually works when using it for a listening activity, for example. How long does it take for the whole tape to play through? How long does it take to rewind and so on. Other issues that you might need to think about is if you're using a cassette player or CD or something that you set the volume level before you actually start the lesson so that when you switch on you don't shock everyone with a very loud sound or that they can't actually hear it....  [Read more]

  Our next consideration is going to be how we actually group our students. There are perhaps three types of grouping arrangements that we can consider and within those we'll have a look at the potential positive and negatives of those particular arrangements. So firstly, what arrangements can we use? We could arrange our group as a whole class so all of their activities will be done as a whole class. They could be working as individuals and the final grouping arrangement we'll consider is that of small groups or indeed the use of pair work. So for each of these types of arrangements what are the potential positive and negatives with that type of arrangement? For the whole class certainly one of the main positive features is that it gives that class a sense of belonging. Secondly...  [Read more]

Uruguay is South America’s hidden gem, known for its relaxed lifestyle and widely considered one of the most stable nations in South America. Whether you want a city that’s rich in history and culture, rural areas filled with nature and high-quality wineries, or charming, picturesque beach towns, you’ll find a laid-back vibe, high quality of life, and friendly, welcoming communities. Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, is filled with charm has a charming, old-world feel. Located near the coast, it boasts a waterfront promenade, or rambla, that stretches 13 miles long. Along the rambla, you’ll see locals walking, running, socializing, and enjoying sunsets. The Ciudad Vieja, or the Old City, is Montevideo’s historic quarter, which is filled with cafes, museums, theatres, outdoor...  [Read more]

For many people, quintessential Greece is what comes to mind when they think of the beautiful island of Santorini, the most southern of the Cyclades islands. The island is actually made up of 5 islands, with Santorini being joined by Thirasia and Aspronisi and the volcanic islands of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni. With stunning scenery all around you, Santorini really is an ideal place to take your TEFL course. During the volcanic eruptions of 1866-1870, the area was visited by Jules Verne. He then immortalized Santorini in his books “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea” and “The Mysterious Island’. Here captain Nemo and his crew watched the famous eruptions. The Caldera View is one of the most breathtaking sites in the entire world. The Santorini Caldera view includes 85-meter...  [Read more]

Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles. The culture is warm, friendly and genuine. There is a big expat community out there, so you’re in a new and exciting culture but also engaging with many different cultures through the expat network as well. The travel opportunities are wonderful, either around Thailand itself or to neighboring countries. AND the food is delicious and fresh! Hua Hin is a beautiful city on the beach in central Thailand, approximately two and a half hours away from Bangkok. The area has some amazing beaches, mountains, viewpoints, temples, night markets, water parks, and dining experiences for you to choose from and enjoy at any time of the year. Hua Hin itself features a beautiful, powdery sand beach, plenty of waterside seafood restaurants, a lively night market...  [Read more]