Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a rewarding career that allows you to travel, experience new cultures and help students achieve their language goals. Whether you want to teach abroad or online, proper training is essential to becoming an effective and confident English teacher. This guide will walk you through the steps to become a TEFL teacher.
1. Understand the Role of a TEFL Teacher
Before you start training, it is essential to understand what being a TEFL teacher involves. Your responsibilities will include:
- Planning and delivering engaging English lessons
- Teaching grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and communication skills
- Managing a classroom and adapting to different learning styles
- Assessing students’ progress and providing constructive feedback
2. Meet the Basic Requirements
Most TEFL training programmes have minimal entry requirements, making it an accessible career path. Generally, you will need:
- A high school diploma (some programmes may require a degree)
- Proficiency in English (native or near-native level)
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
3. Choose the Right TEFL Certification
A TEFL certification is the most recognised qualification for teaching English abroad or online. There are different types of certifications available:
- TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) – The most common qualification for teaching non-native speakers.
- TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) – Often interchangeable with TEFL but more commonly used in North America.
- CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) – A prestigious certification offered by Cambridge, ideal for those seeking high-quality training and competitive job placements.
What to Look for in a TEFL Course
When choosing a TEFL course, ensure it meets the following criteria:
- At least 120 hours of training (the industry standard for most teaching jobs)
- Accreditation by a recognised body (e.g. the British Council, ACCET, or Ofqual)
- Opportunities for practical teaching experience
- Flexible learning options (online, in-person, or a mixture of the two)
4. Gain Teaching Experience
Even after completing a TEFL course, hands-on teaching experience is invaluable. Some ways to gain experience include:
- Volunteering at local language schools or community centres
- Offering private tutoring to ESL students
- Teaching online via platforms like iTalki, Preply, or Cambly
- Completing a teaching practicum as part of your TEFL course
5. Specialise in a Niche
To stand out as a TEFL teacher, consider specialising in a niche area, such as:
- Business English – Teaching professionals in corporate settings
- Young Learners – Focusing on children and teenagers
- Exam Preparation – Helping students prepare for IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge exams
- Online Teaching – Using digital tools and interactive methods for virtual classrooms
6. Search for TEFL Jobs
Once you have your certification and some experience, it’s time to start job hunting. Here’s where to look:
- TEFL job boards (e.g. TEFL.com, ESL Cafe, and GoAbroad)
- Recruitment agencies specialising in TEFL placements
- Direct applications to schools and language institutes abroad
- Online teaching platforms for remote positions
7. Continue Professional Development
To grow in your career, keep learning and improving your teaching skills. Some ways to do this include:
- Taking advanced TEFL courses or certifications (e.g. DELTA, MA in TESOL)
- Attending teaching workshops and conferences
- Joining TEFL communities and networking with fellow educators
- Keeping up to date with language teaching methodologies and technology
Conclusion
Training to become a TEFL teacher is an exciting and fulfilling journey that opens doors to global opportunities. By obtaining a reputable TEFL certification, gaining experience, and continuously developing your skills, you can build a successful career teaching English as a foreign language. Whether you choose to teach in a classroom abroad or from the comfort of your home, your impact on students’ lives will be invaluable.
Are you ready to embark on your TEFL journey? Then start exploring accredited TEFL courses today and take the first step toward your teaching adventure!