How to Become an EFL Teacher: A Quick Guide
Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a rewarding and transformative experience. You can teach English abroad or online, and it opens doors not only for yourself but also for those who wish to learn English. This article will guide you through the essential steps on how to become an EFL teacher and help you embark on an adventure of a lifetime!
Before diving into the specifics, let’s clarify what TEFL entails. TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) involves teaching English to individuals whose native language is not English. This can be done either online or abroad and you can teach students of all ages.
EFL teachers play a vital role in facilitating language acquisition, empowering students to communicate effectively in English, and helping them in their academic, professional, and personal lives.
In recent years, the demand for proficient English speakers has surged, making EFL teachers essential in various parts of the world. They’re pretty popular online too!
So, how do you become an EFL teacher?
5 Steps to Becoming an EFL Teacher
If you want to become an EFL teacher and start teaching English abroad or online, there are a few steps you’ll need to complete first.
Get Qualified
To become a competent EFL teacher and get a job teaching English abroad or online, it’s essential to possess certain qualifications and skills. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
TEFL Certification
Investing in a reputable TEFL certification course is a pivotal step in your journey. You won’t get a TEFL job if you’re not TEFL certified, so you’ll need to complete a TEFL course if you haven’t already done so.
TEFL courses, ranging from 120 to 300 hours, provide prospective English teachers with the necessary teaching methodologies, classroom management techniques, and practical experience they need to begin teaching.
Many institutions offer accredited TEFL courses and you can do them online or in class. So, choose one that aligns with your preferences and career goals.
How to Choose a Course
Here are a few quick pointers to help you choose the right TEFL course:
- Accreditation: Ensure that the course you choose is accredited by reputable organizations in the field. An accredited TEFL certification demonstrates that the course meets industry standards and is recognized by employers worldwide.
- Practical Training: Look for courses that include practical training components, such as teaching practice sessions. These hands-on experiences will prepare you for real classroom scenarios and build your confidence as a teacher.
- Job Placement Assistance: Some TEFL courses offer job placement assistance, connecting graduates with teaching opportunities around the world. This can be a valuable resource, especially if you’re new to the field and navigating job searches in different countries.
- Online vs. In-Person Courses: Consider your learning style and preferences when choosing between online and in-person courses. In-person courses provide immediate feedback and a more immersive experience, while online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace.
If you want to take your course online, start by taking a look at the best online TEFL courses. These TEFL programs will provide you with the best training and set you off on the right foot. However, if you don’t have the budget for one of these courses there are some cheap TEFL courses available too, which still do the job.
Doing a TEFL program abroad can be a bit more expensive, but it is a great experience and gives you the best chance of getting a job. This is because you’re immediately plugged into the network there and many course providers offer a guaranteed job after you complete the course. So, once you have your TEFL certificate you can often start teaching right away!
Educational Qualifications
Some employers require a bachelor’s degree for TEFL positions. While the field is relatively open to various majors, having a degree in English, education, or a related field may give you a competitive edge.
If you don’t have a degree don’t fret, as there are still countries and companies where you can teach English without a degree.
Different countries and employers may have specific requirements, so it’s crucial to research and understand the expectations in your desired destination.
Language Proficiency
Having a strong command of the English language is fundamental. As an EFL teacher, you will be a model for correct pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary usage. Demonstrating fluency in English and a clear accent will enhance your students’ learning experience.
Gain Practical Experience
While your TEFL course provides valuable theoretical knowledge, gaining practical experience is equally crucial if you haven’t already secured a job.
Here’s how you can enhance your teaching skills through hands-on practice:
Volunteer or Internship Opportunities
Consider participating in TEFL internships, doing volunteer work abroad or even closer to home to gain practical experience. Local community centers, language schools, or online platforms may offer opportunities for you to practice your teaching skills in a supportive environment.
Practice Teaching Sessions
Organize practice teaching sessions with friends, family, or language exchange partners. This allows you to apply what you’ve learned in your TEFL course, receive constructive feedback, and refine your teaching techniques.
Observing Experienced Teachers
Observing experienced EFL teachers in action provides valuable insights. Attend language classes, workshops, or webinars to observe different teaching styles, classroom management strategies, and effective communication techniques.
Peer Feedback
Collaborate with fellow TEFL students or aspiring teachers to exchange feedback on practice teaching sessions. Constructive criticism and suggestions from peers can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your teaching approach.
Teach Students Independently
You don’t have to wait to get a job with an employer before you start teaching English. Once you’ve completed your TEFL certification program and obtained your TEFL certificate, you can advertise your tutoring services on one of the many online learning platforms.
At this stage, the key is getting some teaching experience under your belt so make sure you set your prices to attract students. You don’t want to price yourself out of the market before you start!
Craft a Standout TEFL CV/Resume
As you prepare to enter the job market, a well-crafted TEFL resume and cover letter are essential tools. Here’s how you can make your application stand out:
- Highlight Your TEFL Certification: Emphasize your TEFL certification prominently on your resume. Include details such as the course duration, accreditation, and any specialized areas of focus, such as teaching young learners or business English.
- Showcase Relevant Experience: Detail any relevant teaching or language-related experience on your resume. Highlighting volunteer work, internships, or previous teaching roles, even if not in a formal classroom setting, demonstrates your commitment to education.
- Tailor Your Application: Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application. Highlight specific skills, experiences, and qualifications that align with the requirements of the position. This shows employers that you’ve taken the time to understand their needs.
Learn how to write a TEFL CV.
Navigating the Job Search
Once your TEFL CV is polished and your cover letter is tailored, it’s time to navigate the job search. Here are some strategies to find TEFL teaching opportunities:
Online Job Boards
Explore online job boards dedicated to TEFL and ESL positions. Websites such as Dave’s ESL Cafe and TEFL.com list a variety of teaching opportunities worldwide. Filter your search based on location, salary, and job requirements.
Recruitment Agencies
Consider working with TEFL recruitment agencies that specialize in connecting teachers with international schools and language institutions. These agencies can provide valuable guidance, support, and assistance in securing teaching positions. However, you shouldn’t pay someone to place you in a job.
Networking
Build a professional network within the TEFL community. Attend conferences, workshops, or online forums where you can connect with experienced teachers, recruiters, and fellow TEFL professionals. Networking can open doors to hidden job opportunities and provide valuable insights into the industry.
Direct Applications
If you have a specific destination or institution in mind, don’t hesitate to submit direct applications. Research potential employers, understand their requirements, and showcase how your skills align with their needs in your cover letter.
Excelling in TEFL Interviews
Once you start receiving interview invitations, it’s time to prepare for success. Here’s how to excel in TEFL interviews:
Showcase Your Teaching Philosophy
Be prepared to articulate your teaching philosophy during interviews. Discuss your approach to lesson planning, classroom management, and adapting to diverse student needs. Emphasize your commitment to not only imparting language skills but also cultivating a love for learning and cultural exchange in your classroom.
Highlight your belief in student-centered learning, where active participation and engagement are encouraged to foster a deeper understanding of the English language. Discuss your strategies for addressing various learning styles and language proficiency levels within the same classroom, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability.
Additionally, emphasize your commitment to ongoing professional development, showcasing your willingness to stay informed about innovative teaching methodologies and incorporate them into your lessons. By showcasing a well-defined teaching philosophy, you not only demonstrate your preparedness for the role but also provide insight into the positive impact you aim to make on your students’ language acquisition journey.
TEFL Demo Lessons
Once you’ve successfully navigated the initial stages of the application process and secured an interview, you’ll likely be asked to conduct a demo lesson. This is your opportunity to bring your teaching philosophy to life and demonstrate your practical skills.
These demonstrations provide prospective employers with a firsthand look at your teaching abilities, style, and how you interact with students.
Here’s a closer look at how to approach TEFL demo lessons:
Start by carefully reviewing any guidelines or topics provided by the employer and tailor your lesson plan accordingly. Focus on engaging, student-centered activities that promote active participation and language practice.
Begin with a warm-up to create a positive and inclusive atmosphere, followed by the main teaching points, and conclude with a meaningful wrap-up that reinforces key concepts. During the demo lesson, be mindful of your pacing, encourage student interaction, and showcase your ability to adapt to unexpected situations.
If you can, emphasize your proficiency in using a variety of teaching tools and technology, demonstrating your versatility in creating a dynamic and effective learning environment. Remember to incorporate elements that showcase your classroom management skills and your ability to address different learning styles within a diverse student group.
Your ability to effectively deliver a TEFL demo lesson not only reflects your teaching capabilities but also provides a glimpse into your personality. Be prepared to receive feedback and showcase your willingness to reflect on your teaching methods.
By approaching TEFL demo lessons with confidence, creativity, and adaptability, you can leave a lasting impression on potential employers, increasing your chances of securing that coveted TEFL teaching position.
Start Teaching English!
The final step, start teaching English. If you’ve made it this far and secured a position as an English teacher, congratulations! Whether you’re teaching English abroad or teaching English online, being an EFL teacher is a great way to make some money and lets you explore the world at the same time. So, get out there and start teaching!
