How Old Do You Have To Be To Teach

  Is a lack of teaching experience or relevant qualifications holding you back from starting a new career as an EFL teacher, or are you worried that you might be too old to find employment? Well, don’t be. As the demand for new teachers is so strong in many parts of the world, there are plenty of jobs available no matter what your age or background. Previous teaching experience is rarely a requirement for the majority of positions. The truth is that the vast majority of people currently teaching English around the world had no experience of teaching before they landed their current role. Academic qualifications are also not necessary in many cases. Teaching jobs in some countries are restricted to degree holders only, but there are many others without any such regulations. Age is...  [Read more]

  Jo Ann took the 120-hour online TEFL course with tutor support from ITTT. In this TEFL review video Jo Ann tells how she completed the course in six weeks and despite not needing the tutor support, was glad that is was there if necessary. Jo Ann is now volunteering her time as an English tutor at her local library and plans to move to Santiago in Chile for a year to teach English. It should be noted that volunteering your services as an English teacher at your local library or community centre is not only a great way to do something for your community, it is also an excellent means of gaining classroom experience to add to you CV or resume before heading out to teach English abroad. Below you can read feedback from an ITTT graduate regarding one section of their online TEFL...  [Read more]

  Our Taiwan TEFL training course is held in the exciting capital city of Taipei. Home to 2.7 million Taiwanese, Taipei is the political, economic, instructional, and cultural center of Taiwan. It is also one of the major hubs in East Asia, and a great base from which to explore the wider region. In Taipei you'll notice a combination of the old and new where modern buildings exist next to those of the colonial era and old Chinese temples. The most famous landmark in Taipei is the Taipei 101 tower, which was the world's tallest building when it was completed in 2004. The National Palace Museum is where you will want to head if you are interested in Taiwanese culture and history. The museum is home to a large collection of ancient Chinese ceramics, carvings, paintings and calligraphy. ...  [Read more]

  The state of Wisconsin is located in the Midwest, to the south of the famous Great Lakes. Due to this location, Wisconsin’s geography is very diverse and it is home to a booming farming industry. That is why the state is also known as ‘America’s Dairyland’. Whether you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city in a wooden cabin by the lake, to relax in a luxurious spa resort, or are looking for country fairs and festivals, Wisconsin will make your dreams come true. The northwest region of Wisconsin is situated beside the deep waters of Lake Superior. This area is made for adventurers as it used to be the home of the lumberjack. Today, it is a prime destination for travelers and outdoor lovers of all kinds. Visitors can enjoy kayaking around the Apostle Islands, hiking...  [Read more]

Deciding to leave your old life behind and head overseas to teach English is a big move to make and one that can come with a few issues. One that many people encounter is how to stay in regular contact with friends and family. However old and independent you might be, the people you leave behind are likely to have some concerns and it certainly helps them and yourself if you are able to keep everyone informed of your experiences. While it is easy to make excuses and pass the buck, it ultimately is down to you to maintain relationships while you are teaching English abroad. The people you leave behind will have little understanding of the time difference, or your new work schedule, which means it is up to you to find the best time to make a phone or webcam call and to make the necessary...  [Read more]

  In this episode, we cover the pronunciation of the word inveigle. This word is used as a verb and refers to the action of persuading someone to do something through flattery or deception. The word comes from aveugler in Old French meaning ?to blind?. 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. The videos going over a non-effective way to teach and a effective way to teach was helpful for me. I was able to see what you shouldn't do such as use complex...  [Read more]

  If you’re looking to complete a TEFL training course in Spain, TEFL International offers four different centers throughout this lavish, yet laid back country. Take a course in Barcelona, Seville, Malaga or Granada and you won’t be disappointed. The Kingdom of Spain has acquired such a great reputation and is a leading destination for TEFL courses. And that’s not hard to see why when you think of all the great Spanish music and dancing, food and wine, remarkable history, and exciting festivals. Those interested in earning an internationally recognized TEFL certificate such as the one offered by TEFL International, will be pleased to know that upon completion of the course, you will have gained one of the most highly regarded TEFL certificates in Spain, Europe or the rest of the...  [Read more]

  Georgia is an exciting destination is the USA with a rich history, beautiful natural wonders and vibrant cities. The last of the original Thirteen Colonies, Georgia is among the oldest US states and offers countless historic landmarks and attractions. Georgia is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and boasts the famous Blue Ridge Mountains in the north. There are also over 60 major parks throughout the state, making Georgia an excellent place for outdoor activities. Our training center is located in Georgia’s capital of Atlanta and welcomes you to join our in-class TEFL/TESOL training program There is no better way to explore Georgia than by getting outside and diving into outdoor activities. Georgia features excellent natural attractions, state parks, scenic byways, and...  [Read more]

The good news is there is no real age restrictions on who can take a TEFL course and then go on to teach English abroad. At ITTT we do require you to be at least 18 years old to enroll on our courses but there are certainly no upper age limits. Over the years we have successfully trained people of all ages, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers as English language teachers. As long as you are a native or near-native English speaker who is keen to learn new skills and is open to new ideas, then your age should be no barrier to your success. Although a large number of new TEFL graduates are in their 20s, it doesn't mean they are always the most sought after by employers. Yes, there are many employers around the world who are only interested in recruiting younger teachers...  [Read more]

In the run up to your departure overseas to teach English there will inevitably be plenty of things to organise. You will probably have one or two leaving parties to attend and you might have to clear out your old apartment and office space. Even if you only have to pack a bag in preparation for your trip, you will still need to consider exactly what you will and won’t need to take with you. Although mobile phones now have improved cameras built in, taking a separate, high-quality camera is certainly recommended. Mobile phones are only as good as the battery that runs them and these can be short lived when using the camera extensively. Bear in mind that many of the places you might visit could be lacking in charging points and you do not want your phone to die on you while you visit the...  [Read more]

Many thousands of people every year, of all nationalities and from all walks of life, make the decision to take a TEFL certification course for a wide variety of different reasons. For some it offers the chance to earn a bit of spending money while traveling in far-flung corners of the world, while for others it is a great way to make fundamental changes to their career and life plans. If you are one of the many thousands of others who have thought about studying TEFL, but are yet to act, here are some of the main reasons why we think you should take the leap. Most people have periods in their life when the job they are doing becomes dull, mundane, and all too repetitive. So what better way to shake things up and make a change to the same old same old than by taking a training course that...  [Read more]

With its lifestyle and climate, there are many people seeking TEFL Jobs in Spain. It has the added and very great advantage of having a large number of TEFL jobs available for the qualified English teacher. You will find that the majority of positions available are for teaching young learners, but there are also numerous opportunities to teach adults and business English as well. The larger Spanish cities have literally thousands of private language academies. On the down side though, work regulations are quite stringent, so the non-EU passport holder will have more difficulty finding an English teaching position. However, if you are patient, diligent and have the financial resources to see you through, even a citizen from a non-EU country can find work. It is best to actually be in the...  [Read more]

  Akira took the 120-hr online TEFL course with tutor support and videos from ITTT. In this TEFL review video he talks about what he learned on the course, including better ways to plan his lessons and activities he can use in his classes. ITTT's TEFL/TESOL courses are not only well suited for students who have never taught before but are also a great way to refresh old skills for working teachers. 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. Unit XI was...  [Read more]

Located on the tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore is a truly cosmopolitan city and has been home to people from all over the globe for hundreds of years. The world’s only island city-state, Singapore was founded in 1819 as a trading post by Sir Stamford Raffles and remains an important center of international trade and business today. Since independence the city has blossomed into highly-developed, Asian metropolis where skyscrapers rise above tree-lined streets, Chinese shop houses and British colonial buildings. The legacy of the British Empire and Singapore’s multicultural history can be seen in the numerous districts where different ethnic groups settled in the city. The Colonial District was the seat of British power in Singapore and is centered on the Padang, a large playing...  [Read more]

  The state of California is famous all over the world due to its sandy beaches, iconic cities and year-round great weather. California received its nickname ‘The Golden State’ from the famous Gold Rush in the mid 19th century. During this period, the state saw dramatic changes in its society with waves of immigration from the east and all over the world. Today, California is the most populous state in the USA and also one of the largest, making up almost three quarters of the West Coast. In the south of California, you will find one of the state’s most popular cities: San Diego. Often referred to as ‘America’s Finest City’, San Diego is blessed with great weather and a laid back attitude. Shop at Horton Plaza, watch a baseball game at Petco Park, or visit the Gaslamp...  [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]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and TEYL (Teaching English to Young Learners) certifications are both valuable qualifications for educators looking to teach English to non-native speakers. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that cater to specific teaching environments and student demographics. TEFL certification is a general qualification that equips teachers with the skills and knowledge needed to teach English to students of all ages and levels in a variety of settings, such as language schools, universities, and businesses. TEFL courses typically cover a wide range of topics, including lesson planning, classroom management, language assessment, and teaching methodologies. This certification is ideal for educators who want to teach English...  [Read more]

For each of five countries in each region we will consider factors such as a general statement of opportunity in the region, monthly salary in US$ equivalent and finally a typical current job posting from the region. It is important to view salaries in the context of a typical citizen’s average income. What may appear to be a low salary may in fact put you in a high income bracket (and vice-versa!) All figures were correct at the time of writing but are subject to change. There is a vast range of opportunity from high income first world countries like Japan and South Korea, to less-developed countries throughout the region. Salaries and conditions therefore vary due to those constraints. 11 schools available across Thailand (kindergarten, primary and high school level) You will teach...  [Read more]

  The good news is there is no real age restrictions on who can take a TEFL course and then go on to teach English abroad. At ITTT we do require you to be at least 18 years old to enroll on our courses but there are certainly no upper age limits. Over the years we have successfully trained people of all ages, many of whom have gone on to have successful careers as English language teachers. As long as you are a native or near-native English speaker who is keen to learn new skills and is open to new ideas, then your age should be no barrier to your success. Although a large number of new TEFL graduates are in their 20s, it doesn't mean they are always the most sought after by employers. Yes, there are many employers around the world who are only interested in recruiting younger...  [Read more]

  Although Nevada is only the 35th most populous state, it is a major tourist destination for visitors from around the world. Divided into five different regions (Elko, Ely, Reno, Tonopah and Las Vegas), Nevada offers a wide range of leisure activities for both locals and visitors alike. Whether it is trekking, hiking and exploring the outdoors, or relaxing, shopping and gaming, Nevada has something to offer everyone. The northern region of Elko is often referred to as ‘Cowboy Country’, as it still maintains the feel of the old Wild West today. One of the most popular destinations is the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Here, visitors can explore the outdoors via hiking, bicycling, rock climbing and horseback riding. Nevada is also famous for its many UFO sightings....  [Read more]

When it comes to teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) in countries with rich cultural heritage, there are several top destinations that stand out for their unique blend of history, tradition, and vibrant cultural experiences. These countries not only offer TEFL teachers the opportunity to immerse themselves in a rich cultural tapestry but also provide a stimulating environment for professional growth and personal enrichment. One of the most popular destinations for TEFL teachers who enjoy rich cultural heritage is **Italy**. Known for its stunning architecture, world-renowned cuisine, and deep-rooted history, Italy offers TEFL teachers the chance to teach in a country that is brimming with cultural treasures. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the Renaissance art of Florence and...  [Read more]

Teaching English in Egypt used to be much more popular than it is today. Knowledge of the English language has now become more prevalent and more Egyptian nationals are teaching English themselves. This, of course, reduces your opportunities, however they do still exist, and are in fact some of the higher paying English teaching positions available in northern Africa. In Alexandria, the Sinai Desert and Cairo, finding a good job shouldn’t be too hard. If you have experience in business or with IT, you will find yourself an even more desired applicant. It’s best to get yourself a tourist visa and actually come to Egypt to find a job. Not many jobs are advertised on the internet for Egypt, and you will have an easier time finding work if you make contacts in person in Egypt who can help...  [Read more]

  Before looking at the methods or approaches themselves, there are some terms that we need to define. These are the approach, the method or the technique. Basically, these are hierarchical. The approach is an overriding set of principles that a method can actually make use of, whereas the technique are the things that we actually do in the classroom to approach that method. So, these three words are going to appear during the presentation. Again, for each of either the approaches all the methodologies we're going to ask four questions. So be it an approach or a method for each of those things: Where did it come from? What's its background? What does it involve when we're talking about actually in the classroom, in other words techniques? What is positive about it? What appears to...  [Read more]

While teaching English abroad you are unlikely to face any type of discrimination from fellow teachers as most are like-minded people who are easy-going and accepting of the world in all its diversity. However, it can be a different story when it comes to employers. In some parts of the world, including some of the most popular teaching destinations, traditional, conservative views and opinions are still commonplace and this can lead to some uncomfortable situations. Many people still have the mistaken belief that all you need to teach English is to be a native English speaker and those that aren’t will never be as good at it. However, this view on teaching couldn’t be more wrong. To be an effective TEFL teacher you need to have a solid understanding of the workings of the language...  [Read more]

France is the most popular tourist destination in the world by visitor numbers, and it is equally popular with those looking to teach English abroad. With so much to offer, from history and culture to fashion and cuisine, France is the dream destination for thousands of ESL teachers every year. If you want to join this number, take a look at the following guide to teaching English in France. As with most countries in Western Europe, employers in France expect their prospective employees to possess a TEFL certificate. If you arrive without one, you are likely to have a tough time in the job market as most of your competitors will be TEFL certified. If you apply for a position offered by the government-run teaching assistant recruitment program, it is possible to make all the necessary...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TYLEC (Teaching Young Learners of English Certificate) are both certifications that allow educators to teach English to non-native speakers, but they have some key differences. Firstly, TEFL certification is a more general qualification that enables teachers to instruct students of all ages and proficiency levels. It covers teaching methodologies, lesson planning, classroom management, and language assessment techniques. On the other hand, TYLEC certification specifically focuses on teaching English to young learners, typically aged 6 to 16 years old. It delves into age-appropriate teaching strategies, language development stages, and creating engaging lessons for children. In terms of course content, TEFL programs usually encompass a...  [Read more]

Asia is the hottest destination for teaching English abroad right now and Taiwan is one of the most popular locations in the region. The government of Taiwan recently announced an ambitious plan to make the country bilingual Chinese – English by 2030, something that offers a big increase in opportunities for English language teachers in the coming years. Along with the buoyant job market, other great attractions for teachers are the high salaries and extra benefits, a low cost of living, the warm and tropical climate, and a well earned reputation as one of the friendliest nations in the world. You have to be over 20 years old and be a native English speaker with a passport from the USA, the UK, Ireland, South Africa, Canada, New Zealand, or Australia. A university degree in any subject...  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and TEYL (Teaching English to Young Learners) courses are both specialized training programs for educators who want to teach English to non-native speakers, but they cater to different teaching contexts and student demographics. Understanding the differences between these two types of courses is essential for educators to choose the right program that aligns with their career goals and teaching preferences. TEFL courses are designed for teachers who want to teach English to non-native speakers of all ages in a variety of settings, such as language schools, private tutoring, or corporate training. These courses cover a wide range of teaching methodologies, language skills, and classroom management techniques that are relevant to adult learners....  [Read more]

TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) and TEYL (Teach English to Young Learners) certificates are both valuable credentials for teaching English to non-native speakers, but they have distinct differences that cater to specific teaching contexts. Firstly, TEFL certificates are designed for teaching English to students of all ages and proficiency levels in a foreign language context. TEFL courses cover a broad range of teaching methodologies, language skills, classroom management techniques, and assessment strategies. They prepare teachers to work with adult learners in various settings such as language schools, universities, and corporate environments. On the other hand, TEYL certificates focus specifically on teaching English to young learners, typically aged 3 to 12 years old. These...  [Read more]

Bangkok is a vibrant, hectic and awe inspiring Asian metropolis with gleaming sky scrapers rising above the incense infused air of the local Buddhist temple. Traditional floating markets are a short trip from 21st Century shopping malls selling the latest fashions and technology. The city is also home to some of the top restaurants in the region if not the world and its street food is delicious, cheap and available almost everywhere. The city is the gravitational centre of the country and attracts Thais from all over the kingdom with the promise of work as well as good schools and universities. As such, it is a great place to experience the unique cultures of the different parts of the country. ITTT’s Bangkok TEFL training course takes place in a working English language school that...  [Read more]