Madrid Weekend Getaways

Home / CELTA Trinity Courses / Madrid Due to its status as Spain’s capital city and its economic center, Madrid has had a strong demand for foreign English language teachers for many years. The city is also a favourite as it is open and friendly to visitors and it has a warm climate that is pleasant for much of the year. Whether you visit in the summer or winter, you will find plenty of things to keep you busy when you are not in the classroom. Art lovers will be overwhelmed by the number of museums and galleries on offer, while night owls will never tire of the city’s endless variety of entertainment options. If you prefer to relax among the peace and quiet of natural surroundings then the parks and gardens of Madrid will suit you just fine. When it comes to getting...  [Read more]

Home / CELTA Trinity Courses / Madrid Due to its status as Spain’s capital city and its economic center, Madrid has had a strong demand for foreign English language teachers for many years. The city is also a favourite as it is open and friendly to visitors and it has a warm climate that is pleasant for much of the year. Whether you visit in the summer or winter, you will find plenty of things to keep you busy when you are not in the classroom. Art lovers will be overwhelmed by the number of museums and galleries on offer, while night owls will never tire of the city’s endless variety of entertainment options. If you prefer to relax among the peace and quiet of natural surroundings then the parks and gardens of Madrid will suit you just fine. When it comes to getting...  [Read more]

Getting a TEFL certification while working part-time is definitely possible and can be a great way to enhance your qualifications and skills in teaching English as a foreign language. There are various options available for individuals who are working part-time and still want to pursue a TEFL certification. One popular option is to enroll in an online TEFL certification course. Online courses offer flexibility in terms of timing and can be completed at your own pace, making them ideal for individuals with part-time commitments. These courses typically include modules on teaching methodologies, classroom management, lesson planning, and language assessment. Another option is to attend a part-time or weekend in-person TEFL course. While these courses may require a bit more time commitment...  [Read more]

  Spain is a popular destination for teaching English abroad as it always has a wide choice of jobs on offer, particularly in cities such as Barcelona and Madrid. For most non-EU citizens it is common practice to enter the country on a 90-day tourist visa.  [Read more]

Within the world of English language teaching there are many acronyms used to describe what type of teaching is involved in any particular scenario. EFL is one of the more common ones you will come across and it stands for English as a Foreign Language. You will find EFL is most commonly used when describing the teaching or learning of English in a non-English speaking country, such as Spain, Japan, or Mexico. It is very common for either of these acronyms to be used when talking about any situation where a student is learning English, however, there is a technical difference between the two. As previously mentioned, EFL is when the student is learning English in a non-English speaking environment, for example, a Japanese student learning English in Tokyo. In this scenario there is often...  [Read more]

People come from all over the world to teach English as a foreign language in Spain, and there are a variety of different visa options depending on your nationality. The following is a brief overview of the current options; however, we recommend that you always conduct your own research to ensure you have the most up-to-date information. As Spain is a member of the European Union, teachers from other EU member states do not need a visa to live and work legally in Spain. However, you will still need to apply for a residency permit and a tax number on arrival in the country. The application process should be straightforward and you can usually expect your employer to help you through it. For non-EU citizens, the most common option is a 90-day tourist visa that is issued on arrival at a...  [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]

  Although 800 million Currywurst are eaten in Germany each year and the country is home to 1,000 differnet types of sausage, over 1,200 breweries and the world famous Oktoberfest, it is important to remember that there is much more to Germany than beer and sausages. Signing up for your in-class TEFL course with ITTT in Germany means you will earning an internationally recognized teaching certificate in the home of some of the world’s greatest musicians, poets and thinkers such as Bach, Goethe and Nietzsche. With three cities in the top ten of the Mercer Quality of Living Survey it is easy to why quality of life in Germany is considered to be generally high. Most cities provide excellent public infrastructure, quality living spaces and a number of leisure activities. Accommodation...  [Read more]

Before we look at this question closely, we should first make an important distinction. The number of hours you teach in the classroom (often called contact hours) are not the same as the number of hours you will be expected to be in school, often confusingly called contract hours. Next, it is important to appreciate that different teaching jobs have different typical hours. There are basically three types of jobs available. Most schools abroad work normal office hours so you will probably need to be in school, Monday to Friday, from 7:30 a.m. (in many Asian countries) until 4:00 p.m. This equates to around 40 hours per week. You will not have to teach for all of those hours but a typical teaching load would be around 20-25 hours per week. When you are not teaching you will be expected to...  [Read more]

  Florida is one of the most popular destinations in the United States. Often referred to as “The Sunshine State”, due to its year-round great weather, Florida features the longest coastline in mainland USA and is the only state that borders the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Florida is home to exceptional natural wonders, including some of the finest beaches and best parks in the country, as well as vibrant cities and first-class entertainment facilities. Before the first Europeans arrived in Florida, Native American groups, such as the Apalachee and Tocobaga, populated the land. Florida was the first part of the USA that was visited by Europeans and after the Spanish arrived in 1513, he named the peninsula La Florida, meaning “land of flowers”. Florida is a nature...  [Read more]

When considering the best countries for TEFL teachers who enjoy nature and wildlife, several destinations stand out for their natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. One popular choice is Costa Rica, known for its lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and commitment to conservation. Teaching English in Costa Rica offers opportunities to explore national parks, spot colorful birds and monkeys, and immerse oneself in the country's eco-friendly culture. Another top destination is Thailand, with its stunning beaches, tropical jungles, and vibrant marine life. TEFL teachers in Thailand can enjoy weekends snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking to waterfalls, or visiting elephant sanctuaries. The country's warm climate and welcoming locals make it a popular choice for nature lovers looking to...  [Read more]

As it is one of the most visited countries in the world, Spain has a huge tourism industry that has a continually high demand for English language teachers. There are hundreds of privately run language schools located across the country that hire year-round, as well as government sponsored programs that place teachers into the public school system. The majority of positions can be found in large cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, although opportunities can be found in virtually every city, town, and beach resort in the country. The amount you can earn will vary considerably depending on your previous classroom experience, level of qualifications, the location you choose, and the type of employer. Salaries start at around ?700 per month, rising to ?1,800 for higher end...  [Read more]

Spain is one of the most popular TEFL destinations in Europe and it attracts thousands of teachers from all over the world every year. However, before you jump on the plane to sunny Spain, you might want to consider what Latin America has to offer. When armed with all the facts, many teachers decide that a country in this region is actually better suited to them. One of the many benefits of teaching English abroad is it provides a perfect opportunity to learn another language during your stay. Many people choose Spain as their teaching destination as they assume it is the best environment for learning the Spanish language. However, the reality is that the Spanish spoken in Spain uses an accent and slang that is very different to anywhere else, to the point that Spanish speakers from other...  [Read more]

If you're a TEFL teacher who loves to travel, there are several countries around the world that can offer you a rewarding experience both in terms of teaching and exploring new destinations. Here are some of the best countries for TEFL teachers who have a passion for travel: 1. **Thailand**: Known for its warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine, Thailand is a popular destination for TEFL teachers. With a high demand for English teachers, you can easily find job opportunities in schools, language centers, or even as a private tutor. During your free time, you can explore bustling cities like Bangkok, relax on tropical beaches, or visit ancient temples. 2. **Spain**: If you dream of living in Europe while teaching English, Spain is an excellent choice. With a rich...  [Read more]

The Cultural Ambassadors Program (also known as the North American Language and Culture Assistants Program) is run by the Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport. Every year as many as 2,500 North Americans are placed through the scheme into elementary or secondary schools across the country to work as assistant language teachers. As Spain can be a difficult place for non-Europeans to secure an official work visa, this program provides a great opportunity for Americans and Canadians to legally live and work in one of the world's most popular teaching destinations. The program is open to American and Canadian citizens aged between 21 and 60, although the upper age limit for placement in the Madrid region is 35. If accepted, participants are assigned as assistant English...  [Read more]

Spain has long been one of the top destinations in Europe for teaching English abroad. Thousands of teachers from all over the world head to Spain every year drawn by the promise of a relaxed lifestyle, a beautiful coastline dotted with sandy beaches, and the opportunity to learn Spanish while living in a modern, international city such as Madrid or Barcelona. If Spain is your number one choice, take a look at the following tips that could help you on your way. If you are serious about living and working as an ESL teacher in Spain, the first thing you will need to do is complete a TEFL certification course. Without a TEFL certificate you will find it difficult to secure a well paid teaching job anywhere in the country. Thanks to a government recruitment program it is possible for a...  [Read more]

Our in-class training course in Corinth, Greece, is one of our most popular locations. The... On weekends and after classes, we organize group excursions to explore Corinth and its...  [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]

On weekends and after classes, we organize group excursions to explore Corinth and its surrounding areas. Corinth is a beautiful city in the south of greece. Our trainees have a great time exploring Greek culture during their one-month stay at our center. After successful completion of the in-class course, every trainee will be awarded a hard-copy TEFL/TESOL certificate. The qualification allows you to not only find a suitable teaching position around greece, but virtually anywhere in the world.  [Read more]

As Spain is a member of the EU, language schools generally prefer to hire teachers from fellow EU countries as they do not need to go through the hassle of applying for a work visa. However, this doesn't stop thousands of non-EU citizens from coming to Spain each year to work as English language teachers. Many of these simply enter on a tourist visa and technically work illegally. While this is common practice and rarely has any negative consequences, there is an alternative for those who want to live and work in Spain. By enrolling on a study course (typically a Spanish language course), teachers can apply for a student visa that also allows them to legally work a certain number of hours per week. To start the process you should visit your nearest Spanish Consulate at least three...  [Read more]

  The state of Ohio is located in the Great Lakes region, and is known as the ‘Buckeye State’ due to an abundance of the local buckeye tree. Locals and visitors from around the globe come to Ohio to dive into the wonders of this fascinating state. Many stand in awe at the amazing earthworks built by early humans known as the Great Serpent Mound. Ohio’s rich natural resources also mean there is an abundance of wildlife to enjoy throughout the state. With Lake Erie in the north and the mighty Ohio River in the south, the State of Ohio has been a prosperous location for thousands of years. With four distinct seasons, there is always something to do in Ohio. In 74 State Parks, over 130 State Nature Preserves, and the famous Cuyahoga Valley National Park, visitors can enjoy all kinds...  [Read more]

  The two main benefits of our in-class TEFL courses are the in-person instruction you receive from professional teacher trainers and the extensive teaching practice you get in a genuine English language classroom. As well as the major benefits, many of our in-class training centers also provide a number of additional extras to enhance your stay. On arrival, free airport pickups are available in many cases. Having transport to your accommodation arranged in advance can be a real bonus after a long and tiring journey, particularly if you are not an experienced overseas traveller. During your in-class TEFL course you will need to put in some serious work in order to get the most out of it. However, it will not be all work and no play. Many of our centers start the course with a...  [Read more]

  The combined TEFL course is a mix of online and in-class study that is a perfect fit for some trainees. The first part of the course is completed online from wherever you are in the world. For the second part you need to attend one of our training centers where you will get invaluable teaching practice in a genuine English language classroom. During your stay you will also receive further instruction on various teaching topics from our professional teacher trainers. If this sounds like a good option for you, you can choose your in-class training center from a number of great locations around the world. The second part of the combined TEFL course consists of ten days of study, with the middle weekend free, at our training centers in Bangkok, Phuket, and Rome. Study at our centers...  [Read more]

When it comes to choosing a TEFL certification program, flexibility is a key factor to consider, especially for those with busy schedules or specific needs. Several institutions offer flexible options to accommodate different preferences and circumstances. One of the most flexible TEFL certification providers is ITTT (International TEFL and TESOL Training). ITTT offers a range of online courses that allow students to study at their own pace and in their own time. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who are working or studying full-time and need a program that fits around their existing commitments. Another flexible option is BridgeTEFL, which offers both online and in-person courses. The online courses are self-paced, meaning students can start at any time and study at a...  [Read more]

  In this video we look at a TESOL teaching idea for the past continuous tense. For this activity students are put into groups and are handed pictures of people doing different activities. The pictures are placed upside down in a pile and the students take it in turns to turn them over. When they have turned over a card they must make a past continuous sentence based on the picture they have. For example: If they turn over a picture of a woman swimming they would say: She was swimming yesterday. For more advanced students this activity can be used to compare past continuous and past simple. For example: While I was doing the washing up, I broke three plates. Becoming a TESOL teacher enables you to travel the world experiencing new cultures while earning a living and helping...  [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]

The huge popularity of ESL in China means that Zhuhai has become a very popular city in which to gain TEFL International’s teaching certificate. The city is incredibly exciting and affords you a view into Chinese culture, its diversity and history. Taking your course here truly represents a unique opportunity to experience the real side of China. Macao borders Zhuhai’s southern border and is roughly 70 miles away from Guangzhou and only 36 miles away from Hong Kong. The city is situated in an outstanding location with great scenery, a clean environment and a rather nice coastline. These are just some of the great reasons why our trainees give it such high praise. Zhuhai is a seaside resort city where flowers blossom all year round. Its attractive environment and natural landscapes have...  [Read more]

If you are a TEFL teacher with a passion for education, there are several countries around the world that can provide you with a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Each country has its own unique opportunities and challenges, so it's important to consider your own preferences and goals when deciding where to teach English as a foreign language. One of the best countries for TEFL teachers is South Korea. South Korea has a high demand for English teachers, and the salaries are competitive. In addition, the cost of living is relatively low, which means that you can save a significant portion of your salary. South Korea also has a rich culture and history, which can provide you with a unique and immersive experience. Another popular destination for TEFL teachers is Japan. Japan is known for...  [Read more]

When it comes to TEFL teachers who enjoy cultural experiences, there are several countries that stand out as ideal destinations. These countries not only offer opportunities to teach English but also provide a rich cultural experience that can be incredibly rewarding. One of the top countries for TEFL teachers seeking cultural immersion is Thailand. Known for its warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes, Thailand offers teachers the chance to experience traditional Thai culture up close. From exploring ancient temples to participating in local festivals, there is no shortage of cultural experiences to be had in this Southeast Asian gem. Another popular destination for TEFL teachers is Spain. With its vibrant arts scene, rich history, and lively festivals, Spain is a...  [Read more]

  In this TEFL review, Luis from Madrid in Spain explains how he has just finished his 120-hour online TEFL course with ITTT. Luis chose the course with tutor support and videos and feels this was the best decision he could have made. Now that he has finished the course he plans to work as an English teacher in China and is confident that his TEFL certificate will give him a good chance at obtaining a good teaching position once there. 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...  [Read more]