TEFL & TEACHER TRAINING FAQ

1. Who is the TEFL course for?

The TEFL Course is open to anyone who meets our entry requirements. Ideally you will be an open-minded individual, eager to learn, not just about teaching, but also about different cultures and customs.

2. What kind of people take the course?

TEFL attracts a multitude of people from all different backgrounds and all different ages. From those who have just finished university and want to travel, to those who have become stale in their 9-5 existence, to people who want a retirement pastime, TEFL offers opportunities for all.

3. What topics does the TEFL course cover?

The TEFL Course covers everything required to become a successful teacher of English. Subjects covered include: Classroom Management, Error Analysis and Correction, History of TEFL, Pronunciation, Teaching Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking, Presenting Grammar and Vocabulary in the Classroom, Music and Song, Using Authentic Material and Motivation.

4. What should I read before I attend the course?

Most people come to the course as a 'blank slate' but it is useful if you have "dipped into" the suggested books and have a copy with or near you during the course, which you can refer to before or after sessions.

5. Who are the course trainers?

The course is run by a young team of trainers, all of whom have the Diploma in TEFL - a prerequisite for running this type of course.

6. What are the course dates & fees?

Please click on this link dates&prices.

7. What is the application procedure?

Step 1 - completing the application form
Step 2 - in order to confirm the application the deposit needs to be paid
Step 3 - when the deposit has been received we will contact you in order to arrange the interview
Step 4 - waiting for confirmation of acceptance or non-acceptance
Step 5 - if accepted, a written confirmation is sent within 48 hours
Step 6 - the outstanding balance payment (must be paid on month prior /6 weeks for peak time courses/ to the course starting)

8. Why chose the Trinity?

Trinity along with Cambridge are the market leaders in providing TEFL courses. When choosing a course which is validated by an outside body you know that your course will meet strict guidelines and your qualification is genuinely recognized worldwide.

9. I am not a university graduate - is this a problem?

No, but you need the qualification which would be required by any higher education institution.

10. Can you provide accommodation for candidates during the course?

We provide different types of accommodation, which can be checked out on Accommodation.

11. What happens during interview?

The interview usually lasts twenty-twenty five minutes. You will be asked questions about your ambitions in TEFL, asked to comment on some classroom situations and we will discuss your selection task. But DON'T worry, there are no correct responses, we are looking for common-sense answers.

12. How much work does the course involve?

This is an intensive course and it lives up to its name. You will be expected to be in the centre for around 9 hours a day, either participating in input sessions or planning lessons, or completing your assignments. In addition to 6 hours of Teaching Practice students are expected to complete 3 assignments and pass two exams on Methodology and Language Awareness.

13. What do the seminars involve?

The input sessions are not like college lectures. Trainees are expected to participate, discuss ideas and come up with their own ideas.

14. Will the seminars 'teach English grammar' to the trainees?

Yes and No, Trainees will be shown how to analyse language and some sessions will focus on some of the troublesome aspects of English, but a course of this type cannot be expected to "teach" the students a vast subject like English Grammar. Therefore trainees are expected to work on their English language knowledge before, during and after the course.

15. How is the teaching practice (TP) organized?

Each trainee teaches 6 hours over seven teaching slots. The typical breakdown is 2 * 30 minutes and 5* 1 hour of teaching. Teaching practice takes place in the evenings of weeks 1,2,3,4 with groups of Czechs, who come to us especially for TP courses.

16. What is the TP feedback?

After the lessons the observer will give you feedback on your lesson. This will involve looking at the positive points of the lesson and also pointing out areas where work needs to be done.

17. Is there one particular teaching method that the course advocates?

Yes. The course advocates the Communicative Approach, which is recognized all over the world, but it also encourages trainees to be flexible and try out methods which would suit their own style or that of their class.

18. Can you describe a typical day?

A typical day in week One would be 9:30-13:00 input sessions, 14:00-15:00 Unknown Natural Language lesson, 15:00-16:30 input session, 17:00-18:00 observing experienced teachers. In weeks two, three and four: 9:30 -13:00 input sessions, 13:00-17:00 lesson preparation time, 17:00-20:00 teaching.

19. Assuming I pass, what will I actually receive?

You will receive a Certificate from Trinity after about 1 month.

20. Where is the qualification recognized?

The Trinity qualification is recognized worldwide and along with CELTA is considered as the leading provider of TEFL courses.

21. Does Prague Schools operate a job placement service for successful candidates?

Yes. Both locally and centrally through Prague Schools TEFL. There is a series of presentations in week three when language schools give presentation in order to attract students and offer jobs.

22. Any question unanswered?

Email us at infotefl.cz

23. Does your school offer accommodation for couples taking the course together?

Yes. Simply let us know if you wish to share.

24. Which is the best time to find a job?

The market is always flexible and graduates rarely find difficulty in finding jobs at any time of year.

25. Is there a dress code?

Not on the course, although many schools expect a decent standard of dress and some demand business dress.

26. Do you offer any scholarships?

Unfortunately we do not offer any form of scholarship.

27. What is the difference between TESOL, TEFL, ESL and CELTA?

TESOL= Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.
TEFL = Teaching English as a Foreign Language.
ESL = English as a Second Language.
CELTA = Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults.
There is no practical difference between having a TEFL or TESOL qualification in the same way that CELTA and Trinity CertTESOL carry the same weight in the job market.

28. Which is the qualification obtained after completion of the course?

Successful candidates will be awarded the Trinity Cert.TESOL. This certificate is recognised internationally.

29. What is the suggested amount of money that I should have with me for my first month in the Czech republic?

Please check out this link - Prague

30. Roughly how much can a qualified teacher in Prague expect to earn?

English teachers in Eastern Europe can live comfortably but will probably not be able to save. For instance in Prague, teachers earn around 180-200 Kc/60 minute hour while working at an average language school.
Those who do freelance work can earn from 300-500Kc/ 60 minute hour. (Keep in mind the
exchange rate is approx. 30 Kc/$1 and 47 Kc/£1)

31. Do I need to know the language of the country I want to go to?

No. The idea of the TEFL profession is that students are exposed to an immersion course in English only during the lesson. The course teaches you how to achieve understanding without translation.

32. Do I need to speak North American English, British English, Australian English or another one?

You teach the English you speak.

33. Can I take your course if English is not my native language?

Yes, but you must demonstrate a good level of proficiency in English during an extended interview.

34. How do I apply?

You can apply on-line at how to enrol, or from the same page download application forms in MS Word format and send it via post or fax.

35. When do schools abroad hire?

Most schools' "academic year" is from September to June. Schools are looking for new teachers from around May to replace teachers that are leaving, and/or from the middle of September to the end of October.
December and January are also good months to find work, since some teachers leave in December and new courses start.

36. Do schools use contracts and, if so, how long are they for?

They do. Usually the shortest contract is for 6 months but there are also shorter ones.

37. Can I take your course by correspondence?

Unfortunately we do not have that option.

38. With so many English teacher training courses advertised how do I know which to apply for?

Look for a course with validation from an outside body such as Cambridge or Trinity.

39. Is there an age limit?

The minimum age limit is 18 years old and there is no maximum age limit.

40. Do I need teaching experience?

You do not need any teaching experience

41. What about work permits and Visas?

Please see Prague:Visa

42. Can I get a job without a TEFL certificate?

It is possible to find a job without having a certificate. However, once you are certified you will have a better pay rate and many more job opportunities. It used to be the case that simply being a native speakers was enaugh, but these days one is forced to obtain a certificate or teachers are simply replaced by those who are certified. With English being the universal language for travel and international business, the demand for native-English teachers is constantly increasing and a certificate is no longer a rare acquisition!

43. Will I be a competent teacher by the end of the course?

Yes. It is our aim to turn out teachers capable of dealing with the demands and stresses of a full-time teaching timetable.

44. Does the course meet standard international guidelines?

Yes, it does. It is externally moderated by Trinity.

45. What standard of accommodation can I expect?

Standard accommodation, included in our all inclusive or half board package, is a two-bedroom flat shared by two trainees. It is usually not far away from the school. The flats are all fully furnished and well equipped. For further details please go to accommodation.

46. Will you help in adapting to the new environment?

Yes. Included in the course fees are different features helping you to adapt to the new environment. The first feature is an airport pick-up and transfer to your accommodation for the half board option. For further details please check dates&prices