Is there an Official Worldwide TEFL or TESOL Website?
It is difficult to find any official figures regarding the number of TEFL and TESOL training centers worldwide, but it would be reasonable to estimate that they number in the thousands. The vast majority of countries worldwide regulate their education through the government, which applies to both public and private enterprises. Consequently, there are different regulations and requirements for each country concerning eligibility to teach ESL.
Table of Contents
You must have some form of ESL qualification.
There must be some form of accreditation.
You must have a good working knowledge of the English language.
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That being said, some common features related to the requirements for teaching ESL are fairly standard throughout the world. These include:
You must have some form of ESL qualification.
The most requested qualification from employers worldwide is a TEFL or TESOL certificate. This certificate should typically involve around 120 hours of training and can be obtained online or in person at a training center. Variations on this minimum requirement may include additional attributes, such as a minimum amount of teaching experience, a degree in any subject, police record checks, and professional references. Each country has its own expectations, making it difficult to make generalized statements about employment requirements. Therefore, it's important to remain realistic about the jobs you can apply for.
There must be some form of accreditation.
Most TEFL and TESOL course providers claim to have some form of accreditation. Generally, professional educational organizations are accredited by a government body or a university, while some private educational agencies also exist. Accreditation serves as a quality control mechanism and is crucial in selecting your training organization. When choosing a course, look for references to the accreditation body where you can independently verify the courses' accreditation. An accredited course typically undergoes a series of checks covering all aspects of course content and tutor suitability, with continuous moderation to maintain these standards over time. Always opt for a course with reputable accreditation for the recognition of your certification.
You must have a good working knowledge of the English language.
This requirement can vary depending on the country where you are seeking employment. Some countries specify that their teachers must be from particular countries. Others are open to both native and non-native English speakers. If a specific English language level is mentioned as a requirement, you may find references to the Common European Framework of Reference for Language (CEFR), which specifies a required level of C1 or C2 for applicants seeking a position.
In summary, there is no worldwide body overseeing all TEFL and TESOL training. To ensure the best results, choose a course professionally accredited by a government agency or university. Ensure you only apply for positions for which you meet the required qualification level.
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