Looking for a bit of help. Been thinking of doing TEFL course in Cork. What I'm wondering is are they worth it? Has anyone done one and if so are they difficult?
I did one in Dublin about 10 years ago. It was a 10 week course with 2 lessons of 2 hours twice a week. It wasn't difficult but just fairly intensive - I didn't really work at it but still got a C in the exam at the end - some people studied only a little and got Bs or As.
I've been researching this recently myself. The conclusion I've come to is that it's a waste of money doing a TEFL course unless it's recognised throughout the world.
The best recognised courses are the CELTA and the Trinity TESOL.
A lot of countries won't allow you to work unless you have a Primary Degree.
You need to make sure that your course gives you real teaching practice and is at least 4 wks long.
If you do a course in Ireland make sure it is ACELS accredited.
The courses are very intensive and quite hard work from what I hear.
Good luck. I really fancied doing this myself but got cold feet about taking a career break in the present climate. You do know you can study abroad? I fancied this idea as you could test the water as you learned so to speak. http://europetefl.com/ Have a look at this website. I've no affiliations with them, I just found them helpful answering my numerous questions.
Yeah, I should have mentioned all that myself really.
The course I did was internationally recognised - they were based in Merrion Sq - I forget the name of the place.
I was advised at the time though that to teach EFL in Ireland you need a primary degree but not so for teaching abroad? maybe this has changed however. I really wouldn't call it hard work though - it's tiring/intense but not difficult IME. But I have an English related degree and an interest so that probably helped.
The need for a primary degree varies from country to country.Most of the better paying places which are in Asia do require it eg China, Korea & Japan.
Depends I suppose on if you see it as a career or as a way to support yourself while travelling.
I'm sure your English related degree did help !