The Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA) is one of the most widely recognized and respected qualifications for teaching English as a foreign language. Offered by Cambridge Assessment English, the course equips aspiring teachers with the skills and confidence needed to teach English to non-native speakers. The journey from selecting a centre to graduation is both challenging and rewarding. Here’s a comprehensive overview of each stage of the process.
Researching and selecting a CELTA centre
The first step in your CELTA journey is choosing the right training centre. CELTA courses are offered by authorized centres worldwide, both in-person and online. When selecting a centre, consider factors such as location, course format (full-time, part-time, or online), cost, and the centre’s reputation. Many candidates prefer centres with experienced trainers and a strong track record of success.
It’s also important to check the course schedule and ensure it aligns with your availability. Full-time courses typically last four to five weeks and are intensive, while part-time courses may span several months, allowing for a more balanced pace. Online courses offer flexibility but require strong self-discipline.
There are more than 2,800 centers across 130 countries worldwide, all of which are inspected by Cambridge English and adhere to their high standards. You can find all the centers at the link below. Select your country to check their availability.
Find a teaching qualification centre
Applying for the course
Once you’ve chosen a centre, the next step is the application process. This usually involves submitting an application form, a pre-interview task, and attending an interview (in-person or online). The pre-interview task assesses your language awareness, grammar knowledge, and ability to analyze teaching scenarios. Don’t worry if you’re not an expert—this task is designed to gauge your potential rather than your current knowledge.
During the interview, trainers will evaluate your motivation, communication skills, and suitability for the course. They may also discuss your understanding of the demands of teaching English and the CELTA course itself. This stage is crucial for ensuring that you’re prepared for the intensity of the program.
CELTA pre-course preparation
After being accepted, you’ll receive pre-course materials to help you prepare for the program. These materials often include grammar exercises, teaching terminology, and reading assignments. Completing this work is essential, as it provides a foundation for the course and helps you hit the ground running on day one.
This is also a good time to familiarize yourself with the CELTA syllabus, which covers five key areas:
- Learners and teachers, and the teaching context
- Language analysis and awareness
- Language skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing
- Planning and resources for different teaching contexts
- Developing teaching skills and professionalism
We’ve created free lessons covering each of the five key areas on our website. Explore them all in the CELTA Lessons section.
The intensive course experience
The CELTA course itself is a rigorous and immersive experience. Whether you’re taking it full-time, part-time, or online, the course is divided into two main components: input sessions and teaching practice.
Input sessions: These are workshops led by your trainers, covering teaching methodologies, lesson planning, classroom management, and language analysis. You’ll learn how to create engaging lessons, adapt materials, and address learners’ needs. These sessions are interactive, often involving group discussions, role-plays, and practical activities.
Teaching practice: This is the heart of the course. You’ll teach real English language learners (of varying proficiency levels) and receive feedback from your trainers and peers. Teaching practice is both challenging and rewarding, as it allows you to apply what you’ve learned in a real classroom setting. Over the course, you’ll teach multiple lessons, gradually building your confidence and skills.
Some helpful blog posts:
- A day in the life of a CELTA trainee
- Understanding the CELTA Curriculum: A Beginner’s Guide
- How CELTA Prepares You for a Teaching Career
- What makes CELTA students challenged the most?
CELTA written assignments
In addition to teaching practice, you’ll complete four written assignments. These assignments are designed to deepen your understanding of teaching and learning. They typically include:
- Focus on the learner: Analyzing the needs of a specific learner or group.
- Language-related tasks: Demonstrating your ability to analyze language and teach it effectively.
- Skills-related tasks: Planning and evaluating a lesson focused on reading, writing, listening, or speaking.
- Lessons from the classroom: Reflecting on your teaching practice and identifying areas for improvement.
These assignments are assessed by your trainers and must meet the required standards to pass the course.
Some helpful blog posts:
- How to use impersonal writing and reflective writing in CELTA assignments
- CELTA written assignments tips
Feedback and reflection
Throughout the course, you’ll receive ongoing feedback from your trainers and peers. This feedback is constructive and aimed at helping you improve. Self-reflection is also a key component of the CELTA experience. After each teaching practice, you’ll reflect on your performance, identify strengths, and consider areas for growth. This reflective practice is invaluable for developing as a teacher.
Some helpful blog posts:
- How to Make the Most of CELTA Resources
- CELTA common mistakes to avoid
- Expert advice for passing your CELTA course
CELTA assessment and grading
CELTA is assessed continuously, meaning there is no final exam. Instead, your performance is evaluated based on your teaching practice and written assignments. There are three possible grades:
Pass
Pass B
Pass A
While the majority of candidates receive a Pass, achieving a higher grade requires exceptional performance in both teaching and assignments.
To understand the criteria for grades, please download the official CELTA syllabus.
CELTA graduation and certification
Upon successful completion of the course, you’ll receive your certificate from Cambridge Assessment English. This globally recognized qualification opens doors to teaching opportunities around the world. Many graduates go on to teach English in countries such as Spain, Japan, or the UAE, while others use their CELTA as a stepping stone to further qualifications, such as the DELTA (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages).
Some helpful blog posts:
- Career progression options for CELTA graduates
- How CELTA helps career changers
- Why CELTA certification is worth the effort
Post-CELTA career opportunities
With your CELTA certificate in hand, you’re now ready to embark on a career in English language teaching. Many language schools and institutions prioritize CELTA-qualified teachers due to the program’s rigorous standards. Some graduates also choose to gain experience in their home countries before teaching abroad, while others dive straight into international opportunities.
Conclusion
The CELTA course is a transformative experience that equips you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to teach English effectively. From selecting a centre to graduation, each stage of the journey is designed to challenge and support you as you develop into a professional English language teacher. While the course is demanding, the rewards—both personal and professional—are immense. Whether you’re looking to start a new career, travel the world, or make a difference in learners’ lives, this course is a powerful first step on your teaching journey.
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