The Centre of English Studies ACELS TEFL Certificate

ACELS CELT (Certificate in English Language Teaching) - Dublin only

What is the Centre of English Studies CELT?
The CES ACELS (The Advisory Council for English Language Schools) accredited CELT (Certificate in English Language Teaching) was established in 2007 as part of the EFL industry's continuing commitment to maintaining the highest possible standards within EFL in Ireland.  This certificate ensures you are provided  with an insight into the professional life of a functioning school and brings you into direct contact with overseas learners.   This Certificate is now the benchmark qualification for employment in the quality EFL sector. Please see http://www.acels.ie/ for further information.

What are the course details?
As an approved Centre for the CELT, CES has a reputation for an outstanding level of teacher training. Our ACELS recognized course provide pre-service training for those who wish to enter the EFL profession at an initial level.  Our courses are delivered by a team of highly qualified and experienced trainers, who are available to offer guidance, support and feedback to all participants.  It is an intensive 4-week 120+ hour course, which takes place from Monday to Friday.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How big are the classes?
It is CES policy that the maximum number of participants is 16.  Within the confines of the group, you will spend much of your time working in small groups but you will be expected to complete some tasks individually.

What does the timetable consist of and what is the course content?
You will be given a course timetable as well as a course handbook during the first input session. However, the course will cover the following areas.

An introduction to E.F.L
information on EFL in Ireland and abroad
Language Awareness
introduction to grammar, syntax and lexis
Lesson Planning
planning lessons
Teaching Techniques
approaches to and methods of teaching
Creative Teaching
using video, song, drama and role-play to teach
Authentic Materials
using and adapting authentic materials
Language Skills
integration of the four skills (reading, writing, speaking & listening.)
Methodology
modern approaches and methodology to language learning
Classroom Management
group dynamics, teacher/student interaction
Error Analysis
understanding how learners learn and the mistakes they make
Materials Evaluation
choosing and adapting course books, using authentic materials
Teaching Practice Sessions
teaching a class of mixed-nationality students at a given level
Classroom Observation
observation of classes given by experienced teachers

There will also be designated self-study periods set aside during the course when you can work alone on your portfolio, project or forthcoming teaching practice sessions.  The self-study periods are always tutor assisted.  Under course regulations 100% attendance is strongly recommended and 90% is compulsory. CES will not award a certificate unless these conditions are met.

How much Teaching Practice is involved and is it with foreign students?
On a 120+ hour teacher-training course, you will receive a minimum of 360 minutes teaching practice.  All teaching practice takes place within the school with classes of a maximum 14 students per class. Each session will last 15, 30, 45 minutes, one hour or longer.  The students in the class are all learning English as a Foreign Language and you will be informed of their level prior to the class. Levels taught range from Elementary to Upper Intermediate. Your trainer will be present to monitor the class and give both oral and written feedback after the session.  All teaching practice sessions must be attended.

Is teaching observation included?
Throughout the course, you will be given the opportunity to observe a minimum of six hours of experienced teachers teaching at a variety of levels. Every attempt is made to ensure that you observe the level of class that you will teaching in your following teaching practice. You will be required to do all observations.

What is a portfolio and why do I need it?
A portfolio is your personal record of what you have learnt on the course and clearly illustrates your development as a teacher.  It contains samples of your lesson plans and materials prepared throughout the course, your homework,  5 assignments, and is a valuable document to show to prospective employers. Certain elements, which are to be submitted are compulsory, and failure to include these will result in failure of the Portfolio.

What will I be able to do at the end of the course?
By the end of the CES CELT course, the successful candidate should be able to do the following: -

* plan clearly staged lessons, which lead to the achievement of teaching objectives.
 
* effectively implement these lesson plans by teaching classes appropriate to the level and language needs of language learners.

* analyse language for the purposes of teaching and understand basic EFL terminology.

* evaluate and adapt materials, authentic or otherwise, available for teaching various aspects of EFL.

* understand how learners of different nationalities learn and effectively facilitate this process.

* understand classroom management theory and be able to put it into practice.

* be familiar with current practices in teaching English as a foreign language.

How will I be assessed?
Although you have to work in small groups, your evaluation and assessment  is carried out on an individual basis by our team of trainers and is based on the following: -

* Teaching practice which takes place throughout the course (60%)
* A portfolio which will be handed in at the end of the course (40%)

Successful candidates will get a certificate in CELT awarded by ACELS (The Advisory Council Of English Language schools) on the basis of their performance according to the course requirements.  Please see www.acels.ie for further information.

Approved with Distinction - Potentially excellent
Approved                          - Potentially very good

The course is a demanding one with a heavy workload although we do have a very high success rate. However, we cannot guarantee that all candidates will pass. Should you fail the teaching practice sessions or  the portfolio element you will not pass the certificate.

Do you give career advice?
As there is such a large network of officially recognized schools throughout the country, you have a clear advantage when looking for a job in the quality sector in Ireland.  There are often job opportunities at CES itself and we will give preference to our successful trainees. In general, recognised schools give preference to CELT Certificate holders accredited by ACELS. Our trainers will endeavour to assist you where and when possible.

How do I apply?
Click here to download the application form and return it to:
 
Centre of English Studies at 31 Dame Street, Dublin 2
or e-mail: teachertraining@ces-schools.com.

On receipt of your completed application form, you will be invited for interview by the Course Director. Following acceptance, you will be asked to pay a deposit of €350 to secure your place. This deposit is non-refundable unless you cancel your place 5 working days prior to the start date. The balance of the fees is due before the start date.