Premier TEFL

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It all began more than 25 years ago when one of the Premier TEFL founders, Deirdre, landed back in the UK after four years abroad teaching in Japan, China, Australia and finally the mountains of Greece.

Her life had changed so profoundly that she wanted to pass her knowledge and ideas to others. And so, she did. With passion and determination, she founded a TEFL company that was to change the concept of teaching abroad for hundreds of thousands of people. She set about creating the first online TEFL course and worked with thousands of volunteers from all over the world.

She still has that same passion and knowledge today, but perhaps more importantly, empathy with fellow hopeful travelers as she has been exactly where you are now… standing at the beginning of something truly life-changing!

Premier TEFL courses are English Government regulated. Internationally recognized TEFL certification. Lower priced than most. Simple.

Their team of academic experts we’ll prepare you to teach English with practical and accredited courses. Then you can enjoy lifetime, personal support in your exciting new TEFL career. Not only that, through their network of global employment contacts, they can connect you to your first job either online or abroad. 

Regulated TEFL Qualifications

The Level 5 Ofqual regulated TEFL courses guarantee you the highest standard of teacher training, which means you’ll get the best paid jobs. They also offer a no-quibble refund if you decide that TEFL isn’t for you.

Teach English Online

You can make money teaching English. Here is how.

Recommended Courses

To get started as an effective online English teacher you’ll need a foundation of knowledge in the most common ESL teaching techniques and methodology. The 120 hour Advanced TEFL Course is perfect for this. Boost your skills by taking the 30 hour class in Teaching English Online to gain insight into the core differences to teaching virtually versus a real classroom.

The ABC of teaching English online

Who do you want to teach English to?

Children, teens or adults? Day-to-day conversation or businessEnglish? You’ll have plenty of options.

Qualify to teach English with Premier TEFL globally accredited certification

Teaching English online isn’t difficult, but it does require training. Two courses are recommended for that. Level 5 qualification to learn an extensive skill set and get better fee-earning jobs. A quick and inexpensive alternative is the Fast-track 120 hour certificate which is ideal to get you your first teaching job.

Join the world’s top English teaching platforms

You can apply for work to the Premier TEFL network of trusted and vetted online employers, who all offer competitive salaries up to $30 an hour. Just think, you could earn your course fee back in 6 hours.

Why take the Teaching Young Learners course

Known as the lingua franca, learning the English language is a skill that millions of parents worldwide appreciate and want their children to learn from a young age.

Children who access English language learning gain an enormous advantage in their future academic and professional lives and are better equipped to take their place in a global society.

For many children who live in non-native English speaking countries, their only source of exposure to English is their TEFL teacher, whether that’s in the classroom, as a home-tutor or online.

Teaching Young Learner (TYL) positions are among the most rewarding, enjoyable jobs in the TEFL industry thanks to the enthusiasm of the students, who can easily mimic new sounds and speech patterns and are less self-conscious speakers.

With a huge number of teaching positions available for certified TYL teachers worldwide, this specialist skill enhances your résumé and allows you to shape the lives of future generations.

Which online teaching platform is for you?

Which online teaching platforms are the best match for you? Take a short profile quiz to see which employers will be a great fit. Ready, let’s go!

Why should I choose Premier TEFL, there are so many TEFL training options?

Good question! 34% of Premier TEFL customers say because of their 4.6-star reviews, 25% say the price, 25% say they loved Premier TEFL courses best, and 13% say they thought it had the best customer service. On top of that, the 14-day money back guarantee, lifetime study access option and government regulated training are great reasons too! When you take all this into account, it’s easy to see why over 91% of Premier TEFL customers recommend them.

How do I get TEFL certified?

To get TEFL qualified you first need to select the best TEFL course to suit you and enroll. Successfully passing each module of your course will lead you to a well-earned TEFL certification. Payment for your selected course is handled securely and safely through Stripe or PayPal.

What level of English do I need to take a TEFL course?

You need a fluent command of the English language to study any Premier TEFL course. If you are a non-native English speaker, and can competently understand English, then all courses are suitable. TEFL teachers are expected to have a B2 standard or higher.

If you’re not sure of your level, check with the free online Cambridge assessment test.

What education level is required to become a TEFL teacher?

To get hired in the TEFL industry you’ll be required to be aged 18 with a high school diploma (Leaving Certificate / A-levels / Matric or equivalent) at minimum.

Some employers have a preference to hire degree qualified candidates. In certain countries, a degree (in any discipline) is required as part of the visa application. Put simply, budding English teachers who hold a degree will have more TEFL opportunities.

What do I need to be eligible for a TEFL course?

To complete a TEFL course all you need is a fluent standard of English (B2 or above), a stable internet connection and some self-study motivation!

Are Premier TEFL courses accredited?

All Premier TEFL courses are fully accredited by ACDL (Accreditation Council for Distance Learning) and written by English teaching professionals. Premier TEFL is also an approved training center with TQUK (Training Qualifications UK), an Ofqual-regulated Awarding Organization.

How long do I have to study the course?

You have a six month study period to complete your TEFL course, from the date of enrollment.

As a guideline, the 120-hour Advanced TEFL Course takes 6 – 8 weeks to complete typically, while the 168-hour Level 5 TEFL Course takes 10 – 12 weeks. You’ll have more than enough study time over six months to complete any Premier TEFL course.

If you require more time you can purchase course extensions for a small charge with options ranging from seven days to lifetime access.

Do I need teaching experience to do TEFL?

No, there are plenty of TEFL jobs for first-time English teachers. However, it depends on the teaching position offered whether you will need previous teaching experience or not. Just like in any industry there are jobs for beginners, right up to those with years of classroom experience.

Teaching experience can range from personal tutoring, volunteer homework clubs to teacher placements as part of an education degree. Premier TEFL specialise in teaching opportunities for first-time teachers and experienced teachers. They are the perfect helping hand to launch your TEFL career.

How long does a TEFL course take?

The time taken to complete a TEFL course depends on how much study time you can dedicate each week and which duration of course or training package you choose. You’ll have 180 days (six months) to complete your TEFL course, which is typically twice as long as needed to finish the most comprehensive training courses.

Fast-track Courses
For example, on the fast-track 120-hour Advanced TEFL Course some students take four weeks to complete all materials while other students need eight to 10 weeks. Six weeks is the average time it takes for students to complete the 120-hour Advanced TEFL course.

Ofqual-regulated Courses
The average time taken to complete the 168-hour Level 5 TEFL Course is 10 to 15 weeks.

Is teaching English abroad worth it?

You might wonder, is teaching English abroad for me? Well, since you are here reading this in-depth series of TEFL FAQs, it is definitely a good fit for you!

The first step is deciding which course you want to complete, after that a new world of opportunities opens up to you. Embrace it!

You’ll gain as much or as little as you want to when you teach English abroad. It can be utterly life-changing or simply a new experience. It’s all down to you. The more you put into this opportunity the more you’ll get back out!

What qualifications do I need to take a TEFL course?

Having at least a high school diploma (A-Levels / Leaving Certificate / Matric or equivalent) is the minimum education level expected of TEFL teachers.

Some employers prefer TEFL teachers to have a degree level education, while certain countries require a bachelor’s degree or higher for visa and work permit regulations. There is no way around this unfortunately. But not to worry, there are dozens of opportunities to teach English for non-degree holders.

Can I take a TEFL course as a non-native English speaker?

Yes, you can take a TEFL course as a non-native English speaker. As long as your written and spoken English is at a B2 level or higher a TEFL course will be doable for you.

I did a TEFL course a long time ago, do I need to do another?

The short answer is no. However, if you gained your TEFL qualification a few years ago you may want to take a new TEFL course to refresh your training.

For example, taking a specialist TEFL course, such as Teaching Business English, will add to any previous training you have completed.

The TEFL job market is very competitive, so having specialist TEFL qualifications gives you a stronger TEFL resumé and shows professional development since the date of taking your original certification.

Does my TEFL certification expire?

No, your TEFL certification does not expire. It’s a lifetime qualification. However, if you gained your TEFL qualification a few years ago you may want to take a new TEFL course to refresh your training. Consider taking a specialist teaching course to boost your resumé and demonstrate you’re committed to teaching English.

I have a teaching qualification, is a TEFL course necessary?

If your teaching qualification (such as a degree) is in English teaching, then TEFL is not necessary. If your teaching qualification is not specific to teaching English or teaching through language submersion, then taking a TEFL course is the perfect add-on to your resumé.

Is TEFL right for me?

If you are outgoing, have patience, get a kick out of sharing knowledge, love to travel, immerse yourself in new cultures and gain new life skills, then TEFL is 100% right for you. Earn a lifetime qualification in an industry that has never stopped growing.

Successful TEFL teachers should also have a clean bill of health and no criminal record.

Once you are part of the TEFL world you can join a network of travelers and teachers who spend months on end in exciting new locations.

I want courses in other fields and topics than English.

If you're wanting to adapt and venture into new fields and topics other than English, you should invest time in sites like ZOTA Professional Training. By doing this, you will have access to hundreds of top-rated professional development and certification courses, to help expand your knowledge on a variety of topics.

Can I teach English abroad without speaking another language?

Yes, you can teach English abroad without another language. It is never expected that you can speak the language of the country where you teach. And, you should only use English in the classroom. Nevertheless, knowing how to say “please” and “thank-you” is always helpful.

Can I teach English as a non-native English speaker?

Yes, you can teach English abroad as a fluent English speaker! TEFL teachers are expected to have a high fluency in spoken English and strong written English. Many schools ask for a B2 level and higher when advertising TEFL jobs. Taking an IELTS or a TOEIC exam will be useful for non-native speakers when applying for TEFL jobs.

Can I do a TEFL course part-time?

Yes, you can complete a TEFL course part-time. The beauty of online TEFL courses are that you can fit your TEFL course around your daily routine. Premier TEFL gives each student 180 days to complete their TEFL course.

With 24/7 access you can study at any time of day or night to suit your lifestyle. The course is completely self-paced so no matter what other commitments you have, organizing your study schedule will be stress-free.

How much does a TEFL teacher earn?

TEFL teacher salaries depend on the country you take up a teaching position with. The highest paid salaries are typically in the Middle East where salaries reach a whopping US$3,000-$4,000 per month (often tax free). Of course, TEFL teachers need to be prepared for the cultural shift that comes with living in destinations such as the UAE.

Asia comes a close second with salaries in Japan around US$2,500 per month, South Korea pays a handsome US$1,500 and includes rent-free housing.

In Europe TEFL teachers can expect to earn US$1,250 – $2,000. Latin America and Africa will pay less, but with lower costs of living you will enjoy a comfortable life. Cost of living specialists Numbeo can help you determine if your salary and benefits offer is enough to live on compared to a package where you can save each month.

Will my food, accommodation and travel expenses be included with my TEFL job?

Your food, accommodation and travel expenses are included in some TEFL jobs and internships. However, this is not always the case with every TEFL position.

Travel expenses are hard to come by, but having your food and accommodation included is quite common. Take into consideration your monthly allowance or salary in comparison to the inclusions provided. Typically there’s a balance between the two.

Plus, cost of living specialists Numbeo can help you determine if your salary and benefits offer is enough to live on compared to a package where you can save each month.

If your job contract offers a flight reimbursement, expect to receive this at the end of your contract. It’s a great bonus whether you choose to celebrate with it, or take it as savings for your next TEFL job.

Will I teach alone?

Teaching by yourself in the TEFL world is not very common. Most schools which employ TEFL teachers will have more than one teacher in their staff body. Usually you’ll meet a mix of foreign teachers and local English teachers.

If you’d prefer to know you’ll have foreign English teaching colleagues, steer your job applications to language schools more than public schools.

Premier TEFL internships are designed with group start dates for TEFL interns, so you have an instant community of new friends.

Being part of the TEFL world connects you with a global community; we encourage you to make as many local friends as foreign ones. After all, getting to know the locals is how to find the best places to eat, explore and have a truly authentic experience!

Can I teach English with my friend / boyfriend / girlfriend / partner?

Yes, absolutely! You can teach English abroad with your friend or partner. Lots of schools are happy to hire friends or couples, or place you living together but teaching in different schools.

Our favorite destinations for pairs or groups of friends are China, Taiwan and Cambodia.

Can I teach English abroad with children?

It’s so exciting that you plan to travel with your children. Most budding TEFL teachers traveling with family members will take the route of completing a TEFL course and applying for jobs directly.

Fully-inclusive internships usually come with shared accommodation, and as a parent, this is one of many areas where you’ll want to have more autonomy as your needs will differ from someone traveling solo.

TEFL jobs in most cases are higher paid than internships which will be a priority for you while budgeting childcare. Test the waters as an ESL teacher by teaching online from your home country first to gather some experience, boost your resume/CV and make sure you love teaching English before the big move.

Is there a difference between TEFL, TESOL and TESL?

Technically speaking, yes. TEFL teachers teach English in non-native English speaking countries. TESL teachers teach English in native English speaking countries, and TESOL is the general term to cover all three!

TEFL – ‘Teaching English as a Foreign Language’ certificate, is the most commonly accepted certificate worldwide. This certificate allows you to teach English to non-native speakers across the globe.

TESOL – ‘Teaching English as a Second Language’ aka TESL. Similar to TESOL students, as a TESL teacher, you would likely be teaching English in your home country to students who have moved or live in an English speaking country. In other words, they are continuously surrounded by the language and will be using it everyday outside of the classroom, unlike TEFL students who are likely learning in their home country.

CELTA – Known as the ‘Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults’ is a very prestigious certification. In order to receive a CELTA, you must complete a 120-hour course along with six hours of observed teaching practice with real ESL students. The majority of CELTA programs are held over four weeks and are full time. However, you may be able to find some courses that are part-time and are spread out over three months. The CELTA program must follow a strict regulation created by Cambridge University.

Will TEFL be good for my career, even if I don’t plan to teach forever?

Absolutely, yes! Think of all the skills you’ll pick up after even a month of teaching: time management, multi-tasking, thinking on your feet, problem solving, improvising, cross-communication, self-discipline; the list goes on!

Education is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences you can have, and as humans we should never stop learning. Use your TEFL experience to fly the flag of a ´life-long learner’; what employer wouldn’t be impressed with that?

Do I get a certificate?

Yes! Premier TEFL courses follow the same certification process except for the 168-hour Level 5 Ofqual regulated TEFL Course. Since this is a (UK) government regulated certificate, issued directly by TQUK, there are some extra steps that must take place.

168-hour Level 5 Ofqual regulated TEFL Course

On completion of your 168-hour course, you will be issued with a PDF coursework completion certificate within your dashboard.

Next, your 11 assessments will be reviewed by an internal quality assessor (IQA). When undertaking a level 5 course, it is important to understand that you may be asked to re-attempt some questions to demonstrate to the assessor that you have fully understood the learning objective.

Where necessary, the IQA will contact you with details of the assessment questions they wish you to re-attempt. After your satisfactory re-submission of this work, your certificate may be requested from TQUK. All TQUK issued certificates are sent to Premier TEFL’s Irish Headquarters where they are then sent by registered post to the learner. The processing time for these steps is around 8 – 12 weeks.

All Other Premier TEFL Courses

Once you have completed your course, and achieved 80% or above in your end of module knowledge tests, you will receive a digital PDF certificate instantly which you can email to prospective employers. In addition to the digital copy, you can order a hard copy certificate (printed on embossed card) from within your learning portal.

Paid TEFL Internships

Your teaching adventure made simple with all-inclusive and fully organized TEFL internships! Premier TEFL takes all the hassle out of securing your teaching placement, meaning you have more time to focus on the fun stuff. Get ready to begin a supported teaching semester abroad, jam-packed with unbeatable inclusions. From rent-free housing to bucket-list trips to The Great Wall!

Using their expertise, Premier TEFL have organized the best internship placements with international recruiters and schools, wrapped up with all the essential supports a new TEFL teacher needs when moving abroad. Join the Premier TEFL crew for your paid TEFL internship, launch your international teaching career and have the adventure of a lifetime.