Modern Languages FAQs

How do I complete the online application form for Teacher Training courses?

The easiest and quickest way to apply for a Teacher Training course is to use the online application form. Select your course, and use the calendar picker to choose your start date. Click APPLY to enter the application form.

Online application forms must be completed in one go: you cannot save the form and return to it later. You make take up to 30 minutes to answer each question: if you take any longer moving between questions you may lose your work.

If 30 minutes is not long enough to answer some questions, you may wish to try the following:

• Work on your answers in a Word document; copy and paste them into the application form when you are ready to apply.
• Download the application form pdf, complete it by hand, and return by fax or email.

Some Teacher Training application forms contain a language awareness task. This does not have to be completed at the same time as application form - it can be downloaded and saved to your computer to be completed afterwards. Language awareness tasks are also included in the confirmation email you receive when you submit the application form.

Is it possible to have a career in ELT?

There is now quite a well-established career structure within the field in the UK. As a newly qualified teacher, you might consider looking for a job which will provide you with support for two to three years then consider taking the next-level qualification Delta (Diploma in English Language Teaching to Adults). After this, you might think about moving into teacher support in the role of senior teacher. After gaining some more experience, many teachers go on to do an MA in ELT before moving into teacher training or ELT management.

I can't speak the language. How can I possibly live there?

The CELTA course aims to teach you how to teach all your lessons in English, regardless of the first language of the students, so don't rule out teaching in a country just because you don't know the language. All IH schools provide language support for new teachers to enable you to get a foothold in your new living situation

I've been offered a job. Should I take it?

There are some basic questions to ask. Is there a contract? Will you be paid hourly and, if so, are you guaranteed a minimum number of hours' work? What support is available to you? Ideally, there should be a Director of Studies who will help you plan and prepare courses. Will you be observed? One of the most important features of development work is the opportunity to discuss your teaching with someone who is more experienced. Many schools offer a developmental observation programme. One feature of all IH schools is that there is a strong focus on teacher development. We work hard to ensure that teachers feel that they are not only contributing to the work of the organisation, but gaining from it.

How long do contracts usually run?

As with the other questions the answer to this one is 'it depends'. In most western European countries, contracts are for an academic year (from September to June) whilst the academic year in South America and Japan begins in January. Some organisations (e.g. VSO) require a 2-year commitment. Although this may seem like a long time, remember that it often takes a few months to settle into a new country and the second year is usually when you begin to see the benefits of learning a new language and cultural rules. It is also possible to find short contracts (e.g. three to six months) and International House updates its vacancy list monthly to take account of these.