What is the CELTA? Teach English around the world with this globally recognised qualification.
The CELTA is a globally recognised English teaching qualification. The course is designed to develop practical techniques, giving teachers the confidence they need to teach English in a variety of contexts in as little as four weeks.
The CELTA focuses on the principles of effective English language teaching using the communicative approach. This is reflected in the tasks we ask our trainees to do with their students, and also in the way that we deliver our training during input sessions. Throughout the course, candidates can expect to participate in group work and are encouraged to be creative when designing activities for students.
To receive a CELTA certificate you will need to complete the course and meet the assessment criteria for all written and practical assignments. You will be assessed on 6 hours of teaching practice and 4 written assignments. There are three passing grades: Pass A, Pass B and Pass.
Your Guide to the CELTA:
Click the boxes below to find out more.
Who is the CELTA for?
Anyone who would like to start a career in teaching English as a second language and work around the world.
This course is also suitable for people who have some teaching experience but would like additional training and the CELTA qualification. You will need to have a proficient level of English to begin the course.
What will I learn?
During the course, you will learn the principles of effective teaching and how to apply these to the classroom. You will develop the ability to plan lessons efficiently, analyse language and reflect on your teaching practice.
The CELTA also equips you with tools to further your professional development and helps you feel confident in a teaching role.
What will I gain?
Whether you want to teach for a summer, a year, or a lifetime, the skills learned during a CELTA course with IH London will boost your CV and career – there is a world of teaching and travelling possibilities ahead of you.
What's included?
The course includes teaching practice at IH London or online via Zoom, observation of qualified teachers, 120 hours of contact time with tutors including detailed post lesson feedback, supervised lesson planning and input seminars.
You will have access to a wealth of resources including our ELT library (the largest in London), a free Grammar for Teachers online course, and access to the IHL Teacher Portal.
You will also be able to view our online Teacher Training video series featuring 15 lessons with accompanying plans.
At the end of your course, we help prepare you for a career in teaching with a jobs advice talk and an invitation to join the ‘Trained by IHLondon’ alumni Facebook group.
What does it cover?
The course topics include an introduction to the roles of teachers, learners and their contexts, language analysis and awareness, teaching the four skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking), planning and preparing classroom resources, developing teaching skills and professionalism.
The CELTA also requires a significant self-study commitment of approximately 120 hours.
What's the application process?
CELTA application timeline
To apply for the CELTA, you need to complete both a written application and an interview. In our CELTA application timeline we’ve set out what’s involved in the process and our tips for success.
View the timelineWhy train with IH London?
IH London is the home of the CELTA, the course was created over 60 years ago by our founder, John Haycraft. We have since gone on to train more candidates than any other centre. In addition to our expert trainers and modern facilities, we offer a unique package of support including a pre-enrollment grammar course, free online continued development courses and a free foreign language course.
Find out more