







By the end of this module, you will:
- Increase your awareness of the use of English around the world today.
- Recognise the varying factors of motivation and needs of English learners.
- Grasp the historic development of ELT theories, methods and practices and how they have influenced current ELT approaches.
- Use the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) to familiarise yourself with the different learner levels and competencies.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Hold a strong understanding of how to become an effective ESL teacher.
- Gain knowledge to carry out the best classroom management practices.
- Put your learning to practice with a range of teaching techniques.
- Master how to adapt your teaching style to cater for different teaching environments.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Train in how to create different lesson plans.
- Gain a full understanding of the many aspects involved in lesson planning (e.g outlining the goal of the lesson and adapting the lesson to the student profile).
- Study alternative lesson plan models, using the knowledge for different class styles.
- Become comfortable with following a curriculum or timetable and work your lessons around these factors
- Familiarise yourself with the likelihood of using prescribed materials and resources, affecting your own lesson plans
By the end of this module, you will:
- Gain a full understanding of the term ‘grammar’.
- Learn how to recognise the grammar level of a student.
- Recognise the pros and cons of teaching grammar.
- Study the historical development of grammar and the use of grammar in English today.
- Gain a strong understanding of the current English grammar system.
- Understand different approaches to presenting grammar.
- Build a foundation of varying approaches in teaching grammar.
- Be able to teach grammar in fluency and accuracy focused styles.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Recognise the significance of teaching vocabulary.
- Acquire an appreciation for teaching students vocabulary and how the vocabulary is taught.
- Gain a strong understanding of the numerous layers of English vocabulary, such as lexical chunks.
- Discover how to present vocabulary and lexical chunks in varying ways.
- Attain numerous methods of practising vocabulary.
- Recognise the need to record and re-use vocabulary.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Be aware of pronunciation difficulties faced by English students.
- Familiarise yourself with the work involved in producing sounds, words and longer utterances.
- Study the numerous phonological sounds.
- Discover numerous activities and styles in teaching pronunciation.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Recognise the difference between receptive and productive skills and how to be an effective reader and listener.
- Understand the primary foundations of teaching reading and listening.
- Be taught how to create an effective reading or listening comprehension exercise.
- Master the importance of further learning outside the classroom e.g reading and listening.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Gain an understanding of the importance of writing and speaking English, using this knowledge in the classroom.
- Develop techniques in teaching the principles of writing and speaking English.
- Take in numerous teaching techniques in writing and speaking classes.
- Add writing and speaking activities to your teaching repertoire.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Understand the motives behind each student in learning English.
- Have the ability to adapt your lessons in teaching very young learners up to teenagers.
- Enhance your knowledge of international English language examinations and how to focus your teaching on helping students with these exams.
- Learn about teaching business English and topic-specific English.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Preparation on planning and applying for your first TEFL job.
- Recognise the importance of boosting your teaching resume with different resources.
- Training on entering the job market and how to develop professionally.
- Identify new ways to improve your teaching style.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Have an understanding of what IELTS is and how it operates.
- Understand what is assessed in the IELTS exam and how does assessment work.
- Learn who takes the IELTS exam and what scores will they need.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Understand what the IELTS Listening test consists of.
- Be aware of the types of questions in the IELTS Listening test.
- Be able to help students prepare for the IELTS Listening test.
- Gain 20 essential tips for teaching IELTS Listening.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Understand what the IELTS Reading test consists of.
- Understand what is different about the IELTS Academic Reading test and the IELTS General Training Reading Test.
- Be aware of types of questions in the IELTS Reading test.
- Be aware of what reading skills are assessed.
- Gain 20 tips for the IELTS Reading test.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Understand what the IELTS Writing test consists of.
- Have an overview of the IELTS Academic and GT Writing tests.
- Be aware of how IELTS Writing is assessed.
- Be able to help students with Academic Writing Task 1.
- Be able to prepare students for GT IELTS Writing Task 1.
- Be aware of IELTS Academic and GT Writing Task 2.
- Have possible IELTS Essay Topics (GT and Academic Task 2).
- Have topics to consider.
- Have a summary of IELTS Writing strategies Task 1 (for students).
- Have a summary of IELTS Writing strategies Task 2 (for students).
By the end of this module, you will:
- Understand what the IELTS Speaking test consists of.
- Be aware of the speaking skills assessed in the IELTS Speaking test.
- Be able to help your students prepare for the IELTS Speaking test.
- Have common IELTS Speaking topics.
- Have examples of Part 2 Candidate tasks.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Have an overview of Vocabulary for IELTS.
- What vocabulary students preparing for IELTS need to know.
- Be able to help your students learn vocabulary.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Understand possible challenges with teaching for IELTS.
- Understand and preparing for mixed-level classes.
- Understand teaching low-level IELTS students, mixed GT and Academic classes, and very high-level IELTS students. Be able to make IELTS interesting.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Have a clearer understanding of TOEIC.
- Know where in the world TOEIC is used and why.
- Know what the TOEIC test consists of and how it is scored.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Have a clearer understanding of the TOEIC Listening test.
- Know what is assessed in the TOEIC Listening test.
- Be able to prepare your learners to be successful in TOEIC Listening.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Have a clearer understanding of the TOEIC Reading test.
- Know what is assessed in the TOEIC Reading test.
- Be able to prepare your learners to be successful in the TOEIC Reading test.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Have a clearer understanding of the TOEIC Speaking test.
- Know what is assessed in the TOEIC Speaking test.
- Be able to prepare your learners to be successful in the TOEIC Speaking test.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Have a clearer understanding of the TOEIC Writing test.
- Know what is assessed in the TOEIC Writing test.
- Be able to prepare your learners to be successful in the TOEIC Writing test.
By the end of this module, you will:
- Have a clearer understanding of the TOEIC Bridge test.
- Be aware of the format of the TOEIC Bridge Test and test questions.
- Be able to prepare your students to be successful in the TOEIC Bridge Test.
Ireland's top rated TEFL provider
ACDL Accreditation Council for Distance Learning
ACDL - Accreditation number: 2854-2540
The TEFL institute of Ireland is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Distance Learning (ACDL), an accreditation body which specialises in distance learning courses. Thus our accreditation by ACDL reflects the high quality distance learning offered by the TEFL institute.
To learn more, visit their website: ACDL
TQUK (Training Qualifications UK)
Approved center number: C000854
The TEFL Institute of Ireland is a fully approved training centre. All of our course materials have been externally and independently approved, endorsing our brand as one of high standards and excellence. TQUK, an Ofqual (The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) regulated awarding body.
To learn more about TQUK and their checks and standards, visit their website: TQUK
Ofqual (The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation)
The Office of Qualifications and Examinations
Regulation (Ofqual) regulates qualifications, examinations and assessments in England and vocational qualifications in Northern Ireland.
To learn more about Ofqual or to verify TQUK status, visit their website: Ofqual
The Open & Distance Learning Quality Council
ODLQC was founded in 1969 as the Council for the Accreditation of Correspondence Colleges, becoming the Open and Distance Learning Quality Council in 1995.
Accreditation follows a rigorous assessment of a provider's administrative and tutorial methods, educational materials and publicity, to ensure that all Standards are met.
Why the TEFL Institute of Ireland?
UNRIVALLED SUPPORT
At The TEFL Institute of Ireland, we place our students at the forefront of everything we do. From training to launching our newly qualified teachers into the TEFL world, were here to assist and guide you every step of the way. As experienced EFL teachers, our support staff are best placed to provide you with the right information and advice as you progress. Just call us your TEFL guardians!
LEADING TEFL TRAINING
As leaders in the TEFL industry, our students benefit from training that our experts have developed over many years. We continually develop and come up with new ideas, programmes and content to provide you with the highest standard of TEFL training. Internationally recognised by employers and accredited by ACDL, the quality of our online TEFL courses will give you everything you need to succeed in TEFL.
EXCELLENT VALUE
We work hard to ensure our accredited online TEFL courses are affordable, accessible and give you the best value for your time and money. From our 120 Hour TEFL Course to hybrid TEFL courses and everything in between we have the TEFL courses to meet every aspiration and budget. Our competitive prices combined with dedicated support gives you a level of TEFL training thats hard to beat.
Karen C.
I have started my TEFL course and already I am finding it very informative. I chose your course in particular because my older brother also did the 120 hour course and loved it. He also praised the support in job searches he received from your team. He found placement in Spain very easily with the help of your team and he commended the support that he received along the way.
Clodagh
I have always been interested in doing a TEFL course and with all this spare time on our hands at the moment I thought it was great time for me to do the course. I chose the TEFL Institute of Ireland because it is trusted by employers worldwide and has a great reputation so I trust that I will benefit the most out of this course.
Eva
I chose TEFL institute of Ireland for my course, after doing plenty of research on other sites I just felt that this was the most reliable for me. Plenty of sites charge a bomb for the same content so the good value was a big factor! Also through looking at your site I saw that it offered so much support, and past pupil stories. I felt it would be the best in regards to offering help if I needed it, and through joining the jobs board I’m confident it will guide me in the right path for a dream job abroad!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a TEFL certification?
The “Teaching English as a Foreign Language” (TEFL) certificate, is the most commonly accepted certificate worldwide. This certificate allows you to teach English to non-native speakers across the globe. The main qualifications to get a TEFL is to have the ability to speak English at a native-level and then complete a course. You can complete a TEFL course either online or in a classroom. The different courses vary based on the number of hours it takes to complete.
What does Level 5 mean?
A Level 5 TEFL course is one that is regulated by Ofqual according to their qualifications framework. Another Level 5 teaching qualification is the CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Once qualified with a Level 5 TEFL qualification, you’ll have access to the most competitive jobs worldwide.
What does regulated mean?
A regulated qualification means that it is officially recognised by the government and sits on the Ofqual Register of Regulated Qualifications.
What is a TEFL certification?
The “Teaching English as a Foreign Language” (TEFL) certificate, is the most commonly accepted certificate worldwide. This certificate allows you to teach English to non-native speakers across the globe. The main qualifications to get a TEFL is to have the ability to speak English at a native-level and then complete a course. You can complete a TEFL course either online or in a classroom. The different courses vary based on the number of hours it takes to complete.
How do I get a TEFL certificate?
The minimum required worldwide is to have at least the 120 Hour TEFL training.
You can choose between fully accredited TEFL courses, Government Regulated Level 5 TEFL courses or combined TEFL courses. View all our courses here.
Online TEFL courses are the most affordable & flexible way to launch your teaching career. This is a perfect way to study theoretical material at your own time & your own pace.
Combined TEFL courses are offering both online & in-class studying. They are a fantastic opportunity to get two TEFL certificates (theoretical & practical). You will learn your theory from online material and then practice it with other teachers during the 10-hour practical session, accompanied and lectured by an experienced TEFL teacher.
Before you choose your TEFL certificate, be aware to check if:
- It is fully accredited & recognised worldwide.
- You will gain at least 120 hours of training.
- You will have a tutor’s assistance.
- It is approved by an official body, such as TQUK & Ofqual in the United Kingdom.
- Make sure to check TEFL provider reviews on Google or
- You will have job support after completion.
What is the difference between TEFL/TESOL/CELTA?
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. The main qualifications to get a TEFL is to have the ability to speak English at a native-level and then complete a course. You can complete a TEFL course either online or in a classroom. The different courses vary based on the number of hours it takes to complete.
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 stands for “Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults” and is a very prestigious certification. In order to receive a CELTA, you must complete a 120-hour course along with six hours of teaching real ESL students. The majority of the programs are held over one-month 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. Due to its intense nature and requirements, the cost also tends to be much higher and can be up to €1700!
What does TEFL stand for?
TEFL stands for “Teaching English as a Foreign Language” – TEFL is the most commonly accepted certificate worldwide.
Which TEFL course to take?
Confused about which TEFL course to enrol in? Don’t worry, as long as you can speak English at a fluent or near-fluent level, then you are eligible to take one of the TEFL Institute of Ireland’s regulated TEFL courses.
Non-native speakers do sometimes find the Ofqual Regulated Level 5 TEFL course quite challenging and we understand it is essential for you to be sure that you are comfortable with your English language abilities before choosing which course to take. As a guide, we recommend that that non-native speakers have a minimum IELTS 6.5 score. If you are unsure you should take our FREE online level test below
Complete The TEFL Institute of Ireland’s FREE English Level Test which has been designed to assist you with making this important decision. If you have any doubts, request a call, and we can discuss which course would suit your needs.
Do I need a Bachelor’s degree to take a TEFL course?
The great news is that you don’t need a degree to take a TEFL course! This is a common worry. Anyone with fluent English can enrol in one of our courses to become a qualified and confident English teacher.
It’s good to know that a degree is a requirement in some countries to get a work permit such as Japan and Korea, but there are many opportunities for those without a degree to be hired.
Even if you see an employer preference for degree holders I still recommend applying as they may not get their full quota and you may have so many additional skills that will appeal to hiring managers.
What’s the difference between Accredited TEFL Courses vs Government Regulated Level 5 TEFL Courses?
Lots of people ask about the difference between our courses. For example, the 120-hour Premier TEFL course is what we would call one of our fast track courses. This is the minimum recognised worldwide.
• You have 10 modules to complete usually taking 4 – 6 weeks
• Each module has a multiple-choice test at the end and you need 80% to pass
• You’ll get your digital certificate on completion and can buy a hard copy from us if you’d like one with an embossed logo immediately
Looking at the 180-hour level 5 Ofqual-regulated TEFL course by comparison:
• Learners spend typically 10 – 12 weeks to complete the 11 modules
• Since it’s a UK government regulated level 5 course the pass mark is 100% and assessments are multiple-choice plus open-ended answers. Don’t worry, you can re-attempt quizzes in order to get 100%. Our academic team will review your answers at the end of your 11 modules and may ask for some questions to be reattempted (absolutely normal). Some questions may require to provide Academic references.
• You’ll get your digital coursework completion certificate from us after module 11, and following successful assessment from our academic team, we’ll be able to claim the licence for your Ofqual (government) certificate from our accreditation body TQUK.
The Ofqual-regulated course range is certainly for those people who want to gain a higher-level more recognised qualification.
Read our blog to learn more about the Level 5 TEFL course here.
What are the benefits of completing a Level 5 TEFL Course?
If you are looking for a professional, globally recognised, Government Regulated TEFL qualification; you should consider the online level 5 TEFL course. The Government Regulated Level 5 TEFL course is the same level as CELTA and Trinity Cert TESOL. Ofqual government regulated (UK) Level 5 TQUK qualification.
The course has 180 hours of TEFL training, more than the minimum required and it’s a higher standard course and therefore, is more competitive.
What’s the age restriction to take TEFL course?
There is none really, we usually say that if you are over 16yrs old, you can start completing a TEFL course. If you are looking for jobs abroad then the minimum age requirement is 18 yrs old or higher.
Who are the ACDL?
The TEFL institute of Ireland is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Distance Learning (ACDL), an accreditation body which specialises in distance learning courses. Thus our accreditation by ACDL reflects the high quality distance learning offered by the TEFL institute.
ACDL – Accreditation number: 2854-2540
To learn more, visit their website: ACDL
Who are the TQUK?
The TEFL Institute of Ireland is a fully approved training centre. All of our course materials have been externally and independently approved, endorsing our brand as one of high standards and excellence. TQUK, an Ofqual (The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) regulated awarding body.
Approved center number: C000854
To learn more about TQUK and their checks and standards, visit their website: TQUK
What's Ofqual stand for?
The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation.
Regulation (Ofqual) regulates qualifications, examinations and assessments in England and vocational qualifications in Northern Ireland.
To learn more about Ofqual or to verify TQUK status, visit their website: Ofqual
Are combined TEFL courses better than the online courses?
We would always recommend attending practical training. If you have the time to attend one of our 10 hour classroom courses, then do! This will give you more confidence and it will put the theory from your online course into practice. The day course is run by our experienced TEFL’s teachers and you will learn the most important skills for executing lessons, from how to warm up the class, to using grammar in a clear and concise manner. This course is perfect if you have already TEFL cert and you would like to put it in practice. Some people prefer to start from the practical course and then do a 120-300hour TEFL course after.
We have 4 locations where we hold our day courses in Ireland:
TEFL Course Dublin, Jurys Inn, Parnell Street
TEFL Course in Galway, The Clayton Hotel
TEFL Course Cork, Radisson Blu Hotel
TEFL Course In Limerick, The Maldron Hotel
Are there any free TEFL courses for unemployed?
We don’t offer free courses but we do help with getting funding from the Dept of Social Protection in Ireland. Our comprehensive courses train you in teaching English as a foreign language at home and abroad. More information on the social welfare grant can be found by following this link: Local Social Welfare Office
This scheme is designed to fund quick access to short term training or related interventions, obtain/renew certification/permits for individual job seekers that have identified work opportunities or where Case Officers have identified an immediate skills gap that represents an obstacle to taking up a job offer or accessing other activation.
We are happy to invoice an external organisation or company on your behalf. Please get in touch with us at [email protected] and we can arrange this for you.
Here at the TEFL Institute of Ireland we firmly believe education should be affordable for everybody. Under this ethos, we offer a 10% subsidy to those who find themselves currently unemployed or in full-time education. Enrol on any of our fully accredited TEFL courses for less and open a new world of opportunities.
To gain the TEFL subsidy you should add the word FUNDING at the checkout. Please be aware that we randomly ask for proof of student or unemployed status. We accept documentation such as a copy of a student card or job seekers allowance. Please send either to us within 14 days via email to [email protected] Or via post to:
The TEFL Institute of Ireland
Old Friary Building
Lower Main Street
Dungarvan
Co. Waterford
Post code: X35 FX45
Am I too old to teach English abroad?
You are never too old to gain new qualifications. Some employers might have age restrictions but others won’t. There are always options to teach English from home, private tutor, online tutor.
Do I need to speak another language to teach English abroad?
No, it is not necessary to have knowledge of other languages. You will be able to find a job and work comfortably without knowing the language spoken in that particular country. The real question is, should you make an effort to learn a foreign language? Basic language is always a plus and we would always recommend learning a few phrases before you move abroad. Learn to say Hi, Thank you, Goodbye, Sorry. If you can order a meal and pay for that meal without automatically handing over the biggest bill in your wallet (whilst looking adorably confused) you’ll survive.
Which course to take if I only would like to focus on teaching English online?
If online teaching is your primary goal, we would always recommend at least the 120 hour TEFL training. If you would like to specialise in specific categories, you can upper your qualifications by adding 30 hour specialist’s courses such as:
- Teaching Young Learners
- Teaching Business English
- Preparation for IELTS Exam
- Preparation for TOEIC Exam
And of course, adding our 30 hour Teaching English Online course is a huge benefit as it focuses to prepare you (the teacher) how to enter online tutoring world.