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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there so many acronyms for teaching English? What is TEFL, TESOL, CELTA etc.?

In short, they all mean the same thing. They are all certifications to teach English and job adverts will ask for any or all 3. TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teaching English as a Second or Other Language) are equivalents. CELTA and the Trinity College Certificate are more common in the UK . If you want to teach in Asia, the USA or Central or South America then the TEFL International Barcelona certification is by far the best known.

 

 

What are the requirements for being accepted into the course? 

We have teachers from all nationalities, backgrounds and ages (from recent high school graduates to retirees). The only "must" is a proficient level of English and an eager desire to be a passionate teacher.

 

 

How long does the application process take?

Our process is very straight-forward and easy. Simply fill out the application form on the apply page and we will review your profile and get back to you within 24-48 hours (Monday through Friday).

 

This would be the time to let us know of any hinderances that might interfere with you taking full advantage of the course and we can set up a time to speak directly.

 

 

Can I start teaching immediately upon completion of this course?

Absolutely. No further qualifications are needed for entry level English teaching positions around the world. 

 

 

Can I teach English if I am not a native speaker?

Absolutely. We have had many non-native speakers take our course and become successful English teachers. You might not realise it but if you have an advanced level of English you are already intimately familiar with English grammar, whereas most native speakers take their language for granted and have never had to analise their language. Remember: Everybody has different strengths.

 

Feel free to contact us with any concerns you might have. 

 

 

Do I need to speak any other languages?

For 95% of the positions advertised today, no, however there are special classes where the native languages might be needed (working with babies, dealing with parents, etc.). 

 

 

What is the average day like in class?

There are more details but the average day looks like this:

  • 10:00 till 1:00=morning input sessions (grammar, classroom management etc.)

  • 1:00 till 2:00=lunch

  • 2:00 till 4:00=lesson planning in a group setting

  • 4:00 till 6:00=teaching practice

  • 6:00 till 7:00=Feedback and brainstorming to improve

 

You will be teaching between 6 to 8 times during the course and the days that you are not teaching you are free after the morning input sessions. 

 

 

Will I just be dropped in the deep-end and start teaching immediately?

Yes and No. The first few classes are spent observing experienced teachers and by the third or fourth day you will begin teaching. Do not worry, it is not as scary as it seems! The first classes we provide you with the material and constant support in your preparation and your job is simply to prepare the lesson plan and present it in class. Each time you teach we will pull back a little and by the end of the course you will be planning and teaching your own material. 

 

 

What is the average time it takes to land a job?

Our job guidance workshops start on the second day of the course. This time is used to get your CV together and to show you the most effective ways to get your name out there. If you take advantage of these workshops it is not uncommon to get a job during the course, but most graduates are working 2 weeks upon completing the course. 

 

 

How much can I expect to make in Barcelona teaching English as a first-year teacher?

The average first year teacher pay is around 900€ to 1,500€ a month depending on many factors (types of classes, your experience, your motivation, etc).

 

At an academy you can expect to make (based on a 20/25-hour work week) about 1,100€ (net income). Business and private classes pay more hourly (between 15€ and 30€) but you will most likely not have a contract.

 

If you are putting in the work and constantly looking for students you will live very comfortably all over Spain.

 

*Keep in mind minimum wage in Spain is 690€ a month, hopefully that gives you some perspective.

 

 

How much does it cost to live in Barcelona? Can I survive?

The average rent is anywhere between 350€ to 500€ a month in a shared flat, depending on your needs and wants. Bills (electricity, water, etc. in a shared flat) cost around 50€ and the average person spends 160€ a month on food (40€ per week) and the rest is up to you.  On a 1,000€ a month salary you should have 200-300€ extra for fun.  

 

 

Is this course accredited?

Very good question and be wary of any course that is not. Many new courses will say they are moderated by someone and that is not the same thing. When a course is accredited many more job possibilities open up in the future. Be wary of any school that cannot answer this question with a confident “YES.” TEFL in Barcelona is accredited by Fort Hays State University and is moderated by industry leaders. 

 

 

Do you need a VISA to work legally in Spain? How do Americans live in Spain for one year?

Although we provide career guidance it is each individuals responsibility to manage their VISA/residency requirements in their home countries prior to moving to Spain. All EU citizens and people who hold dual citizenship (with an EU country) are automatically allowed to work and live in Spain. Non-EU citizens need to contact your own government to learn about your option. We offer student VISA options for countries that approve this (like the United States) and this allows you to live and work legally for more time than a travel VISA and once you register for the course we send you the steps in Spain to get the necessary paperwork started to work legally.

 

Feel free to join our facebook page to contect with other teachers with similiar backgrounds to learn first hand about their experience: https://www.facebook.com/groups/17975081879/

 

 

We hope that we have addressed your concerns. Let us know if you have any other questions that might be a value to this page. 

 

See these websites to learn more about moving to Barcelona

 

 

 

 

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