TEFL & TESOL Courses in Thailand
10 Good Reasons to Take a TEFL Course in the Land of Smiles
Thailand has an increasing demand for qualified English teachers. It is also an ideal destination to take your TEFL Certificate, whether just for a holiday or for work.
The last 5 years have seen a big growth in teacher training providers and there is a wide choice for those who are looking to take their teaching certificate in Thailand.
International chains such as International House have recently joined the fold, and established organizations like Text and Talk offer locally, tailor-made courses, concentrating on Thai learner problems.
ECC is the oldest and most established CELTA course provider in Thailand but it now has competition from other training institutions such as Elite and International House.
Consider taking one of the many local courses available, but ensure that they meet the international standard (usually 100+ hours of tuition and 6 hours observed teaching practice) if you want your certification to be recognized internationally. Check that these courses are accredited by the Thai Ministry of Education.
TEFL course providers can be found in all the major tourist resorts in Thailand, although many of the main teaching centers are based in Bangkok.
10 Good Reasons to take your TEFL/TESOL Course in Thailand
1. The price of TEFL courses are cheaper than in the UK or US. The renowned Cambridge CELTA, for example is $1500 in Thailand, compared to $2000 in the UK. CELTA courses run for four weeks and include 40 hours of full-time study.
2. Excluding the CELTA, there is a range of other international and local courses, recognized by the Thai Ministry of Education. Some of these can be taken part-time, giving you more time to explore the country.
3. Accommodation is extremely cheap. The saving of $500 (around 15,000 Baht) on the CELTA course, will pay for a month’s basic accommodation, giving you an exotic holiday destination thrown in. Basic studio accommodation with a bathroom can cost around 5,000 Baht. A well-furnished studio in the heart of Bangkok will cost upwards of 12,000 Baht. With all accommodation however, expect to pay a deposit, usually the equivalent of 2 months rent.
4. Combine TEFL studies with a vacation in Thailand, where money goes much further than back home. Eat and drink at local Thai restaurants and a good meal will cost you no more than $5.00 - $10.00.
5. Clothing, transportation and entertainment are very good value. Shop at the local Thai markets for the best bargains. If in Bangkok, don’t forget Chatuchak weekend market – the largest open-air market in the world. Chatuchak has over 15,000 stalls and sells everything from T-shirts to exotic pets and plants.
6. Work is plentiful after graduation from the course. If you do not have a degree then you will definitely need a TEFL certificate in order to find a job as an English teacher in Thailand. Many positions require a degree and a teaching certificate (especially in government schools), but not all. Language schools are more flexible.
7. Thailand is a good stepping stone for other teaching jobs or travel in Asia. China, Taiwan, Korea and Vietnam also offer good opportunities and pay higher salaries.
8. Having experience teaching Thai students increases your marketability. After completing your teaching practice with Thai students, you are aware of the principles of a tonal Asian language, and are able to identify typical Thai and Asian learner errors.
9. Thai students are, in the main, a joy to teach. Fun-loving and easy-going, they are curious and hard-working.
10. There is a lot of support for the trainee teacher including an excellent resource center at the British Council in Bangkok. They also run a number of free workshops for teachers. Resources and materials are often cheaper in Thailand too.
For those who already have teaching experience and a degree, then armed with a TEFL certificate, it is possible to apply to the international schools , which offer the best pay and working conditions.
For more information on CELTA and other Thai based TEFL Courses, visit Thailand’s most popular website for teachers - Ajarn.com.
