Looking for an easy way to move abroad for work? What about finding a job that allows you to travel? Teaching English as a foreign language is one way to get abroad and make a difference. TEFL English courses are an excellent way to jumpstart a teaching career, too. Having a TEFL certificate will not only allow you to teach, it will simultaneously allow you to travel as well. Travel while being paid to do so!
There are plenty of jobs both near and afar seeking native English-speaking candidates like yourself. Let me tell you.
Before you can become the teacher, you must become the student!
Native English speakers once used to be able to show up in a foreign country and easily find gigs teaching English without any justification. You speak, you can write, here’s your class. Welcome. Or something of the sort. But times have changed. And there’s a lot of information online related to teaching and working abroad. Now, most institutions or teaching agencies require their professors to possess TEFL or another form of teaching qualifications and certificates. The industry has grown immensely over the past decade and teaching English as a foreign language has become more competitive. Taking an TEFL English course will give you a leg up on the competition preparing you to step on the stage and teach like a rockstar.
8 reasons to do TEFL in the UK
1. Get abroad!
Opting to obtain your TEFL certificate in the UK is an excellent way to start your journey abroad from the get-go. Think of it as your warm-up before venturing further. You’ll already be on the move and this can help your transition wherever you might end up. TEFL training courses in the UK work with people from all over the world. They can also support you through administration processes like obtaining your visa, and other logistics like housing. This will help lessen your load as you make a transition overseas.
A TEFL course in London, even a rainy one, will not disappoint.
2. British English
Brush up on your British English. There are many ways to say the same thing - it’s true. Understanding expressions and different vocabulary is crucial to being a good professor. Same language, but sometimes spoken so differently from that of American or Australian English, for example. Taking TEFL training courses in the UK will allow you to expand upon your existing fluency and become more versatile as a teacher.
3. The destination becomes your classroom
Taking TEFL training courses in an English speaking country turns your entire environment into the classroom. The lines are completely blurred between formal and informal learning. At the market, on public transit, in a cafe, and in formal TEFL course in the UK. This type of experience is where you will benefit the most from, hands down. Once you start, you might not be able to stop. Learning.
4. Professional network
There is so much more than just taking TEFL training courses in the UK. Programs not only successfully certify their students, but they also help students build their professional networks. Having the right contacts will help you land your next teaching gig with ease. Well established TEFL courses in England have connected students with teaching positions around the world. They’ll help you, too! Don’t forget about your professional network. These can be very important.
5. Methodology
Getting your TEFL certificate in the UK can be a practical combination of in-person and online training.
Challenge your existing teaching methods if your a veteran professor or create a new teaching methodology if you’re just stepping on to the scene. TEFL training courses in the UK will help you develop the appropriate skills to master your future classroom while creating your proper curriculum. You will feel more prepared and comfortable in front of your future classes. These training courses will make it easy for you.
6. Meet other aspiring ESL teachers
Taking your TEFL course in UK will give you the opportunity to meet other current or fellow aspiring teachers from all over the world. Sharing this experience with others will make your journey more enjoyable. And who knows, maybe you’ll continue your travels abroad together. Your classmates might just become your future colleagues.
7. International education
Spiff up your teaching resume or CV with real-deal international education experiences. Gaining an international education not only increases your cultural competencies, but also your intellectual horizon as well. Being an international student will help you understand your future students and what its like to learn in a foreign environment. It’s good to understand both sides of the coin.
8. You’re so close to the rest of Europe
Drum roll...the UK is in Europe. Therefore, doing TEFL courses in the UK puts you in close proximity to the rest of Europe. Between trains and planes the rest of Europe is more than accessible. Take this time to explore new territories and cultures. You’ll have so much to see and do that you might not ever want to leave. But hey, don’t forget why you went there in the first place ;)
Top UK TEFL providers to get you started
This is our up-to-date round up of the current best TEFL courses in London and beyond.
1. The TEFL Institute of Ireland
There is a world of opportunity in choosing the UK for your TEFL certification! Train where English was born, instantly boosting your teaching credibility and global job prospects. UK TEFL courses are internationally recognised, blending expert trainers with immersive British culture and language experiences. Enjoy flexible online and in-person options in iconic cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester. You’ll develop fundamental classroom skills, professional networks, and confidence to teach anywhere, abroad, online, or at home. The TEFL Institute of Ireland stands out as one of the top TEFL course providers in the UK, offering government-regulated, internationally recognised TEFL certifications accredited by Ofqual (UK) and AQC (USA).
2. St. Clare’s, Oxford
St Clare’s is a prestigious, independent international college in North Oxford, offering Cambridge CELTA and DELTA Level 5 qualifications within a supportive, culturally diverse setting. The intensive 4‑week CELTA courses accommodate up to 12 trainees per cohort, featuring six hours of observed teaching practice, expert feedback, and access to the academic resources of Oxford’s renowned learning community. With consistently strong pass rates, multilingual peer groups, and a Cambridge-accredited certification recognized globally, St Clare’s is an excellent option for those seeking a highly credible and immersive TEFL experience in the UK.
3. International TEFL Certificate Program - ACT
Obtaining your TEFL course in England is an excellent idea. Learn more about the basics of the English language teaching like grammar and phonetics, lesson planning and classroom management while living in London - the center of it all. Certificate programs are offered through a four week curriculum which fully prepare students to teach in a wide variety of settings both near and afar. Accommodation is offered to those who are interested, otherwise, you are welcome to find your own living arrangements.
4. TEFL Training College
TEFL Training College offers a flexible, comprehensive TEFL certification through its Thinkific-powered platform, with both fully online and blended classroom options. The curriculum covers modern teaching methodologies, practical lesson planning, and real-world case studies, all delivered by experienced instructors. With ongoing tutor support, lifetime access to course materials, and a global alumni network, this program empowers participants to confidently launch international or online English teaching careers.
- More info: Read TEFL Training College reviews
[Browse ALL TEFL Certificate Programs in the United Kingdom]
You’re ready for TEFL in the UK!
You’ll be a proud TEFL graduate in no time!
There are a wide range of TEFL courses in the UK. While some are short and sweet, be aware of what potential employers are interested in, in terms of their professors’ qualifications. For example, many teaching agencies require their professors to have a 120-hour TEFL certificate. Do your research and understand what employers are interested in. Check into job descriptions in your desired location to get an idea of some of the requirements. Knowing what might be expected of you for future positions can help determine the path that you choose to take. You have a little research ahead of yourself.
Teaching is a rewarding and underrated profession. Teaching English as a foreign language is certainly not an exception. Not only do you have the opportunity to share your language, you are also sharing your culture too. Whether you’re looking for a career in teaching or simply a year or two abroad, obtaining your TEFL certificate in the UK is not a bad idea.
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