Course content

The length of the course is 120 contact hours. In addition to this, Cambridge ESOL estimate that candidates will need to devote 120 hours to additional learning. This consists of completion of a Pre Course task, lesson planning and preparation of teaching materials, reading, research and writing of assignments.

The course covers the following syllabus:

The Learner, the Teacher and the Learning/Teaching Context
Language analysis and awareness
Language skills: reading, listening, speaking and writing
Planning and resources for different teaching contexts
Developing teaching skills and professionalism.

Methodology sessions (Input sessions)

Input sessions focus on practical teaching techniques and the language knowledge required for teaching. These sessions include a variety of activities such as group work to develop language awareness, the completion of language analysis tasks, model lessons and teaching techniques demonstrated by tutors, observation and analysis of teaching videos or DVDs, peer teaching in groups to practise teaching techniques and mini lectures.

Teaching Practice (TP)

Teaching Practice starts on Day 3 of the course. There will be a maximum of 12 candidates on the course, divided for teaching practice into two groups of 6. Each candidate will have a total of 6 hours observed and assessed teaching practice, organized into 9 lessons at two different levels. You will teach classes of volunteer practice students. During post-teaching feedback sessions candidates will have the opportunity to reflect and discuss their teaching with colleagues and one of the tutors. You will receive detailed written feedback from your tutor after each lesson.

Tutorials and assessment

Progress is monitored and guided through a system of tutorials. Each candidate will have two individual tutorials with one of the tutors. Assessment of the course is continuous, integrated and based on meeting the course assessment criteria as laid down by Cambridge ESOL over TWO components – 6 hours of planning and teaching and four classroom-related written assignments. To be awarded the Certificate, both components must be completed successfully.