Professional Development

While not always required, having a bachelor’s degree in any subject is often a minimum qualification for many ESL teaching positions, especially abroad. Degrees in Education, English, Linguistics, or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) are highly regarded.

A TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification is a must-have for most ESL teaching jobs. These programs typically require 120 hours of coursework and cover teaching methodology, lesson planning, and language acquisition.
Some certifications, such as CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults), are more widely recognised and can open doors to more prestigious teaching roles. My personal recommendation is to do the CELTA if you are really serious about a career in teaching English. It is quite expensive, but it is a widely recognised, especially for more desirable jobs, such as international universities etc. You can do it full-time or part time. Fair warning: the full-time course is intensive! I can tell you that from personal experience! Institutions like International House, the British Council and many more offer it.

Practical teaching experience is often highly valued. If you’re new to teaching, look for volunteer opportunities, internships, or entry-level teaching jobs that allow you to practice teaching skills.
Many ESL programs (both online and abroad) require at least one year of teaching experience, so getting hands-on experience early can help build a strong resume.

Specialising in areas like Business English, Academic English (also call EAP - English for Academic Purposes), or English for Young Learners can make you stand out. Consider taking additional courses or gaining certification in these specialised areas.

If you plan to teach abroad, research the specific requirements for teaching in different countries. For example, some countries require a degree specifically in Education or additional qualifications like a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education). For international schools, a PGCE is almost always required.
Some countries may have visa restrictions based on nationality, age, or qualifications, so it's essential to be informed about the local regulations.

With the rise of online teaching platforms, being comfortable with technology is essential. Learn how to use popular teaching tools like Zoom, Google Classroom, interactive whiteboards, and learning management systems (LMS).
For online teaching, understanding how to create engaging content using multimedia, quizzes, and other online tools can significantly improve your effectiveness.

For those looking to advance into higher positions, such as in universities or professional language schools, a Master’s degree in TESOL, Linguistics, or Applied Linguistics might be necessary.
Some teaching roles, especially in academic institutions, may also require a teaching license or professional accreditation from recognised bodies like the British Council or TESOL International Association.