TEFL/CELTA Certification

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gareththesecond
gareththesecond

I posted this in a couple of other branches, but was directed here.

I know there are several posts about this topic throughout this forum, however I'm having some difficutly finding any information that is very helpful regarding it. I've read many posts where people say that getting this certification is waste of time, that you won't actually be able to find a job (or a well paying one at that) even if you do get certified, and so on.
Despite these comments I'm still interested in getting TEFL certified in Latin America, especially somewhere in Mexico or South America. I'm looking for some advice from people who have experience with these programs and the institutions who provide them. I'm seeking recommendations for reputable CELTA/TEFL institutions in Mexico, Peru, or Chile and suggestions for which cities offer a great experience. As far as Mexico goes, I'm particularly interested in Mexico City, Merida, or Playa del Carmen. Regarding Peru, I'm leaning towards Arequipa. I should also mention that I do wish to seek employment upon receiving my certification. (Yes, I know the pay sucks in most places and I should have a good amount of money in my savings if I wish to do this.)
I know this is pretty vague, but I've been doing research for a few months now and still don't feel like I'm anywhere near reaching a possible decision. Mexico and Peru are my top choices, but if you think someplace elsewhere in Latin America is better, then please let me know. A reason why would be helpful as well :) Also, if you know of any reputable websites/agencies who I could visit/contact for further information, that would be a great help.

¡Muchisimas gracias!

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zzark
zzark

Your best bet for good professional opinion about programs and jobs in Latin America is probably NatureGirlSKC (that's a link to her profile here) - just my opinion. She is often on this board, but not always on this particular forum. She has experience in Peru and can probably also connect you with good people in Mexico. I hope she doesn't mind me saying that. Her website is TEFL Tips.

Just like any other job, your ability to find good work has a lot to do with how well you present yourself - assuming you have the training/education/experience the employer is asking for. In some places a good TEFL cert is frosting on the cake - in others it is a requirement.

There are, in many places, jobs left unfilled as they can't find enough teachers. It is not difficult to find and land decent jobs. Some people forget though, that these are real jobs and they use very casual job search methods, rather unsuccessfully. I've done a bit of recruiting and it is not unusual for someone to send me a photo of themselves drunk in bar or to have an email address like hotsex69 @ hotmail.com -- or they use other similar methods that - for some reason - they think will help them land a job. Would you hire such a person . . . ?

The wages you may earn will depend heavily on the country in which you choose to teach. If you want to SAVE good money, go where they pay well: Korea, The Middle East, Taiwan.

There are certainly some people who think training is a waste of time, but my opinion based on 20+ years working abroad is that, while TEFL is not rocket science, there is a method to the madness and the better teachers (measured by the results their students achieve) tend to have had some formal training. There are, of course, always a few exceptions, but they are few and far between.

If you go to a developing country and take money from people who are hoping you can teach them skills to improve their lives, I think it is only fair to learn how to deliver those skills. TEFL training is a good way to do that and I am glad you are giving it serious consideration.

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gareththesecond
gareththesecond

Thank you so much, the TEFL Tips website is fantastic. It has definitely helped me out a lot. I have yet to contact NatureGirlSKC, but may in the future for specific information regarding Peru.

Your help is greatly appreciated, thanks again!

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maximisses
maximisses

Try the forums of Expat Peru

There are some great people on that website that may help your or at least direct you to places you may wish to live etc. They also have a good job board.

Regards,

Sonya

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