BootsnAll Travel Community

I'm begginning to explore the possibility of teaching english overseas. I don't know too much yet,so I thought I'd ask you all about TEFL International. I was just browsing their website and a few of their special offers caught my eye. Their Thai project and China project include TEFL certifcation and a 4-month placement afterwards in a school.
here are links to the two:
http://www.bestteflcourse.com/specialOfferMonthChiangMai.shtml

http://www.bestteflcourse.com/specialOfferMonthChina.shtml

Are these programs a good route to go, or would it be better to find an ESL job through other means? Are there any drawbacks to taking this route, like do they take a cut of the pay for themselves or something? Again, I don't really know too much so any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

I did TEFL Internation in Zhuhai, China about four years ago and it was pretty good. I mean, I had never taught before so my biggest question (for myself) was what the hell would I do if somebody put me in front of students and told me to teach them?! The 30-day course, with its practice teaching sessions in real classrooms, gave me the confidence to get through the first day and beyond. I didn't do the volunteer placement project thing, so I can't answer about that. And I do know that some would tell you that if you want to get certified in a 30-day course, do the CELTA since it's more widely recognized and respected. But the bottom line is most schools these days ask for a TEFL certificate, and TEFL International was a good experience for me. Lots of busy work, but 30 days afterwards I was so much better off than before I started.

Anyway, good luck and have fun.

Oooh I hate when the guy replying doesn't even answer your main question. Oh yeah, I was the replying guy. Sorry 'bout that. I was fortunate in that TEFL International gave me a good recommendation and was directly responsible for landing me a good job, but I don't think I'm the norm. But the volunteer thing sounds great in terms of you having four months' of actual teaching experience on your resume after you've finished. In any case, TEFL International is reputable. I'm sure others have complaints, but I don't.

Take a look at How to Select a TEFL School for a good long list of questions to ask - before deciding.

While I am a fan of "volunteering" type programs - some that offer lower wages during your volunteering, just mean you pay more for your certificate as the TEFL program is getting paid via the back door for your lower than average wage placement.

All that said, yes, TEFL Int'l is a reputable program - though there are many others as well.

You can also just go direct to: TEFL International and find their special projects in China, Vietnam and Thailand.

I'd like to hear of people's experience with this program.

My apologies for the "bump", but I am curious if anyone on the board has gone through the "Special Projects"?