ESL Jobs Forum

[Crikkie]

Hello everyone! I have just signed up for this forum and am looking forward to meeting some interesting teachers and exchanging ideas with you!

I have a situation and would like to know what you think or what your experience has been.

I am an American with 7 years of English-teaching experience (4 of which as a full time English teacher for adults and post-high school level students) in Grenoble, France. I got an online TEFL certificate before finishing my Bachelor's degree 7 years ago and today would like to boost my qualifications and general knowledge of up-to-date teaching methods, as well as have some hands-on teacher training with feedback.

I have been looking at the CELTA just because it seems like THE English-teaching degree to have, but I'm not sure it is suited for me. I'm not trying to brag, but it seems like I have too much experience for the CELTA, which looks like it is aimed primarily at new teachers. Am I wrong about this? Has anyone been in a situation similar to mine?

If the CELTA isn't the best course for an experienced teacher, does anyone know of a better program?

Thanks for any helpful advice that you may have!

[Guy Courchesne]

Welcome to the forum!

If you already have 7 years experience and the online TEFL plus a degree, then the CELTA is a step backwards or at best, a piece of paper to put on the wall. If teaching is going to be your career, why not seek a Master's degree instead?
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[Crikkie]

Thanks for that advice and the warm welcome, Guy.

In fact I already have a Masters in Anglophone studies--American civilization. I got that from a French university here in Grenoble. I forgot to mention that in the first post.

I think it would be difficult for me to go back to school for a full two years as I have grown accustomed to a monthly paycheck (not to mention the mortgage payments that go with it!)

I think I'm looking for some kind of professional development courses that would allow me to have some certification (preferably with face-to-face time and feedback, which my online course didn't give) and to negotiate a higher salary.

Any ideas anyone?