With the WTEFLAC’s Code of Conduct you can assess the qualities of TEFL or TESOL providers to make sure you choose the right option for you.

Thousands of people are looking to start TEFL courses to gain a career teaching English as a foreign language, but courses come in all shapes and sizes. Some are better than others. The World TEFL Accrediting Commission was set up to provide guidance and help people choose the best course for their needs. The code of conduct provides a useful basis on which to start, but many factors that could influence any decision. Here are just a few.

Does it meet minimum standards?

In an unregulated environment anyone can set themselves up as a TEFL or TESOL provider. They can publish a website and send out all sorts of marketing material. That doesn’t mean they offer value for money. Before you do anything, you should make sure they meet minimum standards.

Check that it offers the following:

• Is a legitimate company.
• Has qualified tutors with practical experience in teaching as a foreign language.
• Offers the minimum number of hours teaching.
• Courses are laid out in a clear manner and include peer-to-peer practical learning.
• The provider has a commitment to review and improve their offerings.

These are the questions the WTEFLAC asked in its code of practice and the threshold each company would have to meet in order to be accredited.

Is it for you?

Having ensured providers are legitimate, you need to make sure the provider is right for you. For example, if you’re looking for an introduction to the TEFL world, a shorter course might be sufficient.

Those who want to teach English to foreigners in the USA would be best looking for a Teaching English to Speakers of Foreign Languages. This provides you with all the skills you need to teach English to people who have come to the Uand are looking to learn the language.

Anyone looking to teach abroad, meanwhile, would be best going for the main TEFL courses (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) which leads to an internationally recognised qualification to teach English overseas.

You might also look to choose providers who not only provide you with a basic qualification to teach English but also furnish you with the tools needed to find an actual placement.

How much does it cost?

As with anything, TEFL and TESOL courses are aimed at students across the entire spectrum. Some offer higher fees for a more comprehensive course that may include additional help with placements, while others offer a more affordable option for people on tighter budgets.

As long as both are fully accredited, they should meet minimum standards and provide you with a satisfactory, professional standard qualification.

Making the choice

The choice of TEFL provider, therefore, depends largely on you and your individual situation. Some will want a comprehensive offering that can help them find a placement. Others will simply want an introduction or a refresher course to improve their existing skills. Either way, it’s important to conduct due diligence on any provider to make sure they can do what they claim.