CELTA

How to Prepare for CELTA

You will be given a reading list upon enrolment. If you are interested in finding out a bit more about what the course will entail, we recommend The CELTA Course Trainee Book by Scott Thornbury and Peter Watkins.

What Does the CELTA Program Involve?

The course is both theoretical and practical, aiming to give students the skills and knowledge they need to become leading language instructors. We focus on the principles underlying language teaching. 
Our course is designed to allow students with little or no experience to become fully competent and qualified English teachers. After studying CELTA with LSI/IH Portsmouth, students will be adept at core skills, including: 

• Syllabus design, 

• Classroom management, 

• Presenting new language, 

• Using resources and materials

• Assessing learners.

The CELTA is made up of face-to-face instruction, teaching practice and reflection. Our course contains the following components:

• Input sessions on language awareness, student awareness, classroom management and lesson planning,

• Daily small group teaching practice with students at different language levels,

• Detailed feedback and discussion sessions with tutors,

• Observation of qualified teachers and your peers.

The five main topics you will cover in the CELTA course are:

• Learners and teachers, and the teaching and learning context,

• Language analysis and awareness,

• Language skills: reading, listening, speaking and writing,

• Planning and resources for different contexts,

• Developing teaching skills and professionalism.

Students will also develop key soft skills for success in the TEFL industry, including creating a convincing CV, finding job opportunities, and succeeding at interviews for teaching roles.

CELTA Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, you will have:

• Acquired an understanding of English teaching methodology, theory and principles,

• Developed classroom management skills,

• Understood the key principles of language testing and assessment,

• Become familiar with and assessed course books and tests,

• Designed syllabi, lesson plans and tests,

• Selected and designed appropriate teaching material,

• Become familiar with strategies for presenting new language and dealing with pronunciation,

• Acquired and practised strategies for teaching reading, speaking, listening and writing skills,

• Observed live lessons taught by experienced teachers,

• And put the accumulated knowledge in practice through teaching real students in an actual classroom.

How is CELTA Assessed?

Assessment is made on a continuous basis and there is no final exam. However, particular emphasis is given to teaching appropriate lessons effectively. 
Please note that your teaching practice is supervised and followed by detailed feedback, assessment and group evaluation. In addition to the assessed teaching practice, the course also includes written assignments. 
You will be assessed regularly and kept up-to-date with your progress throughout the course during scheduled tutorial sessions. Final assessment is made on three main areas: 

• Professional Development,

•  Written Assignments and 

• Teaching Practice.

To receive a CELTA certificate you will need to complete the course and pass all written and practical assignments. You will be assessed on 6 hours of teaching practice and 4 written assignments. There are three passing grades: Pass A, Pass B and Pass.

Is CELTA Difficult?

CELTA is a demanding and intensive course. You should be prepared to complete regular assignments and assessments. The course is designed for students with the disposition, potential and drive to become an effective teacher. 
Throughout the course you will need to spend a substantial amount of time on lesson preparation and written assignments. This means that in addition to the 120 contact hours, you will have to work at least a further 120 hours in your own time in order to pass. 
100% attendance is expected. Due to the practical nature of the course there is little chance of making up time.