My Journey into ESOL Teaching





Over the years, I’ve written lots of posts on this blog, but I’ve rarely shared much about my own journey. So, here’s a little look at what led me into teaching—and why I would recommend ESOL as a career.

     



My interest in teaching English to international students began when I was a teenager. My family regularly hosted students from other countries visiting the UK, particularly from Germany, China and Hong Kong, so I grew up with many international friends. I really enjoyed studying French at school and later had the opportunity to work as a short-term English teaching assistant in France while studying for my A Levels. 


This experience led me to pursue a degree in English Language and TEFL at Swansea University, where I achieved a First-Class degree. After graduating, I decided to take my Cert TESOL course in Bournemouth.


      
              



The Cert TESOL course taught me how to teach English with confidence and gave me an excellent foundation in understanding English grammar and teaching methodologies. It also provided valuable hands-on classroom experience and the opportunity to observe experienced teachers.


Since completing my Cert TESOL, I have worked in a number of English language schools around Plymouth, as well as both volunteering and working at Odils Learning Foundation (ODILS). I have been working at ODILS since 2015, where I have taught a range of ESOL and Functional Skills classes. Over time, I have gained extensive experience teaching students with low literacy and very little English. I love seeing how much progress these students can make in a short amount of time.


In addition to teaching, I now take on several roles at ODILS. I manage our team of volunteers, run our social media pages, and help to organise social events such as Careers Fairs and parties.

I would highly recommend taking the Cert TESOL course, as it can enable you to teach English both in the UK and around the world, leading to a truly rewarding career.


Here is a link to my current school Odils Learning Foundation and our social media pages: 



  



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