CELTA Advice from Jonathan Edgar

How long were you an EFL teacher, and how long have you been a teacher trainer?

I started teaching in 2012 and I have taught in eight countries and on three continents. Teacher training is a new experience for me and I am looking forward to learning a new role and helping with ideas based on what I already know. I am currently doing a mix of teaching and ADOSing which feels like a good balance because I still really enjoy being in the classroom.

Did you have a different career before EFL?

I was working as a golf tour operator in Scotland where I discovered I don’t like golf. To be honest, I already knew I didn’t like golf!

What are your hopes/aspirations for your trainees?

I hope they also realise they don’t like golf, but perhaps more importantly, I hope they enjoy the learning experience and get practical value out of it which will help them develop their teaching.

When you were an EFL teacher what did you like most, and how do you bring that into the classroom for your trainees?

I still am a teacher and I enjoy the feeling of trying something new or experimenting and it actually working. I think it keeps things interesting for the students and means you are always learning as a teacher. I would encourage the trainees to make mistakes, try new things and try to reflect equally on the things that work and the things that don’t. I like that moment when students get to the end of the lesson and then they see the point of everything you did before it and how it connects to lead to that final stage. I think trainees usually experience the same thing where it can all seem a bit foggy, but with perseverance clarity usually comes through.

What advice would you give your trainees for successfully completing the course?

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If a trainee is finding it hard going, we can support them more effectively if they are honest about what they need. Also work hard and dedicate yourself to the course. There will be times when things might not go to plan, but use this as a valuable learning tool and don’t lose heart.

What advice would you give your trainees for an interesting and rewarding career?

It’s important that you choose the right jobs when starting out. Try to pick a job that places importance on professional development and give yourself time to learn the ropes. Once comfortable, make yourself uncomfortable by experimenting in the classroom and trying new things, they should help you get into the habit of staying fluid.