These qualifications are recommended because they are externally validated and have a teaching practice component. If you decide to take one of these qualifications, it is important to be sure that the qualification you take is also recognised by your employers and/or future employers. Though these qualifications are internationally recognised, they are not automatically recognised in some sectors and some countries. You will also need the funding to pay for the preparation course and exam fees.

More information about qualifications can be found at:
www.cambridgeesol.org/
www.trinitycollege.co.uk/
http://www.lccieb.com/Web/lccieb/lcciebqualifications.aspx?mid=3

 

	Cambridge ESOL	Trinity College London
Higher teaching qualifications	DELTA	LTCL Diploma TESOL
In-service	ICELT	Joint Cert. TESOL
Teaching Knowledge	TKT (Teaching Knowledge Test)

Table comparing the teaching awards of Cambridge ESOL and Trinity College London at a developing skills level.

Higher teaching qualifications
The higher teaching qualifications (DELTA and LTCL Diploma) are widely accepted round the world. They are run in the UK and in many other countries. Both qualifications have been accredited by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) for England and Wales at Level 7.

You can take the DELTA full time (typically two to three months), or part time (from six months to over a year). Cambridge ESOL has also developed a Distance DELTA in collaboration with International House London. Several LTCL Diploma TESOL course providers offer distance learning options. In the last year more than 75% of Trinity candidates have followed blended learning courses (EL Gazette, December, 2007).

In-service certificates
You may consider one of the following qualifications, which are particularly targeted at practicing teachers for whom English is not their first language.

Cambridge ESOL’s ICELT (In-service Certificate in English Language Teaching) is designed to help practising teachers deepen their knowledge and develop their ability to reflect on and improve their teaching. Course programmes are designed for specific needs and working contexts. The main aim is to develop skills in the following areas: language awareness and language use in the classroom; planning, teaching and evaluation; assessment and evaluation.

Trinity College London’s Joint Certificate TESOL is offered on successful completion of a validated in-service training programme run outside the United Kingdom for practising teachers whose first language is not English. Each Joint CertTESOL programme is slightly different as it is negotiated between Trinity and a regional or national education authority and/or a respected training organisation outside the UK. The qualification awarded is known as the Joint CertTESOL, delivered in association with the course provider and/or local authority.

The level of English for both courses should be at least Level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. ICELT is also suitable for first language speakers of English.

Teaching knowledge
The Teaching Knowledge Test (TKT) assesses the knowledge you need for teaching English, including teaching methodologies, the 'language of teaching', using resources, lesson planning and classroom management. Actual teaching is not tested. The test is suitable for teachers with at least an intermediate (CEF B1) level of English, who need or want a qualification to show their understanding of the principles of contemporary language teaching.

Business English teaching
LCCI (London Chamber of Commerce & Industry) offers the FTBE (Further Certificate for Teachers of Business English) for qualified teachers of general English who wish to gain a supplementary specialist teaching qualification in English for business purposes. The exam is designed to broaden the teacher's understanding of business practice, processes and procedures. It also assesses the teacher's management skills.