Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
iQ2. How is the standard of quality training maintained?
iQ3. Why are some trainees unsuccessful?
- Insufficient time to commit to the course: Some people have not appreciated the time commitment needed and have not been able to devote the necessary time to the course.
- Inability to handle pressure: You will have to be resilient under pressure and stress and be able to work to deadlines. Your learning style has to be such that you can take in information rapidly and then organise your time effectively in order to assimilate it. Returning to the role of student can be a difficult adjustment. This is something to bear in mind in preparation for this course.
- Lack of self-reflection: For success on this course, you must be able to both self-evaluate and accept constructive criticism about the teaching skills that you demonstrate in the classroom. Being objective, taking praise and criticism on board and acting on it is essential for success.
- Undisclosed conditions: In rare cases where trainees have failed to disclose important information regarding their mental, physical or emotional well-being, the intensity of the course combined with their pre-existing symptoms has affected their performance on the course. It is important to emphasise that the TESOL Certificate course is not going to be an escape or distraction from known problems. Instead it may be an additional burden.
iQ4. Are jobs readily available?
Good TESOL teachers are in constant demand in Hong Kong. English teaching posts are available at private language schools, international schools, local Chinese schools, kindergartens, universities and institutions such as the English Schools Foundation and the British Council. Some excellent jobs are advertised in the Thursday and Saturday editions of the 'South China Morning Post', the 'HK Magazine', and 'jobsdb.com'.
The demand for teachers rises in the summer holidays as many institutions offer intensive courses for children in Hong Kong. These summer courses are often very well paid. But part-time and full-time positions can also be found at other times of the year, especially around September and February when the school terms begin. It is important for those seeking work to maintain availability for relief and supply work. Successful part-time contracts often lead to a permanent full-time post. With the introduction of many grant schemes for the Chinese schools in Hong Kong, additional posts for Native TESOL teachers within the schools are certain to arise. We often have part-time vacancies here at English for Asia, tutoring classes to primary and secondary level students. Many successful candidates will be offered the chance to begin their teaching career almost immediately after the course.
Overseas:
There is a terrific demand for native English teachers throughout Southern and Eastern Europe, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Keep an eye on international educational supplements such as 'The Times Educational Supplement' or the British 'Overseas Job Gazette' and Tuesday edition of 'The Guardian', as well as websites such as 'tefl.com'.
At the end of the course we offer guidance in applying for jobs both overseas and within Hong Kong. We have a network of contacts and are regularly informed of vacancies, so we will keep in contact with you after the course should you need extra help or advice.
iQ5. What is the difference between TESOL and CELTA?
- sessions on one-to-one teaching as well as teaching whole classes
- sessions on teaching young learners
- pre-course study material
iQ6. What is the difference between TESOL, TEFL and TESL?
iQ7. Can I do the certificate by distance learning?
iQ8. Do I need to have taught before to be able to do the course?
iQ9. Can I do the course if English isn't my first language?
iQ10. Is the CertTESOL a recognised course?
iQ11. Where can I buy ELT books?
iQ12. Will I be qualified to teach children as well as adults?
iQ13. How much should I budget for one month’s expenses in Hong Kong?
Tuition for the CertTESOL: $25,000
Rent
Between $6,000 and $20,000 for an apartment (rent is generally cheaper in the New Territories or on Lamma, Cheung Chau or Lantau Islands). Shared rentals are also common among young professionals. Alternatively, try www.airbnb.com or www.28hse.com/en/rent
Transportation
MTR (subway): $5-12 per trip on Hong Kong Island; $11-$14 per trip from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island; $14 - $27 per trip from New Territories to Hong Kong Island.
Ferry: $700 - $900 per month will cover the cost of transportation from outlying islands such as Cheung Chau, Mui Wo (Lantau Island) & Lamma Island.
Tram: $2.30 per trip (only on Hong Kong Island).
You can choose to pay $100 to buy an Octopus card to use on public transport (this comes with $50 credit). The deposit on your Octopus card can be reclaimed from the service desks at MTR stations when you leave Hong Kong. For more information visit www.mtr.com.hk/
Food
Between $50 and $150 per meal, depending on where you choose to go. In the area around our training centre (Sheung Wan) there are plenty of great small cafes serving a range of international food from local Chinese (usually cheaper) to French fine dining and affordable salad boxes, lunch sets, sandwiches and coffee.
For more information on living expenses visit: http://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Hong+Kong