Maximo Nivel

Program Reviews

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Michael
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Wonderful introduction to TEFL

I had a wonderful experience obtaining my TEFL license with Wayne and Maximo Nivel. I couldn't have asked for a more supportive or properly challenging environment. I felt I was able to learn and grow at a pace that was appropriate for my comfort and abilities. The coursework is set up such that TEFLers can get real experience in front of students, which was a huge boost to my confidence. If I didn't have the opportunity to stand in front of students and teach, I don't think I would feel nearly as capable as I do now.
If you're looking to become an English teacher, it would be responsible of you to enroll in this program. You'll be a better teacher for it.

Pros
  • Wayne is amazing
  • Maximo's Staff is fantastic
  • Practical Experience!!!
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Nathan
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

TEFL in Antigua

I thoroughly enjoyed the TEFL program through Maximo Nivel in Antigua, Guatemala. The area was beautiful and the facilities were nice. I also enjoyed having so many options for activities to do while attending the program, such as Spanish classes, hiking tours, etc. However, the course requires focused attention, especially during the last two weeks. Yet every minute spent in the course was very valuable and enjoyable thanks to the TEFL trainer, Wayne. He made the course an excellent and rewarding experience. He is an excellent instructor and will really push you to improve your skills and be the best teacher you can be. If you are serious about improving your skills as a teacher, I highly reccomend Wayne and the course at Maximo Nivel.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
If you are coming into the program and expect to have a lot of free time to do other things, you will likely be disappointed. The course is not a vacation; it will require your full attention, particularly during the last two weeks. If you want to explore surrounding areas it is best to plan to do this during the first weekend or after you complete the course.
Pros
  • Excellent instructor/staff
  • Great learning experience
  • Very fun
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Izzy
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing experience in Cusco

I’m so glad I decided to study for my TEFL in Cusco!! The city is amazing and feels super safe, full of history and some amazing restaurants and landmarks to see. We were here for carnival and it was so much fun. Sean was the best teacher I have ever had and was so engaging and made every lesson enjoyable for the whole month. It was amazing that we had real life experience with the students and practical teaching lessons twice a week. All of the staff at Maximo are super helpful and the host families are amazing. I can’t recommend Maximo enough and very specifically doing your TEFL here with Sean, he’s the best!!!

What was your funniest moment?
Every lesson and class we had so much fun and laughed the whole way through!!
Pros
  • Making good friends and meeting so many people
  • Becoming qualified and enjoying every moment
Cons
  • The third week is super hard work and intense but worth it!
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Ian
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Life changing experience

What a life changing experience!! Sean was by far the best teacher I have had, the course was very intense however Sean’s teaching style made everything a bit easier.

For sure the most rewarding experiences I have ever had in one of the most beautiful & safest city’s Iv been too Cusco - Maximo were a pleasure to deal with, very organised and transparent company along with offering an incredible opportunity to teach in your last week of the course along with offering potential roles with them in Cusco, Costa Rica and Guatemala

What was your funniest moment?
Henlee
Pros
  • The people !
  • Sean was incredible
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Diana
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

TEFL in Antigua with Wayne.

As someone interested in gaining experience and tools for teaching English, this program was perfect because I learned and practiced applying the techniques and methods with real ESL students. Our instructor Wayne taught us using the techniques we were learning and made the class very interactive. We observed other teachers. We learned from each other in class, and from teaching ourselves in our practical teaching week. More than theoretical knowledge it is practical and experiential. Maximo does a good job of providing opportunities for cultural immersion and social interaction.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Be ready to be occupied doing different tasks in short periods of time: reading, class participation, written assignments, +5 hours of class observations, lesson planning, teaching at the very start, and teaching for an entire week.
Pros
  • Hands-on experience
  • Good instruction
  • Nice place of cultural immersion
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Miranda
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

One month volunteering with Maximo Nivel

I really enjoyed my experience volunteering with kids through Maximo for a month. I was able to work in two placements both with after school programs. I helped wherever was needed, taught some English, and just spent time with everyone at the projects. Taking the chicken buses to volunteering was cool as well. I am grateful for the experiences I had and the support that was provided to me by the Maximo staff. My host family was amazing, I met lots of new friends, and I really fell in love with Antigua.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Be prepared to be flexible. If you have a positive and open mindset, you will get so much more out of the experience than if you have specific rigid expectations.
Pros
  • Living with a host family.
  • Creating relationships with the kids and other volunteers.
  • Exploring Antigua and Guatemala.
Cons
  • The volunteer placements can feel unorganized - but if you are prepared for that and happy to jump in, you will likely have a better experience
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Alexander
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Truly life changing

I was not sure about TEFL or teaching English before I started this class. As the weeks went on I realized that I actually like teaching English. I don't think I would have felt this way if it weren't for the wonderful program and teacher at Maximo. I have learned soo much in this class, not only about teaching. Living in Antiqua is wonderful, the people are nice the food is grate, and it's soo beautiful. Experiencing a new culture is what tip this experience over the edge and made it truly wonderful.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
The first day of PTW was nerve-racking. It felt like I was dying and that I would surely fail but just know the first day is always the worst and it will be ok.
Pros
  • The teacher and administrators are always there for you
Cons
  • It is a lot of work
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Emory
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Forever grateful to Wayne!

I am confident that I would not have had the same experience if Wayne was not my TEFL trainer. He made the course incredibly enjoyable and I benefitted from it greatly. He may have the best content knowledge that I have ever seen displayed by an instructor. If you are thinking of getting your TEFL certification, you absolutely have to get it with Wayne. TRUST ME! He is also so selfless and even though he has an incredibly busy schedule, he always makes time for his students and is always available to give advice or lend a listening ear. Can't thank you enough Wayne!!!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Work hard, but enjoy your time here. It goes by fast.
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Alondra
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Wayne: The TEFL Teacher Extraordinaire

Wayne is an absolute gem of a TEFL teacher, and I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from him. His teaching style is nothing short of amazing, characterised by a perfect blend of humor, energy, and friendliness. Each lesson with Wayne was a delightful experience, filled with laughter and enthusiasm. His ability to make learning fun and engaging is unparalleled, as he effortlessly transforms even the most challenging topics into enjoyable learning adventures.

What truly sets Wayne apart is his genuine warmth and dedication to his students' success. From the moment I stepped into his classroom, I felt welcomed and supported. Wayne goes above and beyond to create a nurturing learning environment where every student feels valued and encouraged. His passion for teaching shines through in every interaction, inspiring us to strive for excellence and reach our full potential. Without a doubt, Wayne has had a profound impact on my TEFL journey, and I am immensely grateful for his guidance and mentorship. If you're looking for a TEFL teacher who not only excels in the classroom but also leaves a lasting impression on your learning experience, look no further than Wayne.

Pros
  • having an amazing TEFL teacher
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Molly
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Thank you Wayne!

I am so grateful for this experience. The TEFL certification opens so many doors that I am excited to explore. Although the course is partly focused on grammar which can be slightly dull, the TEFL trainer Wayne made every day so engaging, fun, and relevant. I swear he could be a famous actor because he applies his theater skills to make every day so hilarious and interactive. He also cares so much for every single one of his students and is always available to support and help you. He also helps improve your teaching techniques because he strikes a beautiful balance between critical feedback and a supportive shoulder to lean on. THANK YOU WAYNE!!! We will all miss you dearly.

What was your funniest moment?
I think the funniest moments were Wayne's funny accents he did, especially his American. Also, his acting skills in general just cracked me up so much. He had my laughing every single day.
Pros
  • Having Wayne as my instructor!!!
  • The people I met along the way!!
  • The beautiful sites of Antigua!!
Cons
  • no
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