Program Reviews

I am leaving a review for International TEFL Academy's Online 11-Week Program. I just finished the 11 weeks and found this program to be well-laid out with a topic for each week. I was very hesitant to sign up because I am 47 years old and haven't been to school for years. I had a very patient, helpful Admissions Advisor Andrew that helped answer my questions and walk me through the process. The Student Affairs Team is also great and was always helpful, and professional when answering my questions. I would recommend this organization as I felt they have a quality reputation and program, which to me is more important than how cheap I could get a certificate somewhere else. I also want to add that my teacher, Ms. Barbara Carkhuff was very knowledgeable and caring. I hope my review encourages someone who is not sure to take the leap and know that ITA is there to help you.

I highly recommend this program, and my experience with International TEFL Academy (ITA) has been very positive. As someone changing careers later in life, I was initially nervous about returning to school and entering a completely new field. However, the course was well organized, practical, and supportive from the beginning.

One of the highlights of the program was the quality of instruction. My instructor, Professor Gorham, was extremely knowledgeable and provided thoughtful, detailed feedback on every assignment. Her enthusiasm for teaching was contagious, and she consistently encouraged us to do our best while reminding us that effective teaching requires preparation, flexibility, reflection, and a willingness to adapt. She helped me realize that I do not have to be a perfect teacher on day one. Instead, I need to be prepared, open to learning, and willing to seek guidance from colleagues and mentors as I continue to grow.

The coursework covered a wide range of topics, including lesson planning, classroom management, language skills, cultural awareness, and teaching methodologies. I especially appreciated the practical nature of the assignments because they helped me think about real classroom situations rather than just theory. By the end of the course, I felt much more confident in my ability to teach English in a variety of settings, including in-person classes, online instruction, hybrid learning environments, and private tutoring.

I also valued the sense of community within the program. It was reassuring to connect with other future teachers who were at different stages of their own journeys. The experience reinforced the idea that teaching is a profession in which we continue learning from both our peers and our students.

Although I did not purchase the textbook separately, I received access to the online version through a program incentive. I am grateful to have it as a resource and plan to refer back to it often as I begin teaching. The materials contain practical strategies and information that I know will continue to be useful.

This program gave me the knowledge, confidence, and foundation I was looking for as I prepare for a new chapter in my life. For anyone considering a career change, teaching abroad, online teaching, or private tutoring, I would strongly recommend ITA. It has shown me that it is never too late to learn something new, pursue a different path, and begin a new adventure.

My experience with Further Afield, Gotoco and the TEFL program in Thailand was one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences I have ever had.

The program provided the perfect balance of teaching, cultural immersion and personal development. I thoroughly enjoyed working with the students and helping them develop their English language skills. One of the most rewarding aspects was seeing their confidence grow throughout the program and watching them become more willing to participate in activities and conversations.

The support provided throughout the programme was excellent. From the pre-departure information through to the in-country experience, I always felt well informed and supported. A special thank you must go to Morgan and Emma, whose patience, dedication, knowledge and unwavering support helped make the experience such a success. Their passion for Thailand and genuine care for the participants created a welcoming and enjoyable environment for everyone.

The cultural aspect of the program was equally impressive. I particularly enjoyed visiting the beautiful temples and learning more about Thailand's history, traditions and customs. Experiencing the local culture first-hand gave me a much deeper appreciation of the country and its people.

Professionally, the experience helped me develop valuable skills in communication, leadership, teamwork, adaptability and problem-solving. Working with students and collaborating with volunteers from different backgrounds challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone and strengthened my confidence in a completely new environment.

I would highly recommend this programme to anyone looking for a meaningful opportunity to travel, gain practical experience, experience a new culture and grow both personally and professionally. I have made wonderful memories, developed new friendships, and returned home with a greater sense of confidence and achievement.

If I had the opportunity to do it all over again, I would not hesitate to take part.

ITA is the best program for learning to teach English as a foreign language! From the start they have helped me and encouraged me, and when I had a conflict with the start of my class, they seamlessly moved me to a class that began later in the year--for free! The textbooks are well-written and interesting, the teachers incredibly supportive, and my fellow students are all as excited as I am to begin this journey! I highly recommend this program to anyone who loves to travel and who loves to teach!

The program is robust and thorough. It was also flexible enough so that I could take courses while working full-time. My instructor was well qualified, having both the education and experience to teach not only TEFL students, but English language learners anywhere. When needed, my instructor provided clear feedback so that I was able to resubmit assignments. I especially appreciate the extensions that were given to me, to complete the practicum portion of the certificate. Additionally, the staff at Student Affairs are awesome!

My experience with ITA was personalized, with support provided for my unique combination of timezone difference and university obligations. They helped me navigate my course work perfectly and expected a fair and balanced amount of legwork in return when it came time to do my practicum hours. They have provided extensions when circumstances beyond my control extended my timeline, and even offered to write reference letters for my graduate application and JET application. This course will give you a good base to build on when it comes to planning and executing classes, and helps you learn how to engage with students. In a program like JET, not all of these may be necessary but it will help you understand how the primary English teacher is managing their class. The extra hours make it a competitive certificate and the lifelong job search assistance is, I'm sure, going to be invaluable to me in the future.

I’m currently halfway through my first course with the International TEFL Academy (ITA), and honestly, I’m blown away by how much I’ve learned so far. The program is well-organized, and the people behind it - whether it’s instructors, advisors, tech support, or lecturers - are incredibly helpful and responsive. The lessons aren’t just theory; they’re practical and really make you think about what teaching will look like in real-world classrooms.

Like any post-secondary program, what you get out of it depends on what you put in. If you’re willing to do the work and practice, ITA gives you everything you need to succeed. For me, one of the biggest benefits has been how the course helps you figure out your own teaching goals. I already have a much clearer idea of where I’d like to teach and which student demographics I want to focus on - and that’s just halfway through.

Another thing that really stands out is the support ITA offers beyond the classroom. They provide detailed job placement guidance, country-specific hiring info, and resources that make the process of finding work abroad so much less intimidating. Plus, their alumni network is amazing - people from all over the world share advice, experiences, and job leads. It feels like you’re joining a global community, not just getting a certificate.

My first Teaching English as a Foreign Language was a great introduction to the quality of the courses and expectations for learning online. I am eager to continue learning through other TEFL courses and to pursue my learning/education adventures for my future career goals, enabling me to travel while making an impact as a teacher. My instructor was knowledgeable, and there was still a sense of community among the students even though the course is entirely online. I'm glad I chose TEFL for my certification experience! 10/10 highly recommend.

I received my certification during the pandemic and it was a great experience. I’ve enjoyed teaching adults to improve their language skills and find the work very rewarding. The class structure of the program and the resources provided, plus the additional courses you can take, were all very helpful. The platform was intuitive and easy to navigate. The curriculum overall provided a good base for being able to step into teaching with confidence. I refer back to the materials and resources often when I’m developing lesson plans.

My experience with ITA has been nothing short of wonderful. From the very beginning, I felt supported, encouraged, and genuinely cared for. The team doesn’t just guide you through the TEFL process they walk beside you, celebrate your progress, and help you grow with confidence.

Every module is thoughtfully designed, practical, and deeply relevant to real classrooms. What stood out most to me was how approachable and compassionate the instructors and staff are. They understand the nerves, the excitement, and the dreams that come with becoming an educator, and they meet you exactly where you are.

The practicum experience was especially meaningful. It gave me the space to apply what I’d learned, discover my teaching voice, and build real connections with learners. ITA made me feel capable, prepared, and inspired to step into the world as a confident ESL teacher.

If you’re looking for a TEFL program that values you as a person not just a student ITA is a wonderfull place to begin your journey. I’m truly grateful for the warmth, guidance, and community they’ve given me.