Teach Away

Program Reviews

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Essie
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Comprehensive course

I found this course very comprehensive and convenient to complete - you can access it from any computer or mobile device, so you can study for a lesson wherever you have internet or wireless access. There is a good mix of reading, written activities, video and interactive elements, so the lessons are always engaging, and I genuinely enjoyed working through the different modules. Most modules require you to complete and submit multiple 'reflection journals', so making notes and taking your time with each lesson is recommended. I took specialisations in Teaching Business English and Teaching English to Young Learners - there are various topics to choose from, and I think this is an area in which they can expand the course even further. I completed the 120-hour course in 2-3 months, and found the sections on grammar particularly useful.

In terms of support, I received prompt replies from course staff whenever I had a query, and all communications have been friendly and helpful. There is quite a wait until you receive your certificate, but they offer an free electronic copy whilst you await its arrival. No information yet about a work placement now that I've completed the course - this is the only stall in communication so far.

What would you improve about this program?
More clear direction for students who have completed the course and which to look at placement options. There were a couple of glitches when viewing lessons on a Windows tablet, so perhaps just checking for compatibility across different browsers could prevent any future issues.
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Ahmad
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My experience with UoToronto tefl Online

I have taken this course between June and August 2013 and then two modules which were Teaching English for Young Learners and Business English.
In a modern environment and completely on-line delivery this course taught me everything I need to have the confidence to apply for a TEFL teaching job. The course has a lot of video and audio that add more to the information and advice from the experts. I think that this course fully covers the theoretical and practical aspects that you might need to know to be a successful teacher. I highly recommend this class especially that it is backed by Teach Away's support for you to find your dream teaching job.

Read my full story
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francesca
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Fantastic Course!

U of T TEFL Online was a great investment, which has enhanced my knowledge of teaching and the English language.

I took the 120 hour course and specialized in Teaching English to Korean speakers and Teaching English to Young Learners. They offer other practical specializations that will help you in your placement field.

TEFL's partnership with Teach Away allowed me the opportunity to work with a Placement Coordinator. I was supported throughout my application process.

What would you improve about this program?
When I enrolled there weren't as many specializations being offered and I could only take 2. But I just checked and they offer more plus a 150 hour option!
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Sarah
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great course!

I enrolled in the University of Toronto's TEFL Online course as I was looking for an online TEFL certificate that would assist me with teaching abroad. I found the course to be very practical, with lots of useful information and suggestions that I will be able to apply when working with ESL learners. It was great to be able to work through the course at my own pace and I have kept copies of the additional hand-outs that are provided throughout the units.

Overall, I found this course to be a great addition to my teaching degree and I look forward to using my new skills when I teach abroad in South America later this year!

What would you improve about this program?
There were a few technical errors that I believe have since been fixed.
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Kathleen
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Highly recommended

I highly recommend this course for those seeking to complete a TEFL certification. It is a great addition to your resume, in particularly for overseas teaching positions.

The course was very informative and well-designed. I particularly liked the 'practical' ideas and advice that I believe would be useful to new and also more experienced teachers.

Overall, I enjoyed completing the University of Toronto TEFL course.

What would you improve about this program?
Adding more specific units depending on what type of position you are looking for e.g. working with early years students, adults.
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Joanne
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Not without problems

Well, I can't say my teaching started off on the right foot here in Dubai. This secondary school is a little unorganized and lacking of some key resources - um, paper anyone? But at least my coordinator at Teach Away informed me of what I could expect, so I prepared some materials to bring along which have helped me get through this rough spot without much issue. I guess that's just part of teaching internationally - rolling with the punches that is.

Other than the unorganized manner of the school and staff, they are trying to improve. And my Teach Away coordinator has been there to support me any time I had a query, or even a breakdown *sob*

But I have now learned to love my post, which has been a great achievement with thanks to Teach Away.

What would you improve about this program?
Oops, I guess I included my critical feedback above.
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Jordan
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great program and agency

The program in South Korea offers me everything I need to have the experience of a lifetime and Teach Away was a huge help getting me here. They were always reachable to answer my questions and help with my visa documents. I can't thank them enough for helping me find this amazing opportunity!

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Teacher
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Government program for teacher mentoring - great lifestyle and experience

This program is a government program that is a little bit disorganized. As time has gone on, things have gotten better with better procedures. There was great flexibility in my job and I am training groups of teachers in rural areas, which is a great opportunity, instead of just teaching ESL.

Teach Away were honest from the beginning with the job description and the conditions. They provided advice and information on all aspects of this program and answered all of my questions. When I wanted to leave after the first month, my Teach Away person listened and worked with me to fix the issues.

What would you improve about this program?
The resources that are available and the communication between Malaysia program officials and us, the foreign teacher mentors.
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Japanist45
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Korea Rocks!

My co-teacher recommended I share my experiences in Korea with others, so I figure here's a good place to start.

I came to Korea a couple of years ago through Teach Away. They helped me through the entire process and gave me a LOT of useful info. After I got off the plane, I was quickly greeted by EPIK and Teach Away reps. So, even though I didn't speak any of the language, I felt I was being taken care of right from the start.

This really is a good program - teaching English in public schools here. If you look at it just like a job, you likely won't enjoy it. You have to look at it as a job and a learning experience. There's so much to take in here, from the food to the culture, everything here a twist to what you may expect in the US, but in a good way.

Overall, if you don't do this, you're missing out. Try a year here, and you'll see what I mean.

Cheers!

What would you improve about this program?
Language barrier! Okay, I know I had some support from the start, but it will be up to you to try to communicate with locals. So, maybe a bit more resources to learn Korean would help future teachers.
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Japanist45
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Not what I expected

Okay, to preface, I must admit that I'm a bit of a Japanophile. I've been into manga and anime since junior high. After graduating from college, I knew I wanted to teach English in Japan - I just didn't know how to go about it.

I applied all around and really think that Teach Away offered me the most relevant info, in a prompt and friendly way.

Admittedly, I was expecting just a quick sales type of service, but they really took the time to explain the ins-and-outs of what I could expect teaching here in Japan. I got some tips on how to teach here in public schools and get along with the staff and community. Now, I'm living my dream here. Don't know if I'll go back home, haha.

What would you improve about this program?
It's hard to be a vegetarian in the countryside of Japan. The only thing I can suggest is that more resources be provided on how to live in Japan with special dietary needs.