I turned to SEE TEFL because I wanted a good quality certification and, having never been in classroom before (at least not on the other side of the desk), I wanted a course that would give me rounding in how to function as a teacher. Certainly I got both from SEE. [And telling tales outside of school, I have run into people getting a similar training for a lot more money.]
The course includes lectures in grammar (that feel friendly than that phrase implies) and a training in a standard teaching method. This was followed in the second week by our practicing those skills ourselves in mock classes in front of Thai members of SEE staff. It is intensive going from being taught to teach to teaching within a fortnight - and its not for the faint-hearted - but it made as comfortable experience as possible.
I've rated ten-out-of-ten in the section of continuing staff support for their graduates but really there isn't a rating high enough. During my training weeks I continually saw those who'd previously been trained there drifting through either asking for classroom advice, immigration support, or just to use the facilities. Since taking up a teaching post I've written to them checking a query on grammar I had, and have left myself entirely in their hands when it comes to letting me know what to do on the VISA front.
I came away feeling entirely satisfied with the training and with the town/school I've been sent to.
Because this is an internship the length can be looked at as either six months (including the internship and the deadline date for the accompanying essay) but I've selected the program length as two-weeks as that is the duration of the formal training.
What would you improve about this program?
The internship is half the length of the standard four-week course - which itself is intensive (so I'm told and so I can imagine) - I opted for this as it led directly into a job (and a job at a school that would keep me on after the internship as I imagine most would) but there is no getting away from it is tough. Also I could understand someone finishing a two week course and worrying about not being fit to function in a classroom. These concerns will likely melt away after a few weeks at it.
Especially if you have been out of education/formal training for a while, do choose your course appropriately. With confidence at semi-public speaking and a history of responding well to information from lectures (and some application), there is no course for concern. I could understand why someone would feel the need for a longer period of preparation for the classroom. Though a four-week course would entail being in front of kids within that period so there's no putting it off.
Best of luck to all !!
