Hybrid Course in Antigua, Guatemala

I did a four week "hybrid" course divided into two parts: the first two weeks I did online from home in Bulgaria before coming to Antigua for the last two weeks, the second of which was dedicated entirely to practical teaching. This worked particularly well for me, since I wasn't able to commit to the full four weeks of the regular course, so being able to do the theoretical half from home was really convenient.

I remember reading reviews of the course prior to signing up. The general consensus seemed to be: challenging but ultimately rewarding. I couldn't agree more with this. The course is a real test of character, and getting to the end of it (as 99% of people do) is an achievement to be proud of. I had a very positive mindset from the beginning, but even so I was tested on numerous occasions, especially during practical teaching week. This is the part of the course which, in my opinion, is most invaluable: taking responsibility for a class' learning for an entire week, teaching one one-hour lesson a day for five days, is as daunting as it sounds, but it is also the time when the learning curve as an aspiring teacher is the steepest. It is an experience which a purely online TEFL course simply cannot replace.

I cannot sing the praises of the Máximo team enough. My instructor, Karen, was an incredibly enthusiastic and highly dedicated teacher and guide throughout. The amount of individual attention I received from her both in preparing for and reflecting on my practical teaching experience was amazing. Karen struck a balance by being professional whilst also showing great care and understanding, as well as an ability to adapt to our needs. I am very grateful to her, and indeed all the staff at Máximo, for their support and smiles throughout the course.