TEFL Courses in Canada

Whether you're a recent college graduate yearning to explore the world or you're looking to switch careers, a TEFL certification is an affordable and accredited way to start teaching English abroad. A large and expansive country, Canada holds a number of major cities that are hubs for ESL training. Many recruiters, particularly for schools and programs in Asia, will hand-select teachers from Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) programs or events set up by TEFL providers. While it may sound like a competitive market, there is no doubt that the TEFL courses in Canada will thoroughly prepare you for any teaching situation, simple or challenging, while overseas.

While there isn’t much variety in the course material that’s presented in a TEFL classroom, there are plenty of factors, such as price or location, which can affect a teacher's decision about a course. However, whichever TEFL option you choose in Canada, there’s no doubt that you will be well-equipped in the face of stress, language barriers, or general classroom chaos.

120-Hour TEFL Courses:

The 120-hour TEFL course in Canada prepares teachers to tackle any ESL classroom, in the country or abroad. Typically taken over a 4-week period, a 120-hour course is a great option for teachers planning to teach immediately following the course's completion. Through the full-time, 120-hour TEFL certificate, you will be provided with rigorous course materials that will readily prepare you for a career in teaching English worldwide. In addition, some hours are set aside for in-classroom practice; you will perform mock lessons in front of a group of non-native-speaking students. You'll be able to get feedback from your teachers, who are professional ESL educators, experienced in training others in TEFL and teaching overseas.

Part-time TEFL Courses:

For teacher trainees who are currently working or living in Canada, part-time or weekend TEFL certification courses are widely available. These part-time courses cover the same material as the 120-hour training option, though over the span of 12 weeks. You will have the chance to learn the fundamentals of lesson planning, and teaching students of all ages and levels. Once you've completed your TEFL certification in Canada, you'll be ready to apply to jobs at language schools or even teach ESL online!

When and Where to Look for TEFL Courses in Canada:

In Canada, there is a slew of exciting, cosmopolitan cities, where teachers will find no shortage of fun. In Vancouver, Toronto, or Montreal, amongst many others, TEFL students will work hard to learn the basics of classroom management and save some room for exploring on the side.

Additionally, since there are so many locations in Canada where TEFL courses are offered, a teacher can find year-round start dates. Depending on when you want to begin your adventure--which is typically at the start of the fall and spring semesters--plan accordingly. Take your TEFL course in the late spring to early summer months if you are looking to begin teaching English in the fall. Conversely, if you wish to begin working in the spring, consider taking your TEFL course in October or December to leave time for applications and interviews in Canada. If you really don't want to brave the winter in Canada, you can also take an online TEFL course and stay cozy at home.

Qualifications:

Additionally, since there are so many locations in Canada where TEFL courses are offered, a teacher can find year-round start dates. Depending on when you want to begin your adventure, which is typically at the start of the fall and spring semesters, plan accordingly. Take your TEFL course in the late spring to early summer months if you are looking to begin work in the fall. Reversely, if you wish to begin in the spring, consider taking your course in October or December to leave time for applications and interviews.

With these strict requirements in mind, many teachers who train in Canada do not stay in-country to teach. Many students choose to go abroad, where a TEFL certificate will go a long way. Though, depending on the country, requirements will vary. Some schools may ask that you have experience or a bachelor’s degree; however, it varies case by case. Contact a school or recruiter directly to find out what you need to begin the application process.

Post-TEFL Resources:

If you are accredited to teach in Canada, you have a few options to teach not only English, but other subjects. International schools hire teachers from all backgrounds to teach various subjects for K-12 students. What’s particularly exciting about teaching at an international school is the diversity of the students, parents, and staff - you’ll have a chance to meet people from all over the world! In addition, you can teach through a government-sponsored program; you may teach English to ESL learners in language academies, or be placed at a public school. It is common for beginner teachers to work as a language assistant through these programs, alongside a main English instructor.

If you do not qualify to teach in Canada, don’t fret! There are plenty of opportunities in the international community for ESL teachers. In fact, many big-name recruiters and school franchises hire teachers directly from Canada. Keep your eyes and ears out for recruitment events in big Canadian cities, such as Montreal or Vancouver - if you don’t find the perfect job, it’s a great way to network and meet people who have experience teaching abroad.

Cost of Living:

The cost of living in Canada is quite high, similar to costs in the U.S. and Western Europe. While you won’t save very much, your TEFL course in Canada will likely include housing in its program fees. With this, your expenses while studying will mostly be food, social activities, and transportation. Try to buy groceries and save some funds by eating in!