Program Overview

Introduction to the Cambridge CELTA Program

The Cambridge CELTA is a prestigious teaching qualification recognized by language schools worldwide. It is one of only two TEFL qualifications listed by the British Council as an acceptable teaching qualification that meets their requirements and standards.

Program Overview

The CELTA program is suitable for individuals aged 20 and above, including first-language English speakers and non-first-language speakers who plan to teach English in New Zealand or overseas. It is also ideal for those pursuing a higher-level qualification, such as a master's in TESOL, or for individuals already teaching English without a recognized teaching qualification.

Program Structure

There are two ways to complete the CELTA course:

• Face-to-Face Full-Time: This intensive 4-week course is held at the university campus from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
• Face-to-Face Part-Time: This 10-week course is held at the university campus from Monday 5-8 pm, Tuesday and Thursday 5-9 pm, and four Saturdays 9 am-4 pm.

Program Content

All CELTA courses include:

• At least 120 hours of contact between candidates and course tutors
• Tutorial support and consultation
• Supervised lesson planning
• 6 hours of assessed teaching practice per candidate, supervised by a course tutor
• Feedback on teaching practice
• Peer observation of teaching practice
• 6 hours of directed observation of lessons taught by experienced ELT professionals The CELTA course covers a range of topics, including:
  • Learners and teachers, and the teaching and learning context
  • Language analysis and awareness
  • Language skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing
  • Planning and resources for different teaching contexts
  • Developing teaching skills and professionalism

Assessment

Assessment is ongoing throughout the course, with no final examination. The two types of assessment are:

• Teaching Practice: Candidates teach for a total of 6 hours, working with adult classes at a minimum of two levels of ability.
• Written Assignments: Candidates complete four written assignments (each 750-1,000 words), focusing on:
  • Analysing and responding to adult learner needs
  • Analysing language for teaching purposes
  • Teaching language skills
  • Reflecting on classroom teaching

Grades and Certification

There are four possible grades for the CELTA:

• Pass A
• Pass B
• Pass
• Fail Candidates receive a candidate report at the end of the course, stating their provisional grade. Cambridge English issues the certificate when grades are confirmed, usually within eight weeks of course completion.

Support and Resources

The university provides support throughout the course, including:

• A welcome pack with important information and materials
• An IT workshop to address technical issues
• Individual support from trainers
• A session on finding work in New Zealand and overseas
• Guidance on CV preparation and job interviews

Daily Schedule

The daily schedule for the Face-to-Face Full-Time course is:

• 8:30-9:15 am: Assisted Lesson Planning
• 9:30-11:30 am: Teaching Practice (TP)
• 11:30 am-12:30 pm: Lunch
• 12:30-1:20 pm: Feedback
• 1:30-3:00 pm: Input 1
• 3:15-4:30 pm: Input 2 The daily schedule for the Face-to-Face Part-Time course is:
• Monday: 5:00-6:30 pm (Input 1), 6:45-8:00 pm (Input 2)
• Tuesday and Thursday: 5:00-5:45 pm (Assisted Lesson Preparation), 6:00-8:00 pm (Teaching Practice), 8:15-9:00 pm (Feedback on Teaching Practice)
• Saturday: 9:00 am-12:00 pm (Input 1 and 2), 1:00-4:00 pm (Input 3 and 4)

Entry Requirements

To register for the course, candidates must:

• Have a standard of education equivalent to that required for entry into higher education
• Be 20 years or older
• Have a CEFR level high C1 (Advanced) or above Candidates without formal qualifications at this level may still be accepted if they can demonstrate the potential to complete the course successfully.

Course Dates and Fees

The 2025 course dates are:

• Monday, November 17 - Friday, December 12 (4 weeks full-time)
• Saturday, April 11 - Thursday, June 18 (10 weeks part-time) The 2025 course fee is $3,900. Insurance for international students is required, with fees ranging from $113 to $115 per month.

Graduate Testimonials

Graduates of the CELTA program have praised the course for its comprehensive coverage of teaching skills and its recognition worldwide. They have found the course to be challenging but rewarding, with experienced tutors providing valuable guidance and support. The CELTA qualification has opened doors for graduates to teach in New Zealand and overseas, and they have appreciated the opportunity to gain real-world experience and build their confidence as teachers.