WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Case Study of the Month : Robert Watts

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With some existing teaching experience overseas, Robert decided the time was right to formalise his qualifications. He came back to the UK to complete his UK-TEFL course in March this year, and discovered a new confidence in his teaching ability. Robert returned to Bangkok to take up a teaching position and tells us how much he loves his job!

Why did you choose UK-TEFL?

I chose the UK-TEFL course because it was great value for money and the courses were taught by highly experienced trainers, so I knew that I would be getting a high standard of training.

Have you used your UK-TEFL qualification?

Prior to enrolling on my UK-TEFL course, I spent two years teaching in Bangkok. It was a great experience which I thoroughly enjoyed, despite the fact I only earned a low salary. After this, I decided I wanted to formalise my qualifications, so I returned to the UK to complete a TEFL course.

The course was brilliant, and it not only helped me develop my teaching skills but it also gave me the confidence to aim higher. I returned to Bangkok with my UK-TEFL certificate, and started applying for teaching jobs at international schools. Soon after, I was offered a position teaching Maths at International schools which is where I now work. Ironically, I studied at the owner school in Shropshire, and now I’m back working for them in Bangkok.

What is the best bit about being an EFL teacher?

The thing I enjoy the most is educating young learners, because seeing them grow with knowledge and experience is priceless. That's the real buzz about teaching, because you are educating the future.

Interesting Stories:

I find marking test papers is always a giggle. The words and writing some students produce is either amazingly brilliant or amazingly funny. The spelling errors are the best, as I often see some wonderful interpretations of the spelling of words, some of them deliberate I’m sure!

Tell us your top tips for TEFL teaching:

My advice is to have fun and make sure your students are having fun. Also, it is a good idea to listen to all the advice you are given because there is always room for improvement. And lastly, don’t be afraid to put your own twist on things.

What are your future plans?

I am due to complete my B.Ed very soon, and I’m looking at either teaching in Japan or perhaps returning to the UK. Whichever destination I choose, one thing is for certain, I will be teaching!

Any other comments:

Take the UK-TEFL course. Explore the world!

Congratulations on your new job in Bangkok, Robert!

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