Have you heard that saying: “Those who can’t do, teach”?
Well, that’s totally bonkers! And whoever came up with that phrase had obviously never met a teacher!
Far from being “those who can’t”, teachers are some of the most capable people in the world, with a vast array of skills and knowledge at their disposal, and a lot of responsibility on their shoulders. Think about it – if we didn’t have teachers, we wouldn’t have doctors, nurses, lawyers, scientists, writers, professors… because every single one of those skilled professionals started their journey with a teacher. Teaching is the most important profession in the world.
So, should you become a TEFL teacher? Quick answer – YES! And here’s why…
Teachers make a difference
Here at i-to-i, we believe that teachers matter immensely.
We salute the early years teachers, our all-important first formal teachers. We are in awe of the way they enable infants to make marks, understand sounds, play nicely and become independent – providing the critical foundations for effective writing, talking, counting and relationship-building.
Furthermore, we have huge respect for primary school teachers, who equip children with the building blocks that they need to progress. Primary school teachers teach skills in maths, reading, writing, science, music and art – and they help children learn how to interact and what to value.
We also applaud secondary school teachers who have the incredibly tough job of motivating teenagers as they battle through their hormones. Secondary school teachers are a student’s passport to those all-important school-leaver exams that will shape their future.
And finally we commend those that choose to teach adults. Although their pupils might be more motivated and engaged, the stakes are often much higher, sometimes with jobs or visas on the line!
TEFL teachers transform lives
So what about TEFL teachers? We bet you won’t be surprised to hear that we think they’re immensely important too.
TEFL teachers work with students of all ages – from pre-schoolers experimenting with words, through school children mastering language for travel and exams, to adults learning English for pleasure or for business.
If you’re teaching English as a foreign language, you’re not simply passing on English language skills. You’re an ambassador for your country and you’re opening doors of opportunity to all the students that you teach. You are transforming lives and expanding your own.
Teachers inspire
Good teachers motivate their students and enable them to achieve their dreams. So, if you’re thinking about becoming a teacher, don’t just do it for the long holidays, the child-friendly hours, or the potential career progression. Teach because you want to inspire tomorrow’s world leaders, because you are passionate about developing the self-confidence of the shyest student, and because you believe in the potential of every single person. Teach because it matters, because it truly is the most important profession in the world.
Ready to get started, but need to get TEFL qualified first? Check out all of our course options here!
Want to speak to one of our friendly TEFL experts before you decide on a course? No worries! Just arrange for a free call back and they will be able to answer all of your questions!
Already TEFL qualified and want to look for your perfect TEFL job? Head to the LoveTEFL jobs board, where all the latest TEFL vacancies (both online and abroad) are advertised.