What is TEFL?

OWLSTEFL is the general term for the Teaching of English as a Foreign Language. It is a global industry which provides employment opportunities world-wide.With so much confusing information available about TEFL teaching, OWLS provides a simple guide to the industry and how to earn a living from it.

We offer a unique course introducing you to the world of TEFL

A weekend long series of seminars providing pertinent information about TEFL in order to equip you to work in this industry. It is a cost effective guide to the world of TEFL.We focus on:

  • the availability of jobs locally and world-wide.
  • how to provide employers with the information they need.
  • an introduction to the teaching methods used at TEFL schools.
  • the basic skills you need to teach foreign students.
  • the books and materials employers will expect you to be familiar with.
  • the chance to practise your teaching techniques

This is a certificate course which would enable you to teach TEFL abroad. Please note that certain schools world-wide require specific combinations of Degrees, Diplomas and certificates. Some will only accept holders of certain passports and visas. We will provide a guide to this information.This is a short course which allows you to enter the TEFL world and equips you with skills to teach and seek employment. You do not have to be a qualified teacher to enrol for this TEFL course !!!

What are the advantages?

  • It equips you with the necessary skills to find work abroad and in South Africa.
  • This certificate course is a pre-requisite for working in the industry.
  • The price is highly competitive.
  • Short intensive course.
  • Springboard for further qualifications.
  • Highly qualified and experienced trainers.
  • Allows you to decide if TEFL suits you before embarking on expensive courses.
  • Supervised teaching practice.
  • Small groups.

About the course

OWLS offers a unique one weekend intensive TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) course, which will equip you with the necessary skills to Teach English as a Foreign Language overseas. We also help you to develop your awareness of language and the needs of the learner. Highly qualified and experienced trainers will make your learning fun and easy.

Duration of course: 1 weekend
Days: Saturday & Sunday
Times: Saturday: 09h00 - 17h00 Sunday: 09h00 - 17h00
Price: R1400, including deposit and all materials

Course Content includes:

  • Introduction to the world of TEFL
  • Where to look for work
  • How to gain experience in the workplace.
  • Testing and placement of students.
  • TOEFL, IELTS and Cambridge exams explained
  • Introduction to Grammatical Structure and Skills Component.
  • The Phonetic Alphabet + Presentation
  • Lesson planning
  • Lesson materials, course books and teaching aids.
  • Teaching Methodologies.
  • Teaching Practical

Basic requirements to enter

  • Minimum age 17 years old
  • Matric certificate
  • No prior teaching experience required
  • Understanding of and competency with the English Language.

Course Dates

TEFL 15 hour Course Dates for 2009

17/18 January 2009
7/8 February 2009
7/8 March 2009
4/5 April 2009
2/3 May 2009
6/7 June 2009

TEFL 40 hour Course Dates for 2009

n/a January 2009
23-28 February 2009
16-21 March 2009
20-25 April 2009
18-23 May 2009
22-27 June 2009

How do I register?

To register for the course you will have to pay a non-refundable deposit of R400 to OWLS at:

2nd Floor
50-On-Long
Hout Street
Cape Town
8001

phone: (021) 423 1833
fax: (021) 426 0166

Registration Form

You may download the registration form here. Once completed, please fax it to us at (021) 426 0166.

Frequently asked Questions about TEFL

1) Is your TEFL certificate internationally recognized?

No TEFL certificate is internationally recognised in all foreign countries. However, most English Foreign Language Schools require a TEFL certificate. One World Language School’s (OWLS) TEFL certificate is not internationally recognised but suitable in most countries in order to be considered for work.

2) What is the difference between CELTA and TEFL?

CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching for Adults) is a one-month programme administered by the University of Cambridge Learning Examinations Syndicate. As such, it has a fairly high degree of credibility abroad, particularly in the United Kingdom. It is offered here in Cape Town at a cost in Rand terms of between R7000 and R8000.

3) Can I teach abroad using your certificate?

TEFL (Teaching of English as a Foreign Language) is a general certificate, which is widely recognised abroad. However, a TEFL certificate is not recognised by any one specific academic body. It is recognised by many schools abroad. We have had many candidates using our certificate successfully abroad and our certificate will allow you to teach abroad, provided you meet any other criteria that may be set out by schools in foreign countries. The TEFL certificate is a pre-requisite for teaching at most overseas schools.

4) What is the difference between your and other TEFL courses?

OWLS’ course focuses on the job market, both locally & abroad. In addition, the OWLS’ course provides a basic overview of required methods of teaching English to foreigners whereas other courses tend to offer more teaching practice.

5) Where are your courses held?

Courses are held in Cape Town- 2nd Floor,50-on-Long,50 Long Street,Cape Town

6) Is there a test at the end

No, there is no test at the end of the course but use continuous assessment to gauge progress.

7) Can I observe classes at your school?

Classes may not be observed at OWLS, as the group dynamics between our permanent teachers & their students is all important to the daily running of One World Language School. However, all course delegates are welcome to submit C.V.’s at the end of the course for possible employment at OWLS.

8) Can I teach in Cape Town?

There are 17 plus schools in the greater Cape Town area. With the large number of students arriving in Cape Town to study, the chances of finding work locally are high.

9) Do you get a certificate at the end of the course?

A TEFL certificate is issued on completion of the course.

10) How many candidates on the course?

The number of candidates ranges from 10 –25 delegates per course. Numbers are kept low to ensure quality tuition.

11) Do you assist with job placements?

OWLS’ is not a placement agency, however, we do show delegates where & how to contact schools abroad via official TEFL websites.

12) How can I pay?

Payment can only be made by cash or bank guarantee cheques only on the first day of the course.

13) When do I pay?

A non-refundable deposit of R400 is required to secure the booking. This deposit may be transferred into our bank account but proof of payment must be sent via fax or e-mail to OWLS before booking is confirmed. The outstanding balance is payable by or on the first day of the course.

14) Who do I contact for more information?

For more information about the course please contact Deborah Kleynhans 021 423 1833 or agents@owls.co.za