CELTA – Teacher Training Course
What Is a CELTA Course?
If you are thinking about becoming an English language teacher, a CELTA course is an excellent place to start. Awarded by Cambridge University Press & Assessment, CELTA is one of the most respected teaching qualifications worldwide. According to research from Cambridge, around 75% of advertised English teaching positions ask for a CELTA qualification.
The course is highly practical, giving trainees useful classroom methods and hands-on teaching experience with real learners, either online or in person. This means you gain confidence in genuine teaching environments while learning from experienced trainers.
Whether you are new to teaching or already have experience and want a qualification recognised internationally, CELTA is a strong step forward for your career.
What to Expect on a Full-Time Course
A full-time CELTA course follows a structured weekday routine that combines input sessions, lesson preparation, teaching practice, and feedback. While exact schedules may vary slightly, the overall structure remains consistent throughout the course.
Teaching Practice and Preparation
Input Sessions
These sessions typically take place in the early afternoon. Tutors introduce key areas such as teaching approaches, language awareness, lesson planning, and classroom management. The focus is strongly practical, helping you apply theoretical concepts directly to real teaching situations.
Supported Lesson Planning
Later in the day, you will usually take part in guided lesson planning, often scheduled before your teaching day. During these sessions, tutors work closely with your group to refine lesson aims, choose appropriate materials, organise lesson stages, and anticipate potential learner challenges. This ensures you are well prepared for teaching.
Teaching Practice
Teaching practice is a central part of the course and usually takes place in the afternoon. Sessions last around two hours, with trainees teaching in turn. Each trainee typically delivers a 40 to 45-minute lesson, and you can expect to teach two to three times per week with real English language learners.
Evaluation and Independent Learning
Feedback
After each teaching session, you will receive detailed feedback from your tutor. These sessions review your lesson in depth, including learner engagement, lesson effectiveness, and how your teaching aligns with CELTA assessment criteria. This process is key to your development throughout the course.
Independent Study
In addition to scheduled sessions, a significant amount of time is dedicated to self-study. This includes lesson preparation, reading, and completing written assignments. On a full-time course, trainees usually submit one assignment per week, completing all four CELTA assignments by the end. Many participants spend several hours in the evening preparing for upcoming lessons.
OVERVIEW
WHO IS IT FOR?
COURSE OBJECTIVES
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Course Format
Full-time, face-to-face programme delivered over 4 weeks
Schedule
Classes run Monday to Friday
- July & August timetable: 1:30 pm – 8:45 pm
- November timetable: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Course Dates
- 13 July – 7 August 2026
- 10 August – 4 September 2026
- 16 November – 11 December 2026
Fees
€1795
Early bird rate: €1695*
*Early bird pricing is available for candidates who complete full payment at least 21 days before the course start date.
CELTA Teacher Training is designed for a wide variety of candidates who want to enter or progress in the field of English language teaching. It is suitable for those with little or no teaching experience, as well as for individuals already working in education who wish to gain an internationally recognised qualification.
Participants often include recent graduates, professionals changing careers, and current teachers aiming to expand their opportunities abroad or online. The course is also an excellent option for those planning to travel or relocate internationally.
What all trainees share is a motivation to learn, a commitment to improving their teaching skills, and an interest in working in a global environment.
The main goal of CELTA Teacher Training in Cork is to equip trainees with the essential skills and confidence required to teach English effectively. The course focuses on practical teaching techniques supported by a solid understanding of language and methodology.
Throughout the programme, trainees learn how to plan and deliver effective lessons, manage classrooms, and respond to the needs of learners. They also develop the ability to analyse language and select appropriate teaching materials.
By the end of the course, participants are fully prepared to begin teaching in a range of international settings or online platforms, meeting the standards set by Cambridge.
What is CELTA and who awards it?
CELTA is the Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. It is awarded by Cambridge University Press & Assessment, one of the world’s most established assessment bodies. All CELTA centres operate under Cambridge approval and quality assurance. Every course we run is inspected by Cambridge.
How long is the CELTA certificate valid?
CELTA is a lifetime qualification. It does not expire and does not require renewal. Once awarded, it remains valid for teaching English worldwide.
Is CELTA recognised internationally?
Yes. CELTA is widely recognised by English-language schools, universities, and education providers around the world. It is often listed as a minimum or preferred qualification for entry-level English language teaching roles.
Can I work in Ireland after completing CELTA?
CELTA qualifies you to teach English in language schools in Ireland. There are over 70 language schools around Ireland, and there are also language classes for migrant communities operated by ETBs and other bodies where CELTA is recognised too.
Can I work abroad with a CELTA?
Yes. CELTA is accepted in many countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. It is the key to finding work in a large range of settings.
Does CELTA qualify me to teach adults only?
No. While many CELTA graduates work with adults, the qualification covers teaching adult, adolescent, and younger learners. All of your teaching practice during the course is with adult learners, but after the course, many people go on teach younger learners.
In partnership with

ADDRESS
Cork English College
Saint Patrick’s Bridge,
Cork, Ireland
T23 D863
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