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Graduate case studies

Graduate case studies
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Helen - 
EFL Teacher

Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

About the job

Main responsibilities

Teaching Business English, General English, Exam Preparation and Special skills in English.
Teaching students aged 7 and above.
Teaching students of all levels, beginner to proficiency.
Course development.
Materials evaluation.
Running and attending training workshops.
Marking and feedback.
Peer observation.

Typical day

Lesson planning and preparation, admin tasks, teaching, liaising with students and colleagues, professional development (webinars, training programmes etc.), materials collection & analysis

What do I enjoy about my job?

Interacting with people, and the challenge of making each lesson as diverse and interesting as possible.

Challenging aspects

Time management, long days and the level of energy that you need to put into each class.

Why did this area of work appeal to me?

It is sociable, challenging, and never boring.

Skills/qualifications I use in my job?

English language, English literature, extensive knowledge of grammar and an idea of how to explain it.

Training I receive as part of my job

Frequent observation sessions, in-service training and admin meetings


Career information

Brief history since leaving University

University of Cambridge CELTA course - Pass B
(Uni of Sheffield ELTC)

Where do I see myself in the future?

Possible DoS of a school or potentially opening my own school in the distant future.

Before that, taking the DELTA and becoming a more Senior Teacher with greater levels of experience and expertise. Trying out new teaching methodologies and giving more seminars/workshops, possible at international events.

Publishing papers and articles.


Advice to students

My piece of advice to students

Do the CELTA course: it;s hard work, but it's well worth it. Look around for opportunities abroad and don't be afraid to take a risk.



Send Helen a question about their career.


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Last updated: 20 Mar 2017