English as a second language teacher : Training

The National Association for the Teaching of English and Other Community Languages to Adults (NATECLA)  and the National Association for Language Development in the Curriculum (NALDIC)  represent those involved in teaching English as a second or additional language (ESOL/EAL). They produce regular newsletters and journals, offer conferences and training, and provide information about a range of areas, including teaching materials.

For those progressing in further education (FE), completion of a relevant advanced diploma and/or MA is important.

Traditionally, many ESOL professionals opted to follow a programme of applied linguistics. Recently, however, there has been a growth in courses offering more classroom-based training. In-service training, which can vary from one-day events to full post-qualification and postgraduate programmes, is important. This may be provided by local education authorities or by colleges and universities.

Short courses of two weeks are also run by Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO)  for their own volunteers.