TESOL stands for “Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.” It is a common term used to describe the professional activity of teaching English to non-native speakers.

The Certificate IV in TESOL (Course code: 11245NAT) is a fully accredited and internationally recognised qualification. The purpose of the course is to produce skilled and knowledgeable entry-level TESOL teachers, teaching assistants and tutors. The course will also enable experienced but unqualified people to acquire a formal qualification in TESOL. This course is intended to provide participants with a range of knowledge and skills to perform a variety of functions associated with teaching English to speakers of other languages, and to help them obtain teaching assistant, tutoring or teaching positions.

Participants will develop skills in classroom management, presentation techniques, lesson planning and resource preparation, together with skills and knowledge to assist English as a foreign language (EFL) and English as a second language (ESL) learners to improve their grammar, pronunciation, reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. Participants will also develop an understanding of different methods of testing language ability and will have the skills and knowledge to be able to assist learners to prepare for a range of English language tests. They will also be provided with an overview of cultural issues likely to be encountered with English language learners both in Australia and overseas.

The Certificate IV in TESOL is a self-directed course that can be completed at your own pace. Enrolment is typically 40 weeks in duration, but many learners finish much earlier. There is no set schedule to commencing enrolment, so you can begin the course at any time. We even offer recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers, where applicable.

Yes. The program is delivered via distance learning (online). All unit information is accessible on our online learning platform, as well as the free student handbook. Some assessment tasks will require you to interact with ESL (English as a Second Language) students or peers, for you to demonstrate your skills and knowledge. However, we understand that everyone’s situation is unique, and we strive to be flexible and accommodating to our learners’ needs.

• TESCUL401 –   Develop and apply knowledge of cultural factors affecting TESOL teachers
• TESPRN402  –   Assist learners to improve pronunciation and speech
• TESGRM403 –   Assist learners to learn or improve grammar
• TERES404 –   Source and develop resources to support learning
• TESRED405 –   Assist learners develop reading and writing skills
• TESSPK406 –   Assist learners develop speaking and listening skills
• TESASS407 –   Assess language learning
• TESMTH408 –   Apply a range of TESOL methodologies
• TESTST409 –   Assist learners prepare for English language tests
• TESCAL410 –   Use Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) to assist learners
• TESCHD412 –   Use creative strategies to assist children to learn English
• TAEDEL401 –   Plan, organise and deliver group-based learning

Each unit contains a set of optional activities and two assessments. Assessments may be comprised of short answer questions, research reports, lesson planning, creating and maintaining a portfolio of resources, conducting practice tests, grading student work and more.

Yes. As with all TESOL qualifications, to complete our course, you will also need to demonstrate your acquired skills and knowledge in a practical setting. The practical component of the Certificate IV in TESOL is 6 hours of teaching practice to at least 8 ESL students (simulated students are also accepted). This is usually done in a physical setting, but online classes are also accepted. SHEI can also help you source students if you are having trouble finding participants.

Yes. While it’s optional, we strongly recommend that students consider purchasing “The Practice of English Language Teaching (5th edition)” by Jeremy Harmer. Some units in the course refer to information contained within this book and will make completion of the course content and assessments easier. The book is also an excellent resource in its own right, and can give you further ideas for activities and lesson plans.

It is recommended that applicants either be native English speakers or have a fluent (or near-fluent) command of English. Applicants may be asked to undertake an interview and / or an assessment before enrolment.

• English teaching assistants
• Teaching English to visa holders
• Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in Australia
• Teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) outside Australia
• English tutors
• Volunteer teaching of migrants and refugees

Full-time study: $1350
Option for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): $1350

You can enrol directly with Sydney Higher Education Institute (SHEI).

To enrol with SHEI or find out more information, please email (admin@sydneyinstitute.org)  or call 1300 794 683 and we will arrange for one of our staff to contact you for further assistance.

SHEI is a dynamic Registered Training Organisation (RTO) headquartered in Sydney, Australia. We provide a unique opportunity for participation in a variety of learning programs which aim to address the needs of professionals and students.

We aim to keep learning relevant by incorporating state-of-the-art knowledge with flexible options, as well as the benefit of dedicated trainers and assessors who are there to partner you on your learning experience.