Diploma of TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)

The Diploma of TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) at the Australian National Institute of Business & Technology is a practical qualification for people who want to teach English to adults and children whose first language isn't English. Over 1.5 years, you'll study how language works, grammar, pronunciation, vocabulary, and how people learn a second language. You'll also learn how to plan lessons, manage a classroom, and assess students' progress. The course covers teaching reading, writing, speaking and listening, and looks at how to use resources and technology in the classroom. You'll also explore the cultural and social factors that affect language learning.

This diploma is a vocational qualification, so it's built around doing, not just reading. You'll spend time in classrooms or online, practising teaching techniques with your classmates. Some units may include a work placement or practical teaching component, where you work with real English language learners under supervision. Assessment is usually a mix of assignments, lesson plans, presentations and observed teaching practice. The course is delivered in semesters or trimesters, and you'll need to complete a set number of units to graduate. Each unit has a credit point value, and you'll need to pass all required units to get the diploma. The exact structure and unit list are on the official page, check there for details.

You'll come out with skills you can use straight away: writing lesson plans, explaining grammar clearly, correcting errors gently, and adapting your teaching to different levels and ages. You'll also learn how to find and evaluate teaching materials, and how to work with students from diverse backgrounds. These are the same skills employers look for in language schools, TAFEs, community colleges and online teaching platforms.

This course suits people who enjoy language and want to help others communicate. You might be a school leaver, a career changer, or someone who's already tutoring and wants a formal qualification. It's also useful if you want to teach English overseas. If you're an international student, you'll need to meet English requirements, typically IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, though teaching courses sometimes ask for higher. The Student visa lets you work up to 48 hours per fortnight while you study, and after you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) to work in Australia. Confirm all details, including tuition and entry requirements, on the official CRICOS page.

• English language teacher in private language schools, TAFEs or community colleges
• ESL tutor in primary or secondary schools (as an aide or assistant)
• Online English teacher for platforms based in Australia or overseas
• Teacher in adult migrant English programmes
• Curriculum support officer or resource developer for language programmes
• Education assistant in schools with high numbers of students learning English as an additional language