Adam Fallows is a CELTA tutor at IH Newcastle in the UK
How long were you an EFL teacher, and how long have you been a teacher trainer?
I’ve been teaching EFL for 9 years and have been teacher training for 2 years.
Did you have a different career before EFL?
Not a career as such.
What are your hopes/aspirations for your trainees?
That they find a career in English Language Teaching an inspiring and varied experience and that it unlocks whatever potential they desire it to.
When you were an EFL teacher what did you like most, and how do you bring that into the classroom for your trainees?
There are two aspects of English Language Teaching I particularly enjoy. Firstly, the language itself. I’m genuinely interested in the syntax, phonology and pragmatics of the language and hope to instil at least a little of that enthusiasm into the trainees. Secondly, the camaraderie that can be fostered within a class sets EFL apart from many other careers and I believe it’s important for a trainer to be approachable, collaborative and understanding.
What advice would you give your trainees for successfully completing the course?
Be ready to devote the time and effort needed.
What advice would you give your trainees for an interesting and rewarding career?
Take chances, explore, pioneer.
