Paula de Nagy is a CELTA tutor at IH Lisbon in Portugal
How long were you an EFL teacher, and how long have you been a teacher trainer?
I started teaching in 1983 and have been a teacher trainer on CELTA courses since 1992.
Did you have a different career before EFL?
No, I have always worked in English Language Teaching.
What are your hopes/aspirations for your trainees?
I would like trainees to get a good foundation in what English Language Teaching consists of. Ideally, I would like them to be aware of the many possibilities within the profession and to help them find something that works for them.
When you were an EFL teacher what did you like most, and how do you bring that into the classroom for your trainees?
The best things about being an EFL teacher, for me, are the variety and learners’ generosity. No two days are the same because each day involves working with a variety of different people who present us with different challenges. I like my trainees to notice their learners and to use this information to help them make informed teaching decisions.
What advice would you give your trainees for successfully completing the course?
Prepare thoroughly, bond with your peers, keep an open mind and be aware that this is only a first step. You don’t have to get everything right immediately. Lastly, trust yourself, your peers and tutors and have a good laugh at least once a day.
What advice would you give your trainees for an interesting and rewarding career?
Look for jobs where teacher development is offered (seminars; observation; additional courses) and keep learning.