Simon Connolly is a CELTA tutor at IH Galway in Ireland
How long were you an EFL teacher, and how long have you been a teacher trainer?
I am a teacher trainer but I also still teach - I have been teaching English since 1999 (20 years). I became a teacher trainer in 2012.
Did you have a different career before EFL?
I worked in a bank for one year before deciding to travel and teach English.
What are your hopes/aspirations for your trainees?
I hope that my trainees are able to use the skills and techniques from the course to help them in whatever context they choose to teach in and that they have confidence in their own style.
When you were an EFL teacher what did you like most, and how do you bring that into the classroom for your trainees?
What I most enjoy about being in a classroom is the interaction between learners and finding out about other people’s opinions, experiences and lives. I think communication is also a huge part of doing a CELTA. It’s important for trainers and trainees to listen to other perspectives. It is an intensive four weeks and the support from colleagues and a spirit of collaboration makes all the difference.
What advice would you give your trainees for successfully completing the course?
Keep experimenting with and developing the techniques you have been practising. Try to adapt them to the context you are in and be flexible in your approach. Always try and put yourself in your students’ shoes.
What advice would you give your trainees for an interesting and rewarding career?
Keep challenging yourself. Try new things, speak to other teachers and find out what they are doing. Read blogs, write blogs and listen to your students.