CELTA - Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
With a University of Cambridge Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA) qualification you can teach English as an additional language to adults anywhere in the world.
During our CELTA course you'll develop an understanding of the key principles and practices of effective English language teaching, and the motivations and roles of both teacher and learner. For more information about CELTA go to http://www.cambridgeenglish.org/exams-and-qualifications/celta.
There are two different ways of completing the CELTA programme at Ara:
Face to Face Part Time
This course takes just 11 weeks part time and comprises 12-15 hours face-to-face study and a minimum of 10 hours independent study each week. It is held on Saturdays (9.00am - 4.30pm) and Tuesday and Thursday evenings (5.30-9.00pm).
CELTA online (blended option)
This option combines online self-directed study with face-to-face teaching practice and observations, over 15 weeks. It includes two, week-long practicums in weeks 6 and 13. This option is ideal if you prefer more flexible learning or if you are from outside Christchurch.
You must be at least 18 years old by the completion of the course.
There are limited places on the course, and applications will be prioritised according to when the completed application is received by our enrolments team.
Please note: CELTA-qualified teachers are urgently required in Australia.
Online/blended course 2025: Monday 7 July to Friday 17 October 2025. The first on-campus TP week is Monday 11 August to Saturday 16 August, and the second one is Monday 29 September to Saturday 4 October.
Summer course 2025/26: Saturday 8 November 2025 to Tuesday 12 February 2026. There will be a short break for Christmas and New Year. The last class of 2025 is Saturday 20 December, and the first class of 2026 is Tuesday 6 January.
Entry is governed by the entry regulations as set out by Cambridge ESOL Examination. Applicants must have achieved the credits required for University Entrance.
You must submit a written pre-interview task and attend an interview during which language proficiency will be assessed.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- The English Language requirements for this programme are higher than the minimum set by NZQA, therefore; applicants who have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance may be required to provide evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 7.0 Academic
- 7 Listening
- 7 Reading
- 7 Writing
- 7 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
Graduates will be able to teach English to adults throughout the world in a range of environments including tertiary institutions, community education classrooms, private international language schools and in one-on-one tutor positions. Other career options include working with migrant and refugee employment and settlement services.
Study pathways
You might consider the Diploma in Tertiary Learning and Teaching.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Mathematics
CELTA - Certificate in English Language Teaching to Speakers of Other Languages
With a University of Cambridge Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA) qualification you can teach English as an additional language to adults anywhere in the world.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Other |
| Code | G07011 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | NULL |
| Credits | 30 |
| Level | 5 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised before enrolment |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | G07011-STRU |
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
You must submit a written pre-interview task and attend an interview during which language proficiency will be assessed.
See overview for moreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
- CELTA Additional Requirements Form PDF, 109 KB
Area of Interest
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