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CELTA - Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

STARTS: July 2025
Distance; Madras Street

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 three ways of completing the CELTA programme at Ara.

Face-to-face part-time

This option takes 11 weeks part-time. It comprises 12–15 hours’ face-to-face study and a minimum of 15 hours independent study each week. It’s held on Saturdays (9am–4.30pm) and Tuesday and Thursday evenings (5.30pm–9pm).

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 six and 13. This option is ideal if you prefer more flexible learning, or if you’re not based in Christchurch.

Face-to-face full-time

This option takes 4 weeks full-time. It’s held Monday to Friday (8.30am–5pm). This option is intensive and requires you to do course work in the evenings and weekends. Please note: You must be at least 18 years old at the start of your course.

PS:

You need an awareness of language and competency in both written and spoken English (these are assessed through application tasks and an interview).

Domestic students may be eligible for a student loan or Studylink support for this course. You can check your eligibility with the Student Support team at Ara.

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 more

Career 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

FULL-TIME - 11 Weeks (Part-time options available)

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
Next Starts July 2025
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
Enquire Now View Dates & Apply
Online - Part Time - Principles and Practice of English Language Teaching to Adults-July 2025-CHCH
Start date: 07 July 2025
Apply
Face to Face Part Time-Principles and Practice of English Language Teaching to Adults-Nov 2025-CHCH
Start date: 08 November 2025
Apply

With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…

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Additional Entry Requirements

You must submit a written pre-interview task and attend an interview during which language proficiency will be assessed.

See overview for more

Credit Recognition

If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.

Find out more

Documents

Area of Interest

Key Information for Students

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