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SEE TEFL

SEE TEFL

4.97 Rating
32 reviews
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Why choose SEE TEFL?

SEE TEFL is one of the most most established and respected TEFL training courses in Asia. They offer the standard 120-hour onsite 4-week program with 6 1-hour observed teaching practices in local schools allowing their graduates to teach anywhere across the world, plus they offer a 4-5 month teaching Internship which provides an opportunity for participants to live as English teachers in Thai schools in rural areas of the country; participants fully immerse themselves in Thai culture and live as a respected 'ajarn' in their new community.

SEE's training program is accredited by the Thai Ministry of Education and its management system is ISO 9001 compliant. It's also a TQUK approved training center. Courses are usually oversubscribed so it's recommended to book early in order to guarantee a place on your preferred training date.

In addition, SEE TEFL assists in opening a Thai bank account and purchasing a Thai SIM card with a data package. They also provide a free airport collection.

Website
seetefl.com
Founded
2006
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Diversity & Inclusion

SEE TEFL is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, and other diverse identities). We believe in promoting diversity, acceptance, and respect for everyone in our TEFL community.

Impact

At SEE TEFL, we recognize the critical importance of sustainability and are committed to incorporating sustainable practices into all aspects of our operations. Our goal is to foster environmental, social, and economic sustainability to create a positive impact on the communities we serve and the world at large.
At SEE TEFL, we recognize the ethical impact of our actions and strive to uphold the highest ethical standards in all aspects of our operations. Our commitment to ethical practices extends to our interactions with trainees, partner schools, local communities, and the broader educational landscape. We firmly believe that ethical conduct is the cornerstone of building trust, fostering positive relationships, and creating a sustainable and impactful educational experience.

Reviews

Default avatar
Jaime
Male
United States
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program
Program:
Get TEFL Certified On-Site in Thailand

Best course ever.

Mar 29, 2024

The course is amazing. Great staff great facilities and overall great program. I’ve learned so much in 4 weeks. I’m confident in my teaching abilities thanks to the foundation that SEETEFL has taught me. The program itself is well balanced. As you progress your skill set begins to take shape and next thing you know you have completed the program and looking for work. SEETEFL also offers support after graduation you are never alone. The overall quality and effectiveness of the program speaks for itself. Thank you SEETEFL.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
As you begin teaching in real classes it can be nerve racking but the skills that I was taught showed me to overcome my fears and rely on my training.
Default avatar
John
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program
Program:
Get TEFL Certified On-Site in Thailand

Well worth the time and money

Dec 20, 2023

I did my SEE TEFL 4-week course a few months ago. I checked reviews, read blogs and forums, and compared them to other similar programs before enrolling. There wasn't really anything I found in my research to keep them off the top of my short list.

Pre-enrollment was made easy by the director's prompt responses to all my emails. He reassured me regarding my apprehensions and worries. Finally, I dived in and made the commitment. Around a month before training started I received a 'pre-arrival' training pack with video reviews of the teaching methodology we would be trained to use and an overview of grammar terminology. The first two weeks of onsite training focused on developing individual teaching skills and grammar awareness. There was also a little Thai - great fun - and a very useful day spent looking at Thai culture. The last two weeks were all about the observed teaching practices at local school. I can honestly say that I don't know how anyone can become an effective teacher without face to face training.

The school stayed in touch with me after training regularly asking us how we were going with our job searches and whether we needed any extra support. I didn't need help and found employment quickly but there were a couple of non-native speakers who needed extra help, but I believe they received it as I've seen photos of them teaching on Facebook.

There wasn't anything I would say that was negative. However, I think some trainees were surprised at the intensity of the last two weeks. This isn't an online class where you read about training, this course is serious about making you an effective teacher and this requires hard work.

Overall, a great experience that set me up for a fulfilling teaching experience.

What was your funniest moment?
I think the funniest moment of my experience was watching another trainee trying to clean a whiteboard after using a permanent marker. Funny because this wasn't the first time this particular trainee had done this.
Pros
  • Professional
  • Effective
  • Intense
Cons
  • Intense
Default avatar
Paul
79
Male
United States
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program
Program:
Get TEFL Certified On-Site in Thailand

Great Program - Well Worth It!

May 10, 2023

I went to SEE TEFL in Chiang Mai back in 2011 with the intention of getting an English teaching certificate to be used to augment my retirement income, if needed, as I travelled around the world. As fate would have it, I returned to Thailand a year later, met a wonderful Thai woman, later we were married, and so I ended up never actually teaching English.

But having said that, the decision to take the certificate course with SEE TEFL was one of the best decisions I ever made. Director/teacher John Quinn and his lovely wife Dr. Ying, were terrific people who made the experience both educationally and personally very rewarding. The structure of their language teaching method is proven to be highly effective. The gradual daily increase in knowledge and experience is rigorous - yet a lot of fun. We also learned some basic Thai language along with a helpful bit of Thai culture.

An important and rewarding aspect of the SEE TEFL course was that many of the people I met in my class, and shared our "language boot camp" experiences with, became and remain good friends, some of whom I continue to be in close contact with all these years later.

I have many fond memories of SEE TEFL to this day. To be sure, everything starts at the top, and John Quinn and Dr. Ying are great people!

Pros
  • Their language teaching techniques are proven highly effective.
  • Classes were relaxed and fun.
  • Teaching practices are invaluable aids to becoming a better teacher.
Cons
  • It wasn't easy. (not really a Con)
Default avatar
Patrick
65
Male
Belgium
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program
Program:
Get TEFL Certified On-Site in Thailand

My SEETEFL experience

May 10, 2023

I am thrilled to write this glowing review of my experience at SEETEFL Chiang Mai! I had such a fantastic time there, as SEETEFL is renowned for providing top-notch TEFL courses that are both comprehensive and engaging.
From the moment I arrived at SEETEFL Chiang Mai, I was greeted with warmth and professionalism. The staff was incredibly helpful and supportive, ensuring that I had everything I needed to succeed in my TEFL course. The instructors were some of the best in the industry, and their passion for teaching English was contagious. They made sure to provide a learning environment that was both challenging and fun, making every class something to look forward to.
One thing that really stood out to me was the variety of teaching methods and techniques that were utilized at SEETEFL Chiang Mai. The course was designed to be hands-on, which meant that I was given plenty of opportunities to practice my teaching skills in real-world scenarios. This approach was incredibly effective, and it gave me the confidence I needed to start teaching English right away.
Overall, I have nothing but positive things to say about my experience at SEETEFL Chiang Mai. I received a top-quality education that has prepared me well for my future as an English teacher. I have no doubt that I will excel in my new role, thanks in part to the exceptional training I received at SEETEFL Chiang Mai. I am grateful for this experience and I highly recommend SEETEFL to anyone looking to pursue a career in teaching English.

Pros
  • 1.Comprehensive curriculum: SEETEFL offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of teaching English as a foreign language. This ensures that students receive a well-rounded education and are well-prepared to start teaching upon graduation.
  • 2.Experienced instructors: SEETEFL employs experienced instructors who are knowledgeable about the latest teaching techniques and methods. They are dedicated to providing students with the best possible education and support.
  • 3.Hands-on approach: SEETEFL offers a hands-on approach to learning, giving students plenty of opportunities to practice their teaching skills in real-world scenarios. This helps to build confidence and ensure that students are well-prepared to teach Engl
Cons
  • 2.Intensive course: The TEFL course at SEETEFL is intensive and requires a significant time commitment. Students must be prepared to devote a considerable amount of time and effort to complete the course successfully.
  • 3.Cost: SEETEFL is not the most affordable TEFL provider on the market, and the cost of the course may be prohibitive for some students. However, the quality of education and the hands-on approach may justify the price for those who can afford it.
Default avatar
Vincent
41
Male
United Kingdom
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program
Program:
Paid TEFL Internship in Thailand

Excellent TEFL Course and placement

Nov 18, 2022

I enrolled onto SEE TEFL's internship course in 2022 and it gave me the skills, knowledge and practice needed to prepare myself for teaching in Thailand. The course was professionally delivered, and there was a great deal of support offered throughout my training but also during my placement. All the staff were incredibly helpful and they also made the experience fun too. I've not only gained the skills delivered through their training but I've also become much more confident in myself. This is an amazing experience. I highly recommend SEE TEFL.

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Programs

Displaying 1 - 2 of 2

Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Brenna Skattebo

Program
Get TEFL Certified On-Site in Thailand
Brenna Skattebo

Why did you choose this program?

Not only did SEE TEFL have awesome reviews, but when I emailed with questions, John, the Director, personally responded to me (sometimes within minutes). His responses eased mine and my husband's fears about going so far from home and doing something so foreign to us!

When all else seemed pretty up in the air in terms of our big move, SEE TEFL was the one thing that felt really trustworthy and secure. It made the whole process of moving easier, knowing we could ask them questions!

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

SEE TEFL is a TEFL course -- while they don't get your visa for you, etc., they are super helpful in answering any questions you might have when coming out to Thailand and they also provide various recommendations for housing, food, and so on!

I emailed John regarding immunizations, SIM cards, and the visa situation! He was so helpful. But if you're looking for a company you can pay to DO everything for you, this might not be the best option for you. I, however, didn't mind doing that extra work as we prepared for our move.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Regarding SEE TEFL, I wish I had prepared myself mentally for how challenging the course ended up being! The work is manageable; however, it's definitely time-consuming and takes a lot of energy to prepare your lesson plans and practice all of the material. With that said, it was SO valuable and I'm very thankful for all of the work we put in and the results we saw by the end of the course.

For moving to Thailand, I would just recommend that you make a good checklist of all the things there are to do before you leave. It seems intimidating to say the least, but when you break it all down, it's really just little to-dos. You'll be thankful you pushed through once you're here.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

The course really is 9:00-4:00 (sometimes starting earlier). For the first two weeks, you will be in class doing grammar and teaching inputs most of the day. You'll get a few small breaks as well as an hour for lunch.

After class those first two weeks, you'll have time to enjoy Chiang Mai!

The last two weeks are definitely more strenuous, but worth the time put in. You'll either be preparing and practicing lessons or going to schools for your teaching practices. After 4:00, you'll likely need to keep practicing and preparing!

Those two weeks consisted of a lot of ordering food in and late nights of preparation (think finals week in college!).

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My greatest fear was that I wouldn't be able to do some of the logistical items that seem important before coming. Some items, like the visa, ARE important and should be squared away. Other things -- like immunizations, shopping for "necessary" clothes and items, doctors' appointments, etc. -- I wish I had waited on. Thailand is very different from home, but they have everything you would need here, especially great and affordable medical care and a ton of shopping. You can find everything here that you would find back home, for a fraction of the price.

Is there any other advice for prospective travelers?

My advice to anyone considering this experience is: just do it.

Almost every day I pinch myself and wonder "Why doesn't everyone do this?" Several months ago, my husband and I were so nervous to quit our 9-5 jobs and move across the world, but now we're just wishing we had done it sooner! If there's any part of you that feels drawn to teaching English, traveling the world, and having new experiences, don't think twice!

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

John Quinn

Program
Paid TEFL Internship in Thailand
After graduating with a technical degree, John worked as a Scientific Officer with the UK’s Ministry of Defence. However, this didn’t satisfy his need to travel and his desire to help people. After a period of short-term jobs and budget traveling, he finally found his calling: EFL teaching. Since 1999 John has gone from teacher to examiner to manager to trainer to school owner. He now owns one of the most successful TEFL training schools in Asia. According to him, the secret of his success has been hard work, customer care and then more hard work.

What position do you hold at SEE TEFL? What has been your career path so far?

John: I am the founder, director of the managing company and the senior trainer for SEE TEFL. In addition, all email inquiries are sent to me and receive my personal response. Before I became an EFL teacher in 1999, I had always been searching for this type of career. Until that point in my life, I had mixed shoestring travel with spells of unsatisfying employment in the UK. My ‘eureka’ moment was during a bus journey in India; I met two vacationing TEFL teachers and they told me about their lives as EFL teachers in Bangkok.

I had never heard of TEFL before, and this seemed like the perfect career for me. It would allow me to continue to travel to far and exotic countries while doing something worthwhile with my life. Teaching, along with nursing, had always appealed to me as it would involve working with people and not paper or computer files.

SEE TEFL Courses in Thailand

The first step would be to take a TEFL course and I had been instructed by my new TEFL friends that the Saturday Education supplement of The Guardian newspaper would list upcoming courses. While there were only three listed, there was one was at a college just 500m from my parents’ house (where I was staying) and it was starting in 10 days. My brother-in-law, who is a builder, asked me whether I was interested in 7 days cash-in-hand work on one of his sites. I did, and I started to believe in fate from this moment.

Did YOU teach abroad?! If so, where and what inspired you to go?

John: I started my teaching career in Chiang Mai as an hourly-paid part-time teacher. After 2 years, it was time to move on and my next step was a 2-year full-time contract at the British Council. After another year of teaching the same verb tenses to mainly elementary-level students, I felt it was time for a new challenge. I grabbed the opportunity during my time at the BC to become an IELTS examiner and start leading IELTS strategy classes.

Upon completion of this contract I took 6 months off to go traveling around SE Asia. On returning to Chiang Mai, I was offered the position of Director of Studies at a branch of EF. We taught in-house, and I also managed teachers who we contracted to formal schools.

My next move was to open my own EFL language school in Chiang Mai – SEE TEFL started running courses in 2006. Since this date, we have refined the content, developed relationships with a large number of schools, achieved ISO 9001 compliance and obtained recognition from the Thai Ministry of Education for our program. We’ve also trained close to 700 TEFL teachers.

What does the future hold for SEE TEFL - any exciting new programs to share?

John: We ran our first Internship program in September 2013. This is a program that is suitable for people who are not fully committed to a career change. It offers training and a job guarantee for a 4-5 month placement in a Thai rural school. We are also looking to work with a partner and open the SEE TEFL program in Bangkok and at a beach location. We will then have courses in the Thai cultural capital of Thailand, the business centre and one next to the sea.

What about the future of the TEFL abroad industry? How do you think international education will change over the next 10 years?

John: Ten years ago many people predicted online courses were the future of TEFL. I was never convinced. Practical teaching skills can only be acquired through practical-skills training. Our focus is always on developing practical skills. I think most people thinking of TEFL recognize this as well. In addition, I predict ISO 9001 compliance will be adopted by more programs over the next 10 years. This is the only externally audited quality-management standard recognized around the world. It’s a guarantee of quality in teacher training courses.

SEE TEFL Courses in Thailand