Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyCELTA - Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Certificate
Duration
4 weeks
Next start date
Expected Nov 2026
Campus
Christchurch - City Campus
Summary
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 criteria
Academic RequirementsEntry is governed by the entry regulations as set out by Cambridge ESOL Examination. Applicants must have achieved the credits required for University Entrance.
Additional RequirementsYou must submit a written pre-interview task and attend an interview during which language proficiency will be assessed.
Alternative RequirementsStill 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.
English RequirementsWhat if English is not my first Language?
Overall IELTS 7.0 Academic
- 7 Listening
- 7 Reading
- 7 Writing
- 7 Speaking
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, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test 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.
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