In this conversation, Luan and Mairead discuss practical strategies for lesson planning on a budget, emphasising the use of everyday materials, DIY resources, and the importance of teacher confidence. They highlight the value of building a supportive TEFL community for sharing ideas and resources, ultimately reinforcing that effective teaching is about creativity and resourcefulness rather than financial expenditure.
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16:47
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16:47
From fast food to the classroom: Lucas's TEFL journey
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, host Luan sits down with Lucas — a TEFL-certified teacher who made an inspiring career shift from the restaurant industry to education. Lucas opens up about the challenges and unexpected lessons from his certification journey, his unforgettable first teaching experience, and how TEFL has shaped his personal and professional growth. He also highlights the power of cultural exchange in the classroom and shares practical advice for anyone thinking about starting their own TEFL adventure.
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23:41
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23:41
Go-to activities for 1-to-1 lessons
Join Luan and Mairead as they share five flexible activities perfect for 1-to-1 lessons, whether online or face-to-face. These ideas are designed to help teachers make learning engaging, personal, and enjoyable, while supporting students’ fluency, confidence, and real-life communication skills.
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21:17
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21:17
1-to-1 vs Group classes: Five key differences
From solo sessions to buzzing classrooms, Luan and Mairead explore five key ways 1-to-1 and group teaching really differ—and how teachers can adapt, connect, and make every lesson feel effortless and fun.The conversation emphasizes the importance of adapting teaching strategies to suit different learning environments and the unique challenges and opportunities each setting presents.
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18:52
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18:52
Is online teaching right for you?
Luan and Mairead explore the realities of online teaching, weighing flexibility, independence, technology challenges, and isolation. They share insights and key questions to help teachers decide if this career path suits their skills, lifestyle, and professional goals.
Dive into the world of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) with TEFL Unlocked, the ultimate podcast for aspiring and seasoned educators. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to enhance your teaching skills, this podcast offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
South Africa