TEFL Unlocked

How do you stand out in a sea of online English teachers? It all starts with your profile, and in this episode, we’re joined once again by the amazing Nancy Ambrose to show you exactly how to make yours shine. Nancy shares actionable tips for standing out on teaching platforms, building trust with students, and writing a bio that speaks to your students’ needs , not just your achievements. From th...

In this episode, hosts Luan and Mairead take on one of the most essential (and often nerve-wracking) classroom skills: flexibility . From unexpected latecomers to over-prepared lesson plans, from bored students to wildly enthusiastic detours—you'll hear real teachers talk, relatable scenarios, and practical tips on how to go with the flow without losing your footing. Whether you’re a TEFL newb...

Luan and Mairead are diving into the essentials of planning a solid Business English course — whether you’re teaching online, in-company, or stepping in to cover a colleague. We unpack why a needs analysis is the foundation of any successful course, how to strike the right tone in a business context, and how to use authentic materials that reflect your students' real working lives. Additionall...

Luan and Mairead dive deep into one of the most essential—and delicate—aspects of teaching: giving effective feedback . From the right timing and tone to avoiding overwhelming learners, they share actionable tips for making feedback empowering instead of discouraging. Whether you’re teaching young learners or adult students, this episode explores: When and how to give corrective vs. positive feedb...

Thinking about packing your bags and teaching in a new country? 🌍 Before you hop on that plane, this episode dives into the must-know factors every aspiring TEFL teacher should consider. From cultural adjustments and visa requirements to job markets, salaries, and lifestyle expectations — we cover it all. Whether you're dreaming of classrooms in South Korea, Spain, or South Africa, this conve...

Join hosts Luan and Mairead as they sit down with Kirsten, a seasoned TEFL teacher whose journey from psychology graduate to globe-trotting educator is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Kirsten opens up about her unforgettable teaching experiences across various countries, the highs and lows of life abroad, and how TEFL has reshaped her worldview. From cultural surprises to classroom vi...

In this episode, Luan and Mairead dive into the rising demand for Business English. They unpack what it means, who can teach it, and what kinds of learners are signing up for it. From the dynamic nature of Business English classes to student motivations and real-world challenges, they share insights that will inspire TEFL teachers to explore this exciting niche. Tune in to discover why your TEFL q...

Luan and Mairead dive into the art of teaching teenagers in the EFL classroom. They share practical strategies to build authentic connections, make lessons relevant, and create a safe, engaging learning environment. From using music and technology to introducing variety in lesson planning, this conversation is packed with insights to help teachers keep teens motivated and involved. Whether you&#39...

In this episode, Luan and Mairead discuss the challenges and strategies for adapting coursebooks in TEFL teaching. They emphasize the importance of personalizing content to engage students and provide practical tips for making lessons more relevant and interesting. The conversation covers the limitations of traditional coursebooks, effective adaptation techniques, and the value of gamification in...

In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead discuss the critical importance of keeping teacher talk time (TTT) concise in the classroom. They explore the negative impacts of excessive TTT on student engagement and learning, emphasizing the need for teachers to provide ample opportunities for students to practice speaking. The conversation includes practical strategies for reducing TTT...

In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the importance of teaching functions in language learning. They discuss how functions are prefabricated chunks of language that enhance fluency and flexibility in communication. The conversation covers effective teaching strategies, including the PPP approach (presentation, practice, production), and emphasizes the significance of under...

In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, Luan shares a personal experience of one of her worst English lessons, focusing on the challenges faced while teaching an A2-level adult class about ecosystems. She reflects on the importance of adapting lessons to suit the needs and interests of adult learners, emphasizing key lessons learned from the experience, including the need to read the room, change contex...

In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead share valuable life lessons learned from their teaching experiences. They discuss the importance of understanding language, building rapport with students, and developing organizational skills. The conversation also touches on stepping out of comfort zones, gaining cultural insights, and the significance of empathy and patience in teaching....

In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead discuss the evolution of online teaching and its growing prominence compared to traditional face-to-face teaching. They explore the key differences between the two methods, including interaction styles, technology requirements, classroom environments, feedback mechanisms, and the flexibility that online teaching offers. The conversation high...

In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead interview Nancy, an experienced online English teacher from Johannesburg, South Africa. Nancy shares her journey from accounting to teaching, detailing her daily routine, payment structures, and her challenges in the online teaching landscape. She emphasizes the importance of student engagement strategies and offers valuable advice for new E...

In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the complexities of adult learners' motivations for attending English classes. They discuss the differences between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, highlighting how personal goals and external pressures shape students' experiences. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these motivations to create a supportive...

In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead welcome Henri, an international recruitment consultant at The TEFL Academy, to discuss the current landscape of TEFL teaching jobs. They explore the most in-demand countries for TEFL teachers, the importance of having an accredited TEFL certificate, and the challenges faced by applicants in the job search process. The conversation also cover...

In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead discuss the intricacies of planning and executing speaking tasks in the classroom. They emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate topics, interaction patterns, and scaffolding to support students. The conversation also covers the significance of modeling tasks, monitoring student interactions, and providing effective feedback to enhance th...

In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the complexities of teaching writing in the classroom. They discuss common misconceptions about writing, the challenges students face, and effective strategies to make writing lessons more engaging and less intimidating. The conversation emphasizes the importance of enthusiasm, preparation, and relevance in writing tasks, while also add...

In this episode of TEFL Unlocked , hosts Luan and Mairead address common concerns aspiring English teachers face when considering a TEFL certification. They explore the normalcy of self-doubt, the role of language skills, and the misconception that a degree in English or prior teaching experience is required. This discussion highlights the accessibility of TEFL for individuals from diverse backgro...

In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead discuss effective strategies for teaching listening skills to students. They share personal experiences of their early teaching challenges and emphasize the importance of preparation, context, and vocabulary pre-teaching in creating successful listening lessons. The conversation covers the stages of a listening lesson, including warmers, pre-teach...

In this episode, Luan and Mairead discuss the challenges ESL students face in developing their listening skills. They explore various factors that contribute to these difficulties, including the speed of speech, connected speech patterns, and the impact of accents. The conversation emphasizes the importance of using authentic materials and varied listening texts to engage students and improve thei...

In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead discuss the differences between controlled practice and freer practice within the context of a PPP lesson. They explore how controlled practice focuses on accuracy and structured activities, while freer practice encourages students to use language more naturally and fluently. The conversation emphasizes the importance of balancing both types of pr...

In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead explore effective strategies for teaching vocabulary in the language classroom. They discuss the importance of eliciting words from students rather than providing direct definitions, utilizing techniques such as context, imagery, and synonyms to enhance comprehension and engagement. The conversation also covers key aspects of vocabulary instructio...

In this episode, Luan and Mairead delve into the significance of vocabulary in language learning. They discuss the concept of lexis, the importance of understanding word classes, and the benefits of teaching collocations and dependent prepositions. The conversation also touches on idioms and their role in enhancing language comprehension. Throughout the discussion, the hosts emphasize that vocabul...