Short answer
A TEFL course typically covers how to plan and deliver English lessons, teach language systems and skills, manage classrooms and adapt instruction for learners who use English as an additional language.
What this means in practice
Core content commonly includes grammar awareness, vocabulary, pronunciation, listening, speaking, reading, writing, lesson staging and approaches to learner errors.
More advanced programmes may add assessment, materials development, young learners, business English, teacher development or deeper methodology.
What should you check before deciding?
- Language skills and systems
- Lesson planning and classroom management
- Assessment and feedback
- Target learner groups such as children or adults
Important distinction
Course titles and hours vary, so compare the actual curriculum rather than assuming every TEFL programme covers the same depth.
Related LCT pathway
LCT provides a tiered TEFL/TESOL pathway and specialist language-teaching courses.
Explore the TEFL curriculumEditorial information
Written byLondon College of Teachers Academic Team
Last reviewed9 August 2026
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