Independent international quality assurance for TEFL, TESOL and English language educationInstitutional enquiries: office@iotefl.org

IOTEFL

International Office of TEFL

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PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

Tutor & Trainer Qualifications

Standards ensuring that every tutor and trainer possesses the qualifications, competence and professional experience required for high-quality education.

Qualified professionals build learner confidence

Tutor competence is central to educational quality

IOTEFL expects tutors and trainers to possess appropriate academic qualifications, recognised teaching credentials, relevant experience and an ongoing commitment to professional development.

Minimum expectations

  • Relevant academic qualification
  • Recognised teaching certificate where applicable
  • Subject knowledge
  • Professional teaching experience
  • Continuing professional development
  • Commitment to ethical practice
CORE REQUIREMENTS

Professional qualification standards

Institutions should demonstrate that every tutor is appropriately qualified for the level and scope of teaching undertaken.

Academic Qualifications

Relevant degrees or recognised qualifications appropriate to the discipline taught.

Teaching Credentials

Recognised teacher training such as TEFL/TESOL or equivalent where applicable.

Professional Experience

Evidence of practical teaching or training experience.

Subject Expertise

Current knowledge and competence within the specialist area.

Professional Development

Regular CPD activities to maintain and improve competence.

Ethical Conduct

Compliance with the IOTEFL Code of Ethics and learner protection standards.

DOCUMENTATION

Evidence institutions should retain

  • CVs and employment history
  • Academic certificates
  • Teaching qualifications
  • CPD records
  • References where appropriate
  • Performance reviews
  • Safeguarding training records
CONTINUING COMPETENCE

Maintaining professional standards

Tutors should participate in continuing professional development, peer review, reflective practice and institutional quality assurance activities throughout their employment.

QUALITY ASSURANCE

Recruitment to ongoing review

01

Recruit

Verify qualifications and experience.

02

Induct

Introduce policies and curriculum.

03

Support

Provide mentoring and CPD.

04

Monitor

Observe teaching and collect feedback.

05

Develop

Review performance and encourage improvement.

HIGH STANDARDS

Qualified educators strengthen accredited institutions

Providers should ensure that every tutor and trainer has the competence, qualifications and support necessary to deliver consistent, high-quality education.