The course’s main objective is to introduce trainees to, and help them (re)evaluate and (re)consider the main principles involved in teaching Young Learners English. The course is not designed with one particular age group in mind. Input sessions cover the complete range of young learners (from 3 - 16 years). The course is validated, and syllabus and assessment criteria are fixed by the International House World Organisation.

Most people complete an initial teacher training course, such as CELTA, and with this, go off and teach in numerous teaching environments. However, more and more of these teaching positions require people to teach younger learners.

The teaching of English as a foreign language to young learners is growing rapidly around the world and there are already certain areas where this is the predominate share of the market (for example, Spain and Japan). Unfortunately a large number of these schools are still new to the area which means support and back up can be limited.

As a teacher of young learners you have an extra responsibility as the way you teach and the learning environment you create have an effect on the way the children will learn and view language learning for the rest of their lives.

Therefore, it seems only fair on them and in the long run on you, to be as prepared as possible to teach them. You should be able to provide the best possible learning experience for them to ensure they develop an enthusiasm and interest in the language that will stay with them far beyond your few classes with them.

Knowing what young learners of different ages are like, what they need and how best to approach teaching them, along with a whole host of practical ideas will certainly make your job an easier and less daunting one.