How the CELTA Course Transformed My Teaching: Sean’s Journey with CELTA Cambodia
If you’re an aspiring English language teacher or looking to take your teaching to the next level, the CELTA course is a globally respected qualification that can open new doors in your professional journey. Delivered by the Australian Centre for Education (ACE) in Cambodia and accredited by Cambridge English, part of the University of Cambridge, CELTA is available in both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Sean, a recent CELTA graduate, shares how the course helped sharpen his teaching skills, challenged his mindset, and reshaped his approach to the classroom.
Why Sean Chose CELTA
Sean had been teaching before taking the CELTA, but he felt the need to become a more well-rounded educator.
“I have a genuine passion for teaching,” he explains, “and I wanted to refine what I was already doing while learning new techniques grounded in solid methodology.”
He enrolled with an open mind and was ready to challenge himself in a professional, high-standard training environment.
Learning from a Diverse Community
One of the most memorable aspects of the course for Sean was working alongside other passionate educators from different backgrounds.
“It was often a vulnerable experience,” Sean recalls, “but it fostered strong bonds and valuable insights.”
The collaborative learning environment, combined with expert feedback from Cambridge-approved CELTA trainers, made every session meaningful. Whether online or face-to-face, the CELTA course emphasizes reflection, growth, and hands-on teaching practice.
A New Approach to Lesson Planning
Before CELTA, Sean often spent a lot of time designing activities and worksheets. After the course, his planning became more focused and intentional.
“Now I ask myself, ‘What is the aim of this lesson? How will I measure success?’” he says.
He learned how to manage his teacher talking time, use graded language, and become more aware of timing and student engagement. These changes helped him deliver more effective, learner-centered lessons.
A Shift in Teaching Philosophy
“CELTA made me reflect more deeply on everything I do in the classroom,” Sean says. “My lessons are now more focused, and my teaching is more student-centered than ever before.”
His post-CELTA teaching practice is guided by clarity, structure, and purpose. He’s more confident in his ability to identify learning objectives and help students reach them.
Advice to Future Trainees
Sean encourages anyone considering CELTA to commit to the process and trust the feedback.
“Embrace the challenges. The growth you’ll experience is invaluable.”
He credits CELTA’s emphasis on real-time teaching practice and reflective feedback for helping him build the skills and confidence to grow professionally.
Start Your Journey Today
Start today, teach tomorrow — your classroom journey begins here.
