If you are, or wish to become a teacher of English to speakers of other languages, the TKT test offers you the opportunity to obtain a certificate issued by Cambridge University, one of the most prestigious EFL training institutes in the world.

What does TKT stand for?    
TKT, or the Teaching Knowledge Test, is an entry level certification test for teachers of English to speakers of other languages. It is one of a suite of Cambridge teaching certificates that include the CELTA and DELTA. 

What does the TKT consist of?
The TKT tests candidates on their knowledge of how to teach English. The syllabus covers teaching methodology, the language of teaching, the use of resources, lesson planning and classroom management.  This content aligns closely with the syllabus of our TESOL course, so that candidates who successfully finish our training course should be well prepared for the TKT.  A review of their course materials should be adequate to prepare them for the tests. 

There are 3 core TKT modules that are central to general teaching and relate closely to our TESOL syllabus:
  Module 1 – Language and background to language teaching
  Module 2 – Lesson planning and use of resources for language teaching
  Module 3 – Classroom management

What do the tests comprise?
Each module is independent of the others and the tests can be taken in any order.  Each test is 80 minutes long and contains 80 objective questions.  The candidate is required to select the correct answer and mark this on a computerised sheet.  There are no essays or written responses.                 

How are the tests scored?
The tests are scored in bands of competency with Band 4 being the highest and indicating a comprehensive and accurate knowledge of the teaching area in question.  The certificate will contain a comprehensive description of your level of proficiency.  For more information on the banding see http://www.cambridgeesol.org/assets/pdf/exams/tkt/tkt-band-descriptors.pdf

Why take the TKT if I have the TESOL certificate?
The TKT is an internationally recognised teaching certificate and part of the University of Cambridge’s prestigious ESOL teaching suite.  All candidates receive an award for each module they have written. The certificate attests to the competence of the candidate and demonstrates that he/she has achieved a certain knowledge of up-to-date ELT issues.  By combining this qualification with the TESOL certificate, trainees can both enhance their job prospects and embark with confidence on their first teaching job, knowing that they are thoroughly prepared, both theoretically and practically, for the challenges ahead.