Course Description

Advanced Diploma for Career Progression in English Language Teaching

The LRN ELTAD (English Language Teaching and Assessment Diploma) is a comprehensive, advanced-level qualification designed for experienced English language educators seeking to deepen their understanding of TESOL methodologies, curriculum design, and educational research. Ideal for teachers and trainers looking to progress into senior teaching roles, academic leadership, or teacher training, this diploma builds on knowledge gained at Level 5 and Level 6, guiding candidates toward excellence in English Language Teaching (ELT).

The qualification is structured around three mandatory units, each of which is assessed rigorously through assignments, teaching practice, and research. ELTAD is a recognised professional development pathway for English language educators who are ready to specialise, reflect, and lead in their field.

Unit One: Understanding Language, Methodology, and Resources for Teaching

Aim:

This unit explores the linguistic, methodological, and analytical foundations of teaching English across a variety of contexts. It focuses on enhancing the candidate’s language awareness, particularly with regard to how language is structured, used, and analysed in both spoken and written forms.

Candidates will explore:

• The structure of English across text types

• Approaches to language analysis for teaching

• Strategies for personal linguistic development

• Practical application of this knowledge to classroom instruction and learner support

Assessment:

• Two externally set and marked written assignments (2,500 words each)

• One Viva Voce (20-minute oral assessment)

Unit Two: Principles of English Language Teaching

Aim:

This unit delves into the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of English language teaching, including:

• Key theories of language and learning

• Approaches and methods in TESOL

• Concepts of curriculum design, syllabus planning, and materials development

• Roles of teachers and learners, and models of classroom management

• Processes for curriculum evaluation and renewal

It enables candidates to develop a critical and research-informed perspective on language education, empowering them to design and deliver high-quality learning experiences.

Assessment:

• One externally set and marked assignment (3,000 words)

• Teaching practice portfolio, including:

  • Video evidence of at least one externally assessed teaching session

  • Evidence of preparing, delivering, and reflecting on at least 10 lessons

  • Observations and evaluations of 20 hours of teaching/learning activity (including peer and self-reflection)

Unit Three: Research Report

Aim:

This unit develops the candidate’s ability to carry out formal academic research in TESOL. It introduces various research methodologies and analytical tools relevant to language education and allows the candidate to apply these methods to a real-world classroom or institutional context.

Candidates will:

• Select a research topic relevant to their teaching context

• Use appropriate methods to gather and analyse data

• Present findings with clarity and critical insight

• Reflect on the implications of their research for professional practice

Assessment:

• An extended research project of 5,000–6,000 words

Who is the ELTAD for?

This diploma is ideal for:

• Practising English language teachers with Level 5 or Level 6 TESOL qualifications

• Educators aiming to move into academic leadership, training, or curriculum development

• Teachers seeking a structured pathway toward DELTA, DipTESOL, or postgraduate studies

• ELT professionals wanting to formalise their experience and advance their careers globally

Key Benefits:

• Comprehensive training in advanced TESOL concepts

• Professional recognition and increased employability

• Development of teaching, research, and leadership competencies

• A strong bridge to further study or senior roles in ELT institutions

The LRN ELTAD equips educators with the confidence, knowledge, and credentials to excel in complex, multicultural, and dynamic English language teaching environments—inspiring learners and influencing educational quality at every level.

What will I learn?

• Skill Enhancement: Equip candidates with advanced skills and knowledge essential for effective English language teaching to speakers of other languages, particularly adults, in diverse learning contexts.
• Theoretical Understanding: Develop a deep understanding of key theories and principles underpinning language teaching, learning methodologies, and language analysis to inform instructional practices.
• Curriculum Development: Enable candidates to critically evaluate and contribute to language education curriculum development processes, including syllabus design, materials development, and classroom management strategies.
• Research Competence: Provide candidates with the necessary tools and techniques to conduct formal research in the field of English language teaching, fostering a research-oriented approach to professional practice.
• Reflective Practice: Foster a culture of critical reflection and self-evaluation among candidates, encouraging continuous improvement and professional development in their teaching practice.
• Assessment Proficiency: Develop proficiency in assessing learners' language proficiency and progress through formative and summative assessment strategies, including portfolio assessment and observation techniques.
• Pedagogical Adaptability: Cultivate adaptive teaching skills to effectively address the diverse needs, learning styles, and linguistic backgrounds of English language learners in varied educational settings.
• Ethical and Professional Conduct: Promote ethical conduct and professionalism among candidates, emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity, respect, and inclusivity in their interactions with learners and colleagues.
• Global Perspective: Cultivate a global perspective on English language teaching, fostering cross-cultural awareness and sensitivity to diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds among learners.
• Career Advancement: Prepare candidates for career advancement opportunities in the field of English language teaching by providing a recognized qualification that demonstrates their expertise and proficiency in ELT.

Frequently-asked Questions