CEL®LEP is open centre authorized by Cambridge ESOL to administer the TKT (Teaching Knowledge Test) course and test.
What is TKT?
TKT is a new test about the most essential teaching knowledge needed by teachers of primary, secondary or adult learners teaching English to speakers of other languages, anywhere in the world.
Who is TKT for?
It is ideal for teachers with experience in TESL/TEFL and is also suitable for people who would like to teach English but do have a teaching position yet.
What are TKT aims?
What are the requirements?
There are no formal entry requirements. Candidates are strongly advised to have at least an upper intermediate level of English – equivalent to students after the end of CEL®LEP UPPER INTERMEDIATE 2.
What is the structure of the TKT test?
TKT has three core modules. Each module consists of a test of 80 objective questions, lasting 80 minutes each.
Module 1 - Language and background to language learning and teaching
Module 2 - Planning lessons and use of resources for language teaching
Module 3 - Managing the teaching and learning process
These can be taken together in one exam session or separately, in any order, over three sessions.
What does TKT involve?
Most teachers are likely to follow a preparation course before taking the test, although it is not mandatory to take the course in order to register for the test, and we recommend it.
The TKT course gives teachers a strong foundation in the core areas of teaching knowledge needed in the English language teaching classroom.
It helps the understanding of:
Results and Certificates:
Results are issued in the form of certificate after approximately three-four weeks after the test date. TKT is not a PASS/FAIL test. Candidate performance is reported using the four bands below:
| Band | A candidate at this level demonstrates |
|---|---|
| 1 | limited knowledge of TKT content areas |
| 2 | basic, but systematic knowledge of TKT content areas |
| 3 | breadth and depth of knowledge of TKT content areas |
| 4 | extensive knowledge of TKT content areas |
- There is no need to take all the three modules to obtain a certificate.
- Candidates receive a certificate for each module they take.
- Candidates can take as many modules the want and in any order.
When is it advisible to take the TKT?
TKT should be the starting award for teachers. The ones who want to develop their knowledge further can progress to ICELT (In-service Certificate in English Language Teaching) and CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults).
Test Dates:
May/June and November/December
TKT Course:
TKT course will offer an opportunity revise the professional terminology, discuss real cases and participate in activities geared to the success of the test.
Resources available:
TKT Handbook and sample papers
TKT Information for Candidates
TKT Glossary
Online Teacher Resources
TKT site:
CambridgeESOL.org/TKT[1]