Background

In an innovative collaboration, Goldsmiths, University of London, and the University of Manchester have partnered to deliver Trinity College London’s Certificate for Practising Teachers (CertPT). This initiative aims to bridge the gap between General English teaching and English for Academic Purposes (EAP), empowering educators with practical skills and internationally recognised credentials. This case study explores why these institutions chose the CertPT, the benefits of its tailored design, and how it aligns with their educational ideology.

Why Trinity’s CertPT?

Goldsmiths and The University of Manchester required a qualification that spoke to their commitment of fostering creativity, critical thinking, and professional development. Trinity’s CertPT offered a focused approach to training academic English teachers, aligning with their existing programmes. Trinity’s reputation as a leading awarding body for Arts and English language qualifications further reinforced its appeal.

For The University of Manchester, the CertPT addressed an important need: providing a flexible qualification for practising teachers who wanted to expand their professional practice but were not ready for a Level 7 qualification. It also filled a gap for teachers that were looking to transition into EAP teaching. The qualification’s practical design, combined with the credibility of being awarded by Trinity College London, added value for both trainees and prospective employers.

Selecting Specialisms

The institutions collaboratively chose to focus on EAP, reflecting their strengths in academic English, arts, and social sciences. The CertPT’s design includes case-study materials, recommended readings, and insights drawn from both universities’ extensive experience. This equips trainees to teach diverse cohorts, from pre-sessional to in-sessional university courses, while understanding the academic language and study skills students require across disciplines and study levels.

Delivery and Experience

The first 10-week CertPT course launched in January 2024, followed by a second cohort in October 2024. The course includes reflective practice, creativity, and innovative teaching strategies - encouraging trainees to apply their existing skills to EAP contexts. Sessions cover topics such as exploiting real-world materials and vocabulary profiling, along with timely discussions on integrating AI tools into teaching practices.

Student Profiles and Outcomes

Both the Goldsmiths and University of Manchester find that CertPT students come from diverse backgrounds, ranging from General English teachers with little EAP experience to seasoned educators seeking to enhance their credentials. All share a passion for teaching and professional growth. The

course’s interactive format fosters a “virtual staffroom” environment where trainees share insights and experiences, enriching the learning process.

Feedback from the initial cohorts has been overwhelmingly positive. Trainees highlighted the practical application of course content, the depth of reading materials, and the collaborative learning environment. Specific benefits included:

· Developing skills to evaluate, adapt, and create EAP materials.

· Insights into differentiating learner needs and assessing EAP-specific skills.

· Opportunities to reflect on and refine teaching practices.

All trainees successfully passed their assessments, with several achieving merits and distinctions. The qualification has boosted their confidence and prepared them for future opportunities in EAP teaching.

Alignment with Institutional Ethos

The CertPT aligns with the pedagogical principles of both institutions. Goldsmiths values creativity and critical thinking, while The University of Manchester emphasises communicative language teaching and supporting transitions into academic settings.

Success Metrics The CertPT’s success is measured through high pass rates, positive feedback, and trainees’ enhanced employability. Feedback from the first cohort highlighted the course’s practical focus and adaptability to diverse teaching settings. Students particularly appreciated the emphasis on self-reflection, innovative teaching strategies, and aligning existing skills with EAP requirements.

Future Outlook As demand for specialised English teaching qualifications grows, Goldsmiths and The University of Manchester are optimistic about the CertPT’s future. Plans include expanding offerings to address emerging trends in EAP and adapting to advancements like AI in education. The CertPT’s flexibility positions it as a vital tool for teachers navigating the evolving landscape of Higher Education.

If you would like to take the next step in your teaching career, Trinity’s CertPT can help you get there.

To find out more about Goldsmiths and University of Manchester’s collaboration, and how it can help you to meet learners’ needs in the ever-evolving world of English language teaching, visit their website today.