Date Course Format Fee
04 Oct – 13 Dec 2025 Fully Online £495
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IH Teaching Very Young Learners Course

This hands-on course is designed specifically for teaching children aged 3 to 5. Working with this age group requires unique strategies and techniques that differ greatly from typical language classrooms. The course explores topics like storytelling, games, songs, music, and chants, and gives you the tools to engage and manage Very Young Learners (VYLs) effectively, while also building a bank of useful resources and ideas.

Who is this course designed for

This course is intended for:

  • Qualified language teachers who have taught adults or children aged 6+, and want to expand into the 3–5 age group
  • International school or kindergarten teachers looking for ideas and strategies for teaching children under 6 (not limited to ESL)
  • ESL professionals seeking to transition to teaching younger learners or broaden their skill set

This course is especially useful if you:

  • Are currently teaching other age groups and want to work with VYLs
  • Are exploring new teaching environments or roles
  • Want to enhance your understanding of early childhood language learning and development
  • Are seeking more inspiration and motivation in your work with young children

Entry requirements

You should have some experience teaching English to adults, teenagers, or children aged 6 and above. A TEFL qualification isn’t required; you might be a qualified kindergarten or early childhood educator.

Your English level should be at least B2.

Course objectives

The course prepares teachers for the unique demands of working with learners aged 3 to 5. Teaching VYLs is very different from working with older children. In this age group, the teacher plays a larger role—not just in language learning, but in care, safety, and emotional support.

The course is designed to help you develop the specific methods, mindset, and materials required for this age group.

Course content

There are 10 modules covering:

  • Understanding VYLs and their learning behavior
  • The role of the VYL teacher
  • Managing behavior in the classroom
  • Coursebooks and classroom materials
  • Creating custom materials
  • Lesson planning for younger learners
  • Storytelling techniques
  • Using games and songs
  • Incorporating music and chants
  • Supporting early literacy and cognitive development

Each week includes discussion forums, quizzes, readings, and activities to try in the classroom. Assignments vary by module—for instance, in the storytelling module, you’ll adapt a story for use with VYLs. The course is practical, with very little academic writing.

How is the course delivered?

This course is asynchronous, giving you the flexibility to study at your own pace. There are no scheduled sessions, so it fits around other work and personal commitments, regardless of your time zone.

You’ll move through the course alongside a cohort of fellow teachers. Your tutors will provide ongoing asynchronous support, and participation in discussion forums is strongly encouraged.

These forums offer a valuable community where participants exchange practical tips and teaching experiences.

Duration

  • 10 weeks of tutor-guided instruction
  • 2 additional weeks to finalize and submit your assessment portfolio

Your time commitment

  • At least 5 hours/week for course content
  • 2 hours/week on portfolio tasks, which involve applying what you’ve learned to your own teaching
  • More time spent engaging in forums and reflection will enhance your learning experience

Your fellow course participants and online community

You’ll study alongside a diverse international group of teachers, usually between 12 to 18 participants. Many find that the peer community is one of the most rewarding parts of the course.

Sharing classroom-tested games, songs, and activities often provides fresh ideas and inspiration. Participants bring varied experiences, which enrich discussions and help everyone grow.

This is not a solitary learning experience—you’ll learn from your peers, your tutors, and the course content.

 Assessment

Each module includes a graded task, assessed by your tutor. At the end, you’ll compile a portfolio, including completed assignments and a final reflective essay.

Participation in discussions and activities also contributes to your success. The IH World Assessment Unit will evaluate your portfolio.

The final result is recorded as Pass or Fail.

Your verified digital certificate

After successful completion and external moderation, you’ll receive a digital certificate, hosted on a secure, verified platform.

You can easily share your certificate with employers or clients. It’s:

  • Safe from loss or damage
  • Instantly accessible
  • Printable anytime
  • Environmentally friendly