I think we can all agree that teaching is a profession that requires on the job experience. However, you shouldn't turn your nose up at the qualifications that are out there as they can provide you with a valuable insight into teaching methodology. Indeed what are generally considered the 'better' qualifications both for teaching ESL and in education in general all require time spent in the classroom while gaining the certificate.

I'm not sure i can agree that a year spent teaching 3-6year olds will necessarily lead you to be able to teach middle school students successfully. These two age groups require an entirely different approach. Wasn't it Sir Ken Robinson who said that a 3year old is not half a 6year old. And so on and so on