I have a first class BMus, an LRSM (Cello performance dip) and am currently doing a Masters in Psychosocial Studies in Birkbeck, University of London, which will be finished in September 2012, although I will then be going straight into another course in Goldsmiths, which will last until September 2013. During the period form now until September 2013, I want to gain a CELTA qualification, as I plan to move to Berlin in September 2013. I would like to have the qualification before I go, as I could build up some teaching experience and also because most of the language schools hire in September/October. I will be writing up my theses over this summer and next Summer, so I am finding it hard to think when I will fit in my CELTA course. Maybe I am just putting too much pressure on myself, as I want to do well in all my courses...

There area number of issues to consider:
(a) Whether I would just be better off waiting until after my two Masters to do the course then, possibly in Berlin, although if I had a CELTA qualification form the UK I think it would look really good.
(b) Where I might do the course in London (I am deciding between International House, UCL and Oxford House).
(c) Whether I might be able to do the course part time or in a sharp burst, full time.

I will discuss these points a little bit now:
(a) I would really love to get all my basic qualifications under my belt before I head to Berlin, but that thought might not be transferrable into reality? My plan is to work teaching English and music in Berlin for a year and to apply for a PhD in Freie University in Berlin in the second year. Do you think I am taking on too much with all this? I am very ambitious and can do anything I put my mind to, but it might be too much for my sanity?

(b) Does anybody have experience of the UCL CELTA course? They only run it full time and not that often, it seems, but the college has an excellent reputation. international House has a very good reputation (from what I have heard) and they offer part time and full time courses,as well as online (but I think I would rather do the full course face to face). However, IH costs a bit more than the other CELTA courses. I was thinking it might be possible to do the course from April to July 2012 part time, as my taught modules for my Masters would be over by that stage - I would just be working on my thesis, although I know there is a lot of work involved in that. Also, does anybody know about the Oxford House course?

(c) I think I've already answered this - part time would probably be the only feasible option if I were able to do it, although UCL offer a full time course for 4 weeks in July 2012, which may be possible, whilst doing my thesis (although probably not advisable!)

I hope I have explained everything clearly. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!!