Maximo Nivel

I would highly recommend getting your TEFL certification with Maximo Nivel in Antigua Guatemala! Wayne was a fantastic TEFL trainer, he provided us the knowledge and resources to become confident teachers. He always made class exciting and engaging. We received valuable experience both observing ESL classrooms and student teaching. Maximo Nivel also placed me in a fantastic home stay with a friendly family near the school. Additionally, there was ample opportunity to improve our Spanish during the program.

I've had in on my bucket list for a while to take a Spanish course while living abroad, so this year when Hollywood went on strike and I had some free months on hand, it felt like the time!

Maximo Nivel was a great touchstone for me as a solo traveler. I was able to arrange my housing and my Spanish classes through them, and book most of my travel through their partner, American Inca Trail.

Some info/additional context for others looking into the program:
Maximo Nivel offers several programs. Some people will be volunteering, some will be taking Spanish, some will be teaching English, and many will be doing a mixture of those things. I'm in my mid-thirties, but since most people are doing this program as a gap year or through their college, the majority age is 16-22. Everyone is super fun and nice, but I did feel a little old sometimes lol.

Spanish Classes:
I never had anyone at my level the 4 weeks I was there, so I had 4 hours private the whole time. Thankfully I was able to meet friends through my travels and housing. My teacher was super friendly and personable. The curriculum is pretty basic and kinda just a grammar dump, but combined with conversation time, I did improve a lot over my 4 weeks.

Housing:
When I read "host family" I thought I'd be having meals with a family, but that's not the setup for most of the hosts. In general, they're housing 8-10 students and you eat with the other students. However, they're also available to chat, give recommendations, and are super nice and helpful. The rooms/accommodations are humble, but clean and safe. The meals prepared were delicious. One note is that I requested a single room and was assigned to shared room when I arrived - Maximo was quick to transfer me when I notified them of the mistake.

Maximo Nivel's TEFL program is a thorough training in how to teach students English through immersion without the use of their native language. At every opportunity, Maximo uses the techniques you will be using as an ESL teacher to teach you what you need to know for certification. This double-dose of the essential techniques is an incredible learning tool that will allow you to independently teach real ESL classes to students by the fourth week of your course.
Students coming to Maximo Nivel will be particularly lucky if they can get Wayne Summerbell as a teacher. He is an extremely competent and approachable instructor. I can't imagine receiving better help while navigating my strengths and weakness to become an independent teacher of English as a second language.

Everyday I’m so happy to be at the daycare with the kids, they teach me so much and vice versa. The highlight of my morning is when I get there I get “ambushed” with hugs and good mornings. Honestly they are the most lovable people in the whole world. The staff at los ositos have been very helpful and welcoming. Also the kids love it if you smile at them it makes them feel happy and gives them like extra energy for the day. But honestly working with the kids makes you have to have extra energy..

I am a Family Nurse Practitioner who decided to make a career change. I thoroughly investigated the different TEFL courses available and chose Maximo Nivel. I completed the hybrid course in August in Antigua, Guatemala due to my demanding job as a Nurse Practitioner. I was definitely challenged! When I attended the on-site portion, I immediately realized the rigor of the program. I was impressed with Wayne Summerbell, the TEFL instructor. He is passionate, knowledgeable, supportive, and gives excellent feedback. I enjoyed the students so much and have found a new passion! This program is amazing! Wayne Summerbell is an asset to Maximo Nivel and honestly, I can say the time I spent in Antigua with him and my fellow students will be some of most cherished memories!