The IHC DaF (International House Certificate for Teaching German as a Foreign Language) is an intensive initial teacher training qualification for those who wish to teach German to non-native speakers. The 4-week programme prepares candidates to work in private language schools domestically and internationally.
Who Is It For?
The course is suitable for career changers without teaching experience, graduates with university degrees, professionals transitioning from other subjects, and experienced DaF educators who want to formalise and update their credentials. Entry requires an academic background and German language proficiency at C1 level or higher.
Course Structure
The programme totals approximately 170 hours, structured as follows:
- 60 hours of seminars
- 30 hours of trainer-led teaching practice with peer observation
- 10 hours of consultations and guided exercises
- 10 hours of feedback sessions (group and individual)
- 6 hours of observed teaching practice at two proficiency levels
- 4 hours of observation with experienced teachers
- Approximately 40 hours of independent reading, lesson planning and materials development
What the Course Covers
- Language analysis: vocabulary teaching, meaning transmission, form and function, word-formation rules, grammar and phonetics
- Teaching the four language skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking)
- Classroom management and learner needs assessment
- Lesson planning and material adaptation
- DaF-specific didactics and teaching techniques
Certification and Recognition
Graduates receive the International House Certificate for Teaching German (IHC DaF), recognised for adult education language instruction roles in private language schools internationally. In Germany, the qualification also serves as a prerequisite for BAMF DaZ teacher training.
