about us
About our School
Welcome to International House Johannesburg, the premier destination for English language learning and teaching in Africa. As an affiliate of the globally renowned International House World Organisation (IHWO), we uphold the highest standards of language learning and teacher training, committed to delivering unparalleled quality in education.
Nestled in the heart of Johannesburg, our institution offers students a unique opportunity to learn English in an environment that celebrates the city's multicultural vibrancy. Our dedicated faculty, all Cambridge-certified, bring a passionate and enthusiastic approach to our courses, ensuring an engaging and rewarding educational experience.
We are proud to bear the standard of international recognition. Our teacher training department offers the Cambridge University affiliated CELTA and DELTA English teaching certificates, catering to those aspiring to teach English as a foreign language. These highly regarded qualifications open doors to teaching opportunities worldwide, strengthening our graduates' professional portfolios.
Moreover, IH Johannesburg holds the distinction of being the only independent IELTS (International English Language Testing System) testing centre in South Africa. The IELTS is a vital stepping stone for individuals wishing to immigrate to countries such as Australia, the UK, and Canada, or for those seeking admission to many universities globally.
Further extending our accreditation, we are the sole centre in Gauteng that offers the globally recognised Cambridge ESOL exams. These examinations provide an internationally acknowledged proof of English language proficiency, adding substantial value to our students' academic and professional pursuits.
Our language learning facilities are state-of-the-art, equipped with digital resources, a well-stocked library, and comfortable classrooms. We foster a nurturing and dynamic learning environment, enriched by our vibrant social programme and the unique opportunity to live with English-speaking host families.
At IH Johannesburg, we are more than a language school; we are a beacon of excellence in English language teaching and testing. We invite you to join our diverse community of learners and explore the world of English with us. Let's embark on this enriching journey together.
Our Facilities
- Two computer laboratories with internet access
- Wi-Fi for your mobile device
- A wide range of computer software to practise both General English and English for Specific purposes
- A canteen serving hot and cold food
- Comfortable and well-equipped classrooms
- A library with a wide selection of books, audio readers, magazines and newspapers
Our Teachers
Excellence in teaching and professionalism
Since 1953 International House has been committed to continuing teacher development. We have been at the cutting edge of course design in teacher training programmes and, as a result, our teachers are well known for their creativity and professionalism. All IH Johannesburg teachers have the CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) awarded by Cambridge University. Many are also DELTA (Diploma in English Language Teaching to Adults) qualified. Most of our teachers have taught overseas and have experience with students from many different cultural backgrounds.
Teachers
- Committed, enthusiastic and motivated
- Highly qualified in English Language Teaching
- Experienced in teaching in many different parts of the world
Annie Da Silva
Annie is the Director of Studies and Head of Teacher Training. She is a CELTA trainer, a CELTA Assessor, trains teachers of younger learners, an Aviation English examiner and a Cambridge ESOL examiner. She has been with International House Johannesburg since 1996. She has also taught in the UK, Portugal and Spain.
David Hawkins
David completed his CELTA in June 2011. His teaching experience extends from his days at London University and through his commercial career in both England and South Africa. He has been a part-time teacher at the Language Lab since 2012 and really enjoys seeing the progress made by students at IH.
Jearóid Harris
Jearóid completed his CELTA in October 2011 and began working at IH Language Lab in February 2012. He has an Honours Degree in Dramatic Art from WITS and has worked various jobs including journalist, bureau de change supervisor and barman. Jearóid feels he has found his calling in teaching English as a foreign language and looks forward to a long and fruitful career in the EFL.
Maloba Mbuya
Maloba completed his CELTA in January 2013 and began his teaching career at IH Johannesburg in February 2014 after completing his postgraduate studies at WITS. He is currently the Marketing Manager as well as the Centre Exams Manager for the Cambridge ESOL exams at IH Johannesburg.
Alessia Milanese
Alessia is a CELTA teacher trainer and language teacher. She completed her DELTA in 2015 and has been doing teacher trainer since. Alessia is also an assessor for Aviation English and for Cambridge ESOL exams. Alessia started teaching at IH in 2010. She’s been involved in language teaching in one form or another since leaving University.
Stefanie Nsabue
Stefanie is a CELTA Certified teacher who has been working for IH Johannesburg since 2017. She loves teaching and has learnt a lot from this experience. Stefanie is currently the librarian, CELTA administrator and the social programme coordinator at IH. Her favourite line is “it is what it is”.
Matthew Bailey
Matthew hails from the fair shores of the British Isles. He embarked upon a career in the language of his motherland with exuberance and inspiration. Moving with ease between administrative duties, testing, and the teaching of English, Matthew is equally happy educating his learners in the classroom or hiking in the clean mountain air.
Amos Witten
Amos completed his CELTA in 2017 and leaped into the satisfying and sometimes bewildering world of the teaching and testing of English. With his love of laughter and dedication to his students, he has found his happy place in the IH classroom.
Social Programme
The social programme takes place on the last Friday of each course. This is a chance for all students and staff to socialise, see some interesting places and have some fun.
Some favourites include:
- Bowling
- The Johannesburg Zoo
- Ice-skating
- Gold Reef City
- Soweto Tour
- Crocodile Farm
- White water rafting
- Motecasino Bird Gardens
- Cultural Luncheons
We regularly host a cultural luncheon where students are encouraged to bring a traditional dish from their country, dress in traditional clothing, and bring music from home. This is a great opportunity for students to share their culture and traditions with each other. These days are always popular and a lot of fun.
Woodside provides a high standard of holistic care to people with severe to profound mental and physical disabilities within a stimulating and homely environment.
Their vision is to provide help and hope to discouraged families; love, care and stimulation to its residents; and inspiration, encouragement and training to dedicated staff and students.