Meet the Trainer Behind the Success of the SLS TEFL Program:Cillian Hayes - Blog #28

paullambert15
Dec 21, 2025
2 min read

At Salisa Language School, our TEFL program is built on one clear mission:

improving lives through teaching.

Since 1 September 2014, that mission has been driven by the experience, leadership, and passion of one outstanding educator — Cillian Hayes, the lead and sole TEFL trainer of the SLS TEFL Program.

A Decade of Excellence in TEFL Training

For over ten years, Cillian Hayes has been the backbone of TEFL training at Salisa Language School. From the earliest days of the school to the fully licensed and accredited program we proudly offer today, he has trained every TEFL cohort with consistency, professionalism, and a clear focus on real-world teaching success.

In early 2018, Salisa Language School’s own SLS TEFL Program received official accreditation and licensing through the Chonburi Provincial Education Authority, part of Thailand’s Ministry of Education. This marked an important milestone — and Cillian’s experience and input were central to shaping a course that reflects the realities of modern classrooms in Thailand and internationally.

Why Our TEFL Graduates Succeed

What sets the SLS TEFL Program apart is its practical, classroom-ready approach. Under Cillian’s guidance, trainees learn far more than theory. They develop:

Strong classroom and behaviour management skills
Effective lesson planning techniques
Cultural awareness and professional teaching standards
Confidence to step into real classrooms from day one

Cillian’s extensive background as a fully qualified UK teacher, senior leader, and international educator ensures that every graduate leaves the course prepared, supported, and employable.

Proven Results, Global Reach

To date, 250 TEFL trainees from 40 countries have successfully graduated through Salisa Language School. Our graduates include both native and non-native English speakers, many of whom now teach across Thailand, Asia, and beyond.

Graduate feedback consistently highlights Cillian Hayes as a key reason for their success. He is widely respected for his clear instruction, fairness, high standards, and genuine commitment to helping each trainee reach their potential.

More Than a Trainer — A Mentor and Leader

Cillian Hayes brings decades of experience across mainstream education, special education, senior management, and international teaching. His ability to motivate, challenge, and support trainees creates an environment where future teachers thrive.

He leads by example — demonstrating professionalism, adaptability, and a deep respect for both learners and educators. This approach has helped build the SLS TEFL Program’s strong reputation with schools and employers throughout Thailand.

The SLS TEFL Promise

When you choose the SLS TEFL Program, you are not just enrolling in a course — you are learning from a trainer with over 40 years of teaching and leadership experience, and joining a global community of educators shaped by the same high standards.

At Salisa Language School, we don’t just train teachers.