Cambridge Delta

For experienced teachers

International House Lisbon combines Cambridge exam expertise with a strong culture of teacher development, delivered through a fully online experience for busy, experienced teachers. Our DELTA Module One with IH Lisbon provides the challenge, professional dialogue, and renewed sense of purpose to re-engage critically with teaching. The course helps you move from knowing the content to applying it confidently under exam conditions, while reconnecting with the broader perspective of ELT as a profession.

Course Length:12 weeks
Dates: 2 Sept – 18 Nov 2026
Format: 100% online
Live Seminars: Wednesdays, 10:00–12:00 (WEST/UK/Portugal time)
Asynchronous Units: 2–3 per week
Exam Practice: 1 task per week with tutor feedback
Final Prep: 1 mock exam + timed tasks

Course price: €950

Trusted worldwide. Respected by schools. Required for leadership.

Why is Delta Module 1 the Gold Standard?

International Benchmark
Accepted worldwide as the leading in-service qualification for experienced language teachers.

Level 7, postgraduate -level standard
Regulated at level 7 on the UK Qualification Framework- above CELTA and comparable in academic level to Master´s study.

Postgraduate – level depth
Requires detailed language analysis, understanding of second language acquisition, and the ability to evaluate methods, test, and materials critically.

Rigorous external assessment
Externally marked exam tasks demand precise analysis and critical evaluation of language, leaner needs, assessment design, and teaching resources, reflecting the high professional standards expect of Delta candidates.

Professional foundation
Provides the theoretical base for the other Delta modules, signalling strong underlying expertise beyond classroom technique.

Career relevance
Often required or strongly recommended for senior teacher, teacher-training and academic management roles.

By preparing with IH Lisbon, you benefit from:

A structured, exam-focused online course aligned precisely to the Delta Module One syllabus
Live input sessions that allow you to collaborate with like-minded teachers from around the world
Exposure to a wide range of teaching contexts, learner profiles, and institutional realities through peer discussion
Tutors who are Delta-qualified, experienced teacher trainers and exam specialists
Clear guidance on how to answer exam tasks effectively, not just what to study
Practical support with exam technique, time management, and common pitfalls
A supportive professional learning community that helps teachers re-energise their practice and thinking

Is the IH Lisbon Delta Module One Preparation Course right for you?

This course is ideal if you:

Have at least one year of full-time ELT experience (or equivalent)
Hold an initial teaching qualification (CELTA or equivalent)
Feel ready for a deeper intellectual challenge beyond day-to-day classroom routines
Want to reconnect with the theory behind your teaching decisions
Are considering roles in academic management, teacher training, or mentoring
Want expert guidance and exam- focused practice rather than relying on self -study alone

If you are an experienced English teacher looking to enhance your theoretical knowledge, improve lesson design, and progress in ELT, this course is a great fit. However, it requires strong self-discipline, analytical skills, and commitment to study.

Delta Module One is often a formal requirement!

Why do reputable educational institutes expect their Academic Managers to have passed Cambridge Delta Module 1?

It’s externally assessed proof of advanced knowledge, not just course attendance or experience.
It certifies deep understanding of language systems and methodology; the core knowledge managers must advise teachers on.
It demonstrates the ability to analyse teaching, materials, and learner needs critically and objectively.
It shows understanding of assessment, testing, and syllabus design, key areas Academic Managers make decisions about.
It signals readiness to make principled pedagogical decisions, not opinion-based ones.
It provides an internationally recognised benchmark, giving schools confidence in a consistent professional standard.
It shows professional commitment and the ability to operate at an advanced academic level.

FAQ's

DELTA Module One is an exam-based qualification that assesses candidates’ theoretical knowledge of English language teaching (ELT). It focuses on language systems and skills, learner and teacher problems, and teaching methodologies.
Candidates should have substantial English language teaching experience, ideally a minimum of two years, and should hold a qualification such as CELTA. High level of English proficiency (C1 or higher) is also recommended.
Assessment is through a written exam consisting of two papers, each lasting 90 minutes. The exam includes tasks such as language analysis, identifying learner errors, and evaluating teaching materials and approaches set and marked by Cambridge Examiners
- Language systems (grammar, phonology, lexis, and discourse)
- Language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking)
- Teaching methods and approaches
- Learner difficulties and needs
- ELT resources and materials evaluation
The DELTA Module One exam is offered twice a year, typically in June and December, at authorised Cambridge centres worldwide, such as IH Torres Vedras and Lisbon. Candidates must register through an approved Cambridge Exams Centre.
Exam fees vary depending on the exams centre and location. Candidates should check with their chosen centre for the exact cost.
Candidates receive one of three grades: Pass with Distinction, Pass with Merit, or Pass. It is also possible to fail the exam.
Our preparation course includes:
- Live input
- Self-study online units
- Exam practice tasks with personalised feedback
- Recommended reading
- Mock exam and timed practice tasks
- Collaborative online tasks
Yes, candidates can retake the exam in a future session. There is no limit regarding the number of attempts.
No, the DELTA qualification does not have an expiry date. Once you pass, the certification is valid for life.
Yes, candidates can take Module One independently and in any order with Modules Two and Three. However, it is often recommended to start with Module One as it provides a theoretical foundation.
Some useful resources include:
- About Language by Scott Thornbury
- An A-Z of ELT by Scott Thornbury
- Cambridge’s official DELTA Module One past papers and examiners’ reports

Taking the online DELTA Module 1 course with IH Lisbon really helped me make sense of what can otherwise feel like an overwhelming amount of content. It’s definitely a challenge, but having a course like this behind you makes it far less daunting.

Alexandra Mendes

The live sessions encouraged deeper thinking and allowed for clarifying doubts. Thanks to the tutors’ expert guidance, I felt confident going into the exam—and improved my overall teaching.

Dave Naserbakht

The online materials were solid and well organised. The live sessions helped me fully understand the exam logic and marking system.

Camilla Anziliero