When it comes to job applications, it is not just the qualifications and the experience that matter. The way you present yourself and your application can make a huge difference. In the case of a teacher job application, it is crucial to make an excellent impression right from the very start. Here are ten tips that could help you make a killer teacher job application.
Read the Application Carefully
The job description should be read very carefully, and all the requirements of the job should be noted. This ensures you apply only for jobs aligned with your expertise and qualifications.
If you can, print off a copy of the job description and go through it with a highlighter, highlighting the critical information you can use when writing your statement or cover letter.
As well as the job description, look at the person specification to ensure you tick all the essential requirements. For example, some schools require you to have a degree in the subject you teach, whereas others do not require this. This will also give you further information into what the school may desire as additional skills.
Do Some Research About the School
Knowing more about the school you are applying for will enable you to customise your application to its culture and values. This makes a massive difference to the employer as it reveals that you have taken the time to research and understand their school.
Information you should be researching includes:
School Values, Ethos or Mission Statement
As well as giving you insight into what the school strives for, knowing its values, ethos or mission statement will allow you to tailor your application further. It will show the school that you have done your research into them and taken the time to understand what they are about.
Extra-Curricular or After School Clubs
Taking a look at what the school offers in extra-curricular activities can offer insight into what additional positives you can bring to the table. You might be a computing teacher who enjoys Minecraft so can offer to host a Minecraft club, or you may be a keen gardener who is happy to start a gardening club. These are all great points to add to a personal statement as well as talk about during your interview.
The School Day
Look at how the school day operates so you are familiar with the timetabling when it comes to a look around or interview. This will allow you to know what time the students have their break/lunch, when they have form times, and how many lessons they have a day. This will open up questions such as “What do students do during form time?”, “How do the students/teachers find having a split lunch?” and “Are double lessons offered?” (especially if you are a practical subject).
Be mindful that some schools may change the structure of their day, so make sure the information you find is accurate.
Latest OFSTED Report
It seems like an obvious suggestion, and while most will look at the overall rating of the school they’re applying to, it is worth having a proper read of the entire inspection. Finding areas where the school is struggling are great specification or interview points where you can say what you would bring to the school to improve these areas.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter or Personal Statement
This part of the application is where you can really sell yourself and should be done on an individual application basis. There is no one perfect example of a cover letter or personal statement, and you shouldn’t be sending the exact same one to every school you apply for.
A good cover letter/personal statement could be the difference between getting an interview or not. It is essential to make sure that your cover letter aligns with the job description and the school’s values. It should be well-written and specific, highlighting your qualifications for the job.
The recommended length of a cover letter or personal statement is usually two sides of A4 paper in size 12 font, roughly 2000 words. However, it is essential to note that the school may have its own requirements, so check this before starting to write.
Create an Impressive Application
Most school applications are standard forms you fill out with your details. Your application should be appealing, organised, and easy to read. It should list all your academic qualifications, experiences, and teaching credentials in a concise manner.
Most schools ask for you to email your application form. However, if you decide to handwrite it, be sure to check it for spelling and grammar issues. Always have extra copies of the application form available in case you make any mistakes.
If you can, have someone who can go through your application with a fine toothcomb to ensure everything is perfect.
Highlight Your Experience
Employers are looking for someone with experience in teaching. Highlight your experience in your application form as well as your cover letter/personal statement to tell the reader that you have done the same job before and are confident in delivering quality results.
If you are still in training and this will be your first teaching job, talk about your experiences on placement or any other relevant experience with children, such as volunteering, cover work, TA, or holiday clubs.
Explain Your Teaching Methods
If the cover letter/personal statement allows it, show off your knowledge with regard to teaching methods. Explain the kinds of teaching strategies you often use to achieve learners’ outcomes. This allows the employer to get an idea of how you could best guide students to success.
Ultimately, this is where the interview usually comes in, so do not worry too much if you can’t fit this into your formal application.
Showcase Any Further Qualifications
Being a teacher requires much more than the traditional set of skills today. If you are certified in other areas or have completed online professional development courses, highlight these in your application.
For example, I am a registered nutritionist, so I keep on top of my registration, which adds further value to my role.
Provide Details Of Your Achievements
Your teaching achievements and the impact you have had on students ought to be highlighted in detail. These could include awards or accolades, improvements in student performance on specific assessments, or the design of innovative curriculums.
Provide Any Other Relevant Information
Employers also appreciate additional information about you, such as students’ testimonials about your work. You may be creative about showcasing additional skills, strengths or passion for your work.
Make Sure You Include All The Materials Requested
Every job application will have different material requests, but you need to make sure that you provide all the required material for the job. For example, some applications may require a teaching philosophy or sample lesson plan. Make sure you provide all requested information to avoid disqualification.
A teacher job application is an opportunity to shine and showcase the best that you have to offer. By following these ten tips, you will be able to highlight your strengths as a teacher and secure a coveted teaching job. Take your time with your application, and make sure to follow these guidelines to optimize your chances of landing the job.