cover letter teaching job uk

Teacher Careers Guide

How to write a teacher cover letter.

‘Dear Hiring Manager…’ Getting started on a cover letter for a teacher or teaching assistant job application can be a daunting task, but it’s an important step in the job application process.

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Tips for writing a successful teacher job cover letter.

A cover letter is your opportunity to make a great first impression and showcase your qualifications, skills, and experience that make you a perfect fit for the position. In this post, we’ll be sharing tips and an example cover letter for both primary and secondary teacher positions in UK schools.

• Tailor your cover letter: Always tailor your cover letter to the specific position and school you are applying for. Use the job description and the school’s mission statement to highlight how your skills and experience align with the position and the school’s values.
• Keep it concise and to the point: A cover letter should be no longer than one page and should only include the most relevant information. Avoid repeating information that is already on your CV and focus on highlighting your key qualifications and achievements.
• Show your personality: A cover letter is your opportunity to show your personality and what makes you stand out from other candidates. Use specific examples to illustrate your passion for teaching and how you can make a positive impact on the school and students.
• Use a professional tone: A cover letter should be written in a professional tone and use formal language. Avoid using slang or overly casual language.
• Proofread and edit: Always proofread and edit your cover letter for spelling and grammar errors. Ask a friend or colleague to review it as well.

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Cover letter examples for teachers, example cover letter for a primary school teacher:.

[Your Name] [Your Address] [Email Address] [Today’s Date] [Headteacher’s Name] [School Name] [School Address]

Dear [Headteacher’s Name],   I am writing to express my interest in the primary school teacher position at [School Name]. I am a highly qualified and experienced primary school teacher with a passion for inspiring and educating young minds.   I have a Bachelor of Education degree and have been teaching for the past 5 years. I have experience teaching across the primary school age range and have a strong understanding of the UK curriculum. I am committed to creating an engaging and stimulating learning environment for my students, and I have a proven track record of motivating and encouraging pupils to make good progress.   I am particularly excited about the opportunity to join [School Name] because of its reputation for providing a high-quality education and its commitment to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment. I align with the school’s values and I am confident that my skills and experience make me a perfect fit for the position.   I am available for an interview at your convenience and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the success of your school. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Example Teacher Job Cover Letter for Secondary School:

[Your Name] [Your Address] [Email Address] [Today’s Date]

[Headteacher’s Name] [School Name] [School Address]

Dear [Headteacher’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the secondary school teacher position for [Subject] at [School Name]. I am a highly qualified and experienced secondary school teacher with a passion for [Subject] and a proven track record of success in the classroom.

I have a Bachelor of Education degree and have been teaching for the past 7 years. I have experience teaching [Subject] at both the GCSE and A-level level, and have a thorough understanding of the UK curriculum. I am committed to creating an engaging and stimulating learning environment for my students, and I have a proven track record of helping them achieve excellent results.

I am particularly excited about the opportunity to join [School Name] because of its reputation for providing a high-quality education and its commitment to academic excellence. I align with the school’s values and I am confident that my skills and experience make me a perfect fit for the position.

In addition, I am also experienced in leading extra-curricular activities such as [club/activity name], this experience has helped me to develop strong leadership and communication skills. I am also a strong believer in using technology in the classroom, and I am proficient in using various educational tools and software that can enhance student learning.

I am available for an interview at your convenience and would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the success of your school. Thank you for considering my application.

[Your Name]

By following these tips and using the example cover letters as a guide, you can create a cover letter that will help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of landing a teaching job in UK schools.

Remember to tailor your cover letter to the specific position and school, highlight your qualifications and achievements, and show your passion for teaching.

Good luck with your job search!

Just getting started? Find out how to write your first

When applying for a teaching assistant position, crafting a compelling cover letter is essential to stand out from other candidates. Just like cover letters for teachers, a well-written cover letter for teaching assistants should highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and passion for education.

At Prospero Teaching, we understand the significance of a strong cover letter, which is why we provide valuable tips that apply to both teachers and teaching assistants.

We recommend checking out our comprehensive teaching assistant guide, where we delve into the top skills schools look for in TAs and provide cover letter examples tailored to the teaching assistant role in the UK.

Whether you’re a seasoned educator or a new teaching assistant hopeful, our guidance will help you create an outstanding cover letter that showcases your potential and dedication in the classroom.

How else can we help?

Find your next role, return to teaching careers guide, follow us on social media, refer a friend, view our latest teaching vacancies.

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How to write a great covering letter

Application and interview, tes editorial.

Writing a good covering letter could make all the difference to your job application. With so many candidates to choose from, first impressions are really important, so it’s crucial to get the covering letter right. 

Education careers expert John Howson recommends beginning the letter with a powerful statement: “Job applicants need to provoke the reader’s interest,” he says. “However, what you leave out is just as important as what you put in, in order to keep the letter succinct and punchy.”

“The competitive nature of the teaching profession means first impressions are imperative,” says James Innes, managing director of The CV Centre. “Many applications may be judged solely on the strength of the covering letter.”

WATCH: What to include in your covering letter

The length of the covering letter is normally specified in the job advertisement. However, if there is no limit set, your letter shouldn’t be longer than two sides of A4 and should be easy to read. Use a standard font and break the main body into chunks so it can be skim-read.

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Get the formalities right

If your covering letter needs to be written and attached, rather than included in an online form, you need to get the formal stuff right.

Include your name and address on the right-hand side. On the left, put the date, name of recipient (if you’re unsure, telephone the school and check the spelling) and the address of the school. It’s better to be accused of being too formal rather than not formal enough, so begin with “Dear Mr/Ms…”.

Start with a strong statement

Your covering letter should begin with a strong statement outlining why you want to apply for the job and why at this particular school. For example, if the school has won a number of awards in certain areas, you could mention this. Or, if you have the skills and experience to address some of the problems the school faces, then highlight them here.

It’s important to open with something that will grab the reader’s attention. Employers probably won’t have time to read every word, so it’s important you start strong.

WATCH: What are the 'must includes' for your covering letter?

Show you know the school

Having touched on some school specifics in your opening statement, now is your chance to really go to town. Show that you’ve done your research and you genuinely think you’re a good fit for the role.

How does the school’s vision align with your own? Look at the language the school uses in the job description and try to include a few buzzwords.

Pick out some CV highlights

Don’t assume that your CV will automatically get read. Pull out some key achievements and link them to specific requirements in the job description.

As well as the career aspects, don’t forget to highlight any volunteer work or personal interests that have relevance. This is your chance to show your well-rounded credentials and elevate yourself above the other applicants.

Go out on a high

If your potential employer has got to the bottom of your covering letter, you’re in with a chance. Finish with something positive and upbeat. Let them know when you’ll be available for interview (and for work), and that you look forward to hearing from them.

Before you hit ‘send’

Make sure that you have carefully checked for spelling mistakes and grammatical errors. This is a common complaint from school HR departments, yet is easy to fix. It might be useful to have the opinion of someone who is already in the job role that you are applying for, so don’t be afraid to ask a friend or colleague to read over your letter.

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Primary Teacher Cover Letter: Examples & Templates

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

1. Primary Teacher Cover Letter Examples

Example #1: experienced primary school teacher cover letter , example #2: new primary school teacher cover letter , 2. how to write a primary teacher cover letter, 1. format your primary school teacher cover letter, 2. address your primary school teacher cover letter, elementary school teacher cover letter header , 3. say which job you’re applying to and introduce yourself, primary teacher cover letter sample: introduction, 4. make your case in the main body of your primary teacher cover letter, sample cover letter for primary teacher jobs: middle paragraph, 5. explain your teaching motivation, primary school teacher cover letter sample: third paragraph, 6. request an interview & leave a call to action, sample primary teacher cover letter: call to action & closing, about resumelab’s editorial approach, was it interesting here are similar articles.

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Stepping into the world of education and wishing to mould young minds? Your initial approach to this goal starts with drafting a compelling application letter for teacher positions. This letter is your first impression, your introduction, and your pitch all rolled into one. Crafting the perfect application letter for teacher roles might seem like a daunting task, especially if you're new to the job application process, but fret not! This guide is here to walk you through, with examples, insights, and helpful hints to make you shine.

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Cover Letter for a Teaching Job

The teaching job is more than just imparting knowledge; it's about inspiring the next generation, and your application letter should reflect this. What you need to keep in mind is that your cover letter will come together with your teacher's CV . Creating a nice-looking CV will add more value to your teacher's cover letter and boost your job application.

Have a look at our basic cover letter for a teaching job to get an idea of what yours should look like. Remember: personalising your cover letter is a must! Don’t use copy-paste text from other examples.

If you're diving into the world of education, starting as a teaching assistant is a commendable step. In your teaching assistant cover letter:

Showcase Collaborative Skills: Emphasise your ability to work with teachers, understanding their lesson plans and aiding in its delivery.

Highlight Patience & Support: Illustrate your knack for supporting students who may need extra help, showcasing your patience and understanding.

Mention Relevant Coursework: If you've undergone any training or courses relevant to education, even if they were brief, ensure they find a spot in your letter.

Are you a teacher-to-be and your work experience doesn’t include teaching jobs? That shouldn’t worry you! You can browse a teaching assistant CV with no experience , and match it with your no-experience teaching assistant cover letter!

Application Letter For An English Teacher

When crafting a cover letter for an English teacher role, there's an added pressure. After all, English teachers are expected to be proficient in the language and its intricacies.

Spotlight on Language Mastery: Highlight your mastery of English, not just in terms of grammar, but in literary appreciation, composition skills, and more.

Include Literary Passion: Share your favourite authors, genres, or literary periods, showing your depth and breadth in the subject.

Teaching Methods: Detail your unique approach to teaching English. Perhaps you use innovative tools or engaging classroom activities. Make sure to mention them.

Cover Letter For a Primary Teacher

A cover letter for a primary teacher has its unique elements. Primary teaching isn’t just about subjects; it's about laying foundational stones.

Emphasise Holistic Development: Talk about your understanding of the comprehensive growth of a child—cognitive, emotional, and social.

Engaging Teaching Methods: Whether it's using props, storytelling, or art, primary students learn best when engaged. Share your innovative methods.

Classroom Management: With young children, classroom management is key. Offer insights into how you ensure a structured yet fun environment.

After sending your teacher's cover letter, consider preparing for possible teacher interview questions . You never know when the employer will react to your job application, and you don’t want to be caught off guard!

Cover Letter For a Physical Education Teacher

Physical education is about physical fitness, teamwork, and discipline. Your cover letter for a physical education teacher role should encompass:

Sports & Fitness Passion: Share your personal journey in sports or fitness. You may have played a sport or have a fitness regimen you're passionate about.

Teamwork Over Winning: Emphasise the values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship over mere winning.

Safety & Wellbeing: Detail how you ensure student safety during physical activities while pushing their limits.

To round it off, always remember that teaching is both an art and a science. And while guides like these offer a structured approach, your unique voice and passion are what will truly make your application stand out. So, as you embark on this fulfilling journey, know that every cover letter for a teaching job you draft is a step closer to making a difference in countless lives.

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• Cover Letter Examples

How to Write a Teacher Cover Letter (+ Examples)

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Being a teacher means much more than just teaching facts and figures. It's about shaping the future by instilling values and intellect in young minds. 

You have the power to set a positive influence in children's emotional, moral, and intellectual development. It may not always be apparent, but the impression you leave on your students can last a lifetime.  

If your job search is starting to feel like being stuck in detention, it’s time to polish your teacher cover letter. With this article, your cover letter will stand out like a straight-A student. You'll learn how to write a teacher cover letter that gets you the job, based on ready-to-use teaching cover letter examples.

Use the LiveCareer cover letter builder and your cover letter will write itself. Choose a professional template, answer a few easy questions and the creator will generate a professional cover letter for you with just one click.

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Looking for other cover letter examples? See our guides for:

• Administrative Assistant Cover Letter
• PhD Cover Letter
• Research Assistant Cover Letter
• Teaching Assistant Cover Letter
• Training Contract Cover Letter

Haven't found what you're looking for? See all our cover letter examples .

Teacher Cover Letter Example

Cameron Holden

29 Asfordby Rd

07533322212

[email protected]

Headteacher

Highstead Academy

1 School Road

August 5, 2021

RE: KS3 and KS4 Art Teacher Position

Dear Mrs Smith,

Being an Art & Design teacher with 5+ years of experience delivering KS3 and KS4 curriculum to classes of up to 31, I am confident I will excel in the role at Highstead Academy. During my tenure at Strophill School, the A*-C attainment for my subjects increased from 65 to 84%, and the school became rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. I am keen to translate this experience to deliver an efficient curriculum for your new arts programme.

When I found this opening, I was excited, as I had recently read about the arts-based curriculum you will deliver with the Learning Innovations Foundation funding for research into more vocational arts education. I have a proven track record of improving the outcomes of at-risk youth through arts programmes, I collaborated with colleagues to identify at-risk children and create a programme of break-time and after-school Art sessions to let them explore their talents. This resulted in 21% more students choosing to study Art & Design at GCSE, 20% more at A-Level, several local art and photo competitions taken by my students, as well as a decrease in disruptions and conflict behaviour. I have an extensive background in Child Psychology which I have confirmed with an accredited top-up course from University of Exeter, and I incorporate modern calming and mindfulness techniques as part of ‘the artistic process’.

My background in creating arts initiatives and working with at-risk youth make me confident I can step up to the challenge of helping Highstead Academy create a truly innovative and effective arts education for at-risk children.

When would be a good time for us to have a meeting or a call? I would love to tell you the story of how the mindfulness techniques I taught the kids then led them to start a lunchtime meditation club.

Kind regards,

How to write a cover letter for a teaching job?

Your cover letter should demonstrate your passion for teaching and explain how your teaching approach and methods align with the school's mission and values. Focus on qualifications and experiences that make you an excellent candidate for a given role. Your cover letter must use formal language and a professional and clean format to maintain clearance and readability.

This teacher cover letter consistently comes top of the class. Now, here’s a quick lesson in  writing your own cover letter :

1. Use a professional header in your teacher cover letter 

Address your teaching cover letter as any other business letter: contact details including email and phone—on the right. Below, the hiring person’s or headteacher’s details—on the left. Right under, write the date and subject of the letter, which would be the title of the position you’re applying to.

I recommend that you address the headteacher by their surname with a formal salutation, not forgetting to use the appropriate academic title.

Teaching cover letter—header

Dear Mrs Smith

You can adjust every cover letter created in the builder to meet the job requirements. Choose the name of your profession and the company to which you’re applying, and the LiveCareer cover letter builder will automatically adapt the content for you. Create a cover letter faster than you ever thought possible and apply for the job in record time.

2. Hook them into your teaching cover letter

According to NAHT , there are only 0.3%, or around 1350 teachers being hired a year, so you need to make every application count. The opening paragraph of your cover letter  for a teaching job must make them read on. Sum up your years of experience, explain your motivation for joining, and back it up with your strongest achievement.

Don’t waste space writing what position you’re applying to—the subject line is for that. Go straight into explaining why you’re a very strong candidate for this position. I encourage you to make this paragraph between 40 and 80 words. 

Teacher cover letter—opening example

3. highlight achievements in your cover letter for teaching jobs.

The main body of your cover letter should include your achievements and results, and also the depth of your experience. See not only the job ad, but also the school website for what’s important to them, and relate your experience to it. 

This makes up the majority of your teacher cover letter, between 120 and 200 words. 2 to 4 most key points should be sufficient to pique their interest and have something to talk about in the interview. Back up your performance with numbers where possible.

Let me show you this teacher cover letter example:

Teacher cover letter—main paragraph example

You don’t have to create any content yourself. The LiveCareer cover letter generator will automatically suggest the best content for your cover letter with ready-made examples and expert tips.

4. Conclude your teaching cover letter with a call to action

By this stage, you have probably aced the test—an interview being your reward. However, if you haven’t, the last paragraph is space for another A* argument, or to tie up all the other arguments and evidence. Relate it directly to the challenges at the new school.

Explain how your previous experience shows that you’re going to handle their reality with ease. Ask for an interview under the guise of discussing an issue further. This should be 60-80 words total. Sign off on your cover letter formally . Don’t send it just yet!

Teacher cover letter—example closing

5. use a professional teacher cover letter format.

If you see the best cover letter examples for teachers, they all have one thing in common—a professional, organised look. They also all fit on one page. Follow these easy rules to create a teaching  cover letter structure that’s easy on the eyes: 

Teaching cover letter length rules

How long should a cover letter be?

• 200-350 words total
• Half a page of A4, up to 1 page of A4 .
• 1st paragraph—between 60 and 80 words
• 2nd paragraph—between 120 and 200 words
• 3rd paragraph—between 40 and 60 words

Match the CV style

The style of your teacher CV and a teaching cover letter should match—as they form one document together. It is recommended to use a simple template for enhanced readability.

One cover letter for one school

One school can vary wildly from another. They have different cultures, different attitudes, different problems. A bit of research will make it possible for you to target your teacher cover letter to their expectations. During this process, you will also understand a bit more about where you would like to work yourself. 

Pick a readable font

Ever get an essay written in Comic Sans? Doesn’t really matter what the content is, it doesn’t look right. I recommend that you choose a sensible font like Noto, Didot or Arial, and stay between sizes 10 and 12.

Use even margins

For a neat cover letter layout , set even margins on all sides, 1-inch minimum. If your cover letter is on the short side , you can frame it with a 1.5 inch margin.

Use white space 

Apply 1.15 line spacing in your teacher application letter . Leave a line between each section, and between paragraphs. Lines of space between sections and paragraphs will direct the reader’s eyes. If your text is getting blocky, consider using bullet points for key achievements.

Save in PDF

One last piece of advice from myself. Save your teaching  cover letter in the PDF format to protect your formatting , unless the job posting specifies otherwise.

A cover letter alone simply won’t be enough—you need an impactful CV, too. Create your CV in minutes. Just follow our wizard and fill in every CV section with ready-made content. Get started by choosing a professional CV template .

Got more questions on how to write a cover letter for teaching jobs? Any insider tips? Did you find the teacher cover letter examples helpful? Let me know in a comment!

How we review the content at LiveCareer

Our editorial team has reviewed this article for compliance with Livecareer’s editorial guidelines . It’s to ensure that our expert advice and recommendations are consistent across all our career guides and align with current CV and cover letter writing standards and trends. We’re trusted by over 10 million job seekers, supporting them on their way to finding their dream job. Each article is preceded by research and scrutiny to ensure our content responds to current market trends and demand.

About the author

Since 2013, the LiveCareer UK team has shared the best advice to help you advance your career. Experts from our UK editorial team have written more than one hundred guides on how to write the perfect CV or cover letter.

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CV and cover letter examples for teachers

If you’re struggling to write a CV or cover letter for teaching roles, here are some examples to help you stand out, whether you’re a headteacher or NQT

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You’ve heard about the school that’s just right for you. What next? What can you do with your application that will make you a certainty for the short list?

If you need some inspiration on what to include in your teaching CV and cover letter, here are our helpful guides – just remember not to copy them as exact templates.

Cover letter example:

Dear Ms Name,

As a [newly-qualified/experienced] teacher with [number] years experience in a [primary/secondary] school setting, I feel I would be well-suited for the role of [job title] at [name of school]. Please find my CV attached.

The nature of my work in education has prepared me for this position. My interest in [...] stimulated me to lead a project on [...] My role here was to […]. As part of this, I had to liaise with [...] meaning that I have developed skills in [...]. I faced some challenges along the way, such as [...] and overcame them by [...]. The impact of the project overall was [...]. This was measured by/ has been evidenced in [...].

In addition, I have successfully employed a [...] approach/ strategy when teaching and found that this led to many positive student outcomes, such as […]. A key part of my career is helping students reach their potential, which I work towards by focusing on [...] when teaching.

As shown by my experience in schools, I am enthusiastic about education and always strive to do the best for my students. I am able to take on responsibility for learning and have experience of successfully managing a class. I also have the enthusiasm and determination to ensure that I make a success of this role.

Thank you for taking the time to consider this application and I look forward to hearing from you in future.

Yours sincerely,

CV template:

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CV and cover letter tips:

Always make sure that your CV is up to date, and relevant to the needs of the employer. In teaching, it’s not that you’re going to be one of many recruits shuffled around until you find your niche – you’re a one-off, in your own classroom, responsible for your own pupils from day one. Any CV or cover letter you send, whether speculative or for an advertised position, needs to be sympathetic to each different context.

Your cover letter, the person specification, and the job description are pieces of a complex jigsaw. Sometimes, these pieces need more context and that’s where your research comes in. Look up Ofsted reports, local news reports, school performance information. All these pieces combined make the picture on the box, and you need to take the whole thing into account. Employers know there might be no ideal match, but to get yourself on a shortlist, and be invited for interview, you need to present yourself as close a fit as you can.

If you’re an NQT or RQT (newly or recently qualified teacher), you might think that you don’t have the skills and experience to make strong applications – but this certainly isn’t the case. Schools always need new recruits, and it’s part of their role to develop you. Show them your potential by relating what you have learned from your experiences so far, where the challenges were and how you overcame them, how you’ve made a difference and what you feel you can offer on a personal as well as professional level.

More established colleagues will have more experiences to draw on, but be careful not to fall into the trap of talking about one year’s experience repeated fifteen times – you still need to show a sense of development and further potential. Having a few years’ teaching experience to call on can help your confidence levels, but remember that you’re expected to show that you had an impact, that your own initiatives or methods made changes happen and that those changes became embedded in practice. Explain a problem that you were aware of, how you intervened and what the situation is now like as a result. Be prepared to link this to the ultimate aim of improved pupil outcomes – it’s essentially how all teachers are judged.

The higher up the professional ladder you intend to go, the more guidance and feedback you need on the application you’re about to submit. Friends and contacts in similar positions to the one you’re applying for can offer insights that official descriptions can’t. Don’t stop there, though – talk to people in more senior positions. What would they be looking for if they were recruiting for a similar role? Ask for feedback on your letter, and from people who won’t just give you an easy time. Once you’ve got that feedback, trust it. Be prepared to start again, if necessary, so allow time within the process for this to happen. Dig deep into your motives, your letter needs to reflect the factors in education that really drive you. Think about what makes you smile at work and make sure you put that in.

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• Cover Letter Examples
• Teaching Assistant (TA) Cover Letter Example & Guide

Teaching Assistant (TA) Cover Letter Example & Guide

Go straight to the head of the class with our guide to writing a teaching assistant cover letter that’s worthy of an Ofsted outstanding rating.

As a teaching assistant, you’re used to providing one on one support to students. With your help they can reach their full potential but now it’s time for you to get something back. You’re about to get expert one on one support to reach your full potential in your search for the best TA jobs.

And the lesson we’ll explore together is how to write a job-winning teaching assistant cover letter. We’ve even got a sample cover letter for teaching assistant jobs that you can adapt and use to write your own.

Let’s get the lesson started.

Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from  20+ professional cover letter templates  that match your CV. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.

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Teaching Assistant Cover Letter for a CV— See more cover letter examples and create your cover letter here .

Teaching Assistant Cover Letter Example

65 New Farm Close

6th July 2020

Timothy Perkins

Head Teacher

The Beeches School

20 Fortnum Road

Dear Mr Perkins,

As a passionate advocate for supporting the needs of children with learning disabilities I was delighted to see an opening for the role of SEN teaching assistant at The Beeches. It would be an incredible opportunity to be able to use my calm, outcome focussed approach to help maximise your students’ learning outcomes.

By offering support individualised to the needs of each student I have helped provide support to five students with learning difficulties this year alone in my current role. All of them have had improvements in behaviour and engagement and improved their test results by a minimum of 10% each. I pride myself on working with parents and teaching colleagues to achieve the best learning results for each student I work with.

I am aware of The Beeches’ reputation for excellence with a series of ‘Outstanding’ assessments from Ofsted and a special mention of the stellar support given to SEN students. I would be proud to further develop my skills in such an environment and learn from the best practice you have developed.

Thank you for taking the time to review my application. I’d be happy to speak to you at your convenience so we can discuss how my calm, level-headed approach is particularly effective in assisting students with behavioural issues.

Yours sincerely,

You’ve just seen a great cover letter sample for teaching assistant jobs, and next you’ll get a step-by-step guide to write your own. But remember—

Every good teaching assistant cover letter needs a teaching assistant CV to pair with, and we’ve got a writing guide for it here: Teaching Assistant CV Example & Writing Guide

And we’ve got a great selection of cover letter guides for other jobs too.

• Sales Assistant Cover Letter Example & Guide
• Retail Cover Letter Example & Guide
• Cover Letter for an Internship Example & Guide
• Graduate Cover Letter Example & Guide
• Speculative Cover Letter Example & Guide
• Motivation Letter Example & Guide
• Career Change Cover Letter Example & Guide
• Customer Service Cover Letter Example & Guide
• Graphic Design  Cover Letter Example & Guide
• Consulting Cover Letter Example & Guide
• Architecture Cover Letter Example & Guide

Cover Letter Template for a Teaching Assistant

Now here’s how to write a cover letter for teaching assistant positions.

1. Begin With a Neatly Arranged Cover Letter Format

The secret of an efficient classroom is planning and preparation. A well-organised lesson plan is a must. It’s the same when writing a cover letter, careful planning and preparation gives you the best end result. Here’s how to ensure your cover letter is as well planned as your lessons.

• Use a cover letter template that matches your CV . Spacing should be single or 1.15 and you need to have one-inch margins on all sides of the page. 
• Choose an easy-to-read font, the best fonts for a CV are perfect for cover letters too. We’d recommend a sans serif font as they’ve been proven to be easier to read when displayed on a screen . Calibri, Tahoma and Verdana all look great.
• And keep the best cover letter length in mind. You should never exceed one page.

Read more: How to Create The Perfect Cover Letter Format  

2. Write Your Teaching Assistant Cover Letter Header

This is the very first part of your cover letter and it needs to follow standard UK business letter rules. A little attention to detail will ensure you’ve got it right. Here’s what to do.

• Get the cover letter address right. Put your personal details first, making sure the text is right-aligned. Then leave a space and write the date, using the proper format e.g. 7th July 2020. 
• Then you need to change to left alignment and write the hiring manager’s personal details, and do try to find out their name and use it.

And finding out the hiring manager’s name is genuinely important. Using ‘To Whom it May Concern’ is impersonal and outdated. If you use the hiring manager’s name though you’ll instantly activate their brain and make them pay more attention to your letter. Just phone the school and find out who’s responsible for reviewing TA applications.

Read more: How to Address a Cover Letter  

3. Start the Lesson With a Personal Greeting and an Impressive First Paragraph

Think of hiring managers as an unruly group of pupils, you’ve got to work hard to grab their attention right at the outset of the lesson. Or in this case, the first paragraph of your teaching assistant cover letter. Here’s how to do it.

• Use the standard formal letter greeting. ‘Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name]’ or ‘Dear Hiring Manager’ if you don’t know their name. 
• Name the role you’re applying for in your first sentence, this makes your intentions clear and shows you’ve gone to the effort to target your cover letter to the job.
• And then, include a hook to impress the hiring manager. Mention an impressive professional accomplishment that shows your abilities as a TA and you’ll be sure of having their attention.

Read more: How to Write Your Cover Letter Opening  

4. Show That You’re the Perfect Candidate in Your Teaching Assistant Cover Letter

Next, reinforce what you’ve already taught the hiring manager. Use the second paragraph to add even more proof of your expertise as a teaching assistant. 

• Before you write this paragraph, plan it as thoroughly as a good lesson. Do your research by reading the job advert and noting all of the experience and skills it mentions.
• Then pitch your own experience and accomplishments to match with what the job requires. Make it even more convincing by using numbered achievements and accomplishment statements to structure your sentences.

5. Show How Much You Want the Job

The third paragraph is where you need to show why you want this teaching assistant job at this school. It’s especially important to show passion for the career when you’re writing a teaching assistant cover letter with no experience. It shows you’ll be an enthusiastic and committed learner in your new career. Here’s how to do it.

• Show your enthusiasm and energy by researching the employer and finding out something positive about them that has inspired you to want to be part of the team.
• And mention how you can help to solve their challenges and contribute to their future growth.

Read more: How Long Should a Cover Letter Be?  

6. End With a Call to Action and Say Thank You

It’s almost time for the bell to ring, but we need to keep up the pace with our last paragraph. Time to make sure our student doesn’t forget a single thing they’ve been taught. Here’s how to end the lesson properly.

• Increase your chances of an interview with a call to action. All you need to do is ask the hiring manager to get in touch with you so you can discuss the TA role further.
• Say thank you too. Apart from being good manners, gratitude has been proven to be the ‘ social glue ’ that strengthens relationships. The end result is that the hiring manager will view your application more favourably if you simply say thank you.
• You can add another professional achievement here to help seal the deal, or for a teaching assistant cover letter with no experience you could mention your career goals.
• And you really don’t have to say ‘ please find attached my CV ’.

Read more: How to Finish a Cover Letter

7. Sign Off in Style

And last of all, your teaching assistant cover letter sign-off. Again, follow standard UK business letter formatting and you’ll be set.

• Put your full name in your sign-off and add a digital copy of your handwritten signature.
• Sign off with ‘Yours sincerely’ if you used the hiring manager’s name and ‘Yours faithfully’ if your letter was addressed anonymously.
• And include your contact details in your signature if your cover letter is being sent as the body of an email.

If you’d like a more comprehensive guide to writing your cover letter, then read more here: How to Write Your Cover Letter: Complete Guide

And now that you’ve just written the perfect cover letter, make sure you write the perfect CV to accompany it.

When making a CV in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building your CV here .

When you’re done, Zety’s CV builder will score your CV and tell you exactly how to make it better.

Class dismissed! Thanks for reading. If you’d like advice for specialist areas such as writing a cover letter for special needs teaching assistant jobs then please ask in the comments section. Anything at all, please ask and I’ll be happy to help.

About Zety’s Editorial Process

Our editorial team has thoroughly reviewed this article to ensure it follows Zety’s editorial guidelines . Our dedication lies in sharing our expertise and providing you with actionable career advice that offers you real value. Every year, the quality of our content attracts 40 million readers to our site. But that’s not all – we conduct original research to gain a detailed understanding of the labour market. We take pride in being cited by top universities and leading media outlets in the UK and worldwide .

• https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1105535.pdf
• https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainres.2006.07.121
• https://ggsc.berkeley.edu/images/uploads/GGSC-JTF_White_Paper-Gratitude-FINAL.pdf

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25 Teacher Cover Letters Examples To Help You Get Hired

Your guide to a killer cover letter that will get you that interview.

Whether you are sending out resumes hoping to land your first teaching job or looking to shift to a new school or district, one fact remains the same: All the best credentials, experience, and passion will go unnoticed without a strong cover letter. The main rule? Sell yourself the way a publicist would. Cover letters aren’t a time for modesty. They’re a time to highlight your accomplishments and make your passion for teaching known. Below you’ll find our tips for creating the best cover letter possible and our top teacher cover letter and CV examples.

3 top tips for crafting a teacher CV or cover letter:

Keep it short and sweet..

You’ve only got about 30 seconds to capture a hiring director’s attention, so start with what we call “the elevator pitch.” Imagine you have the time between the elevators closing on one floor and opening again on another floor to sell yourself. Instead of rehashing everything on your resume, use the space to craft a paragraph or two that will convince them you are a standout candidate and are worth moving on to the next step.

Emphasize why you’re a great match.

Read the job description and find the overlap between the skills you bring to the table and the skills they need. If the job description calls for certain qualities or uses specific language, repeat them in your cover letter! The ultimate goal for your cover letter is to say, “You’ve got a problem? I’m the ideal person to solve it.” Be professional and use concrete examples.

Individualize!

Tailor each and every cover letter to fit the specific school, district, and job for which you’re applying. Research the school and its culture. That way, you can address their expectations and also use specific examples of achievements in your history to show why you’re the right candidate for the position.

Top teacher cover letter examples:

1. first-time teacher.

This letter is friendly and enthusiastic. It uses concrete examples and experiences related to student teaching while showcasing exactly why the applicant wants to become a teacher.

Learn more: First-time teacher at LiveAbout

2. Another first-time teacher example

This version of a cover letter calls out the specific skills the applicant has and hopes to bring to the table.

Learn more: Another first-time teacher example at OLAS

3. Experienced elementary teacher

Not every teacher stays in their job until retirement. If you’re looking for a new position, your cover letter should clearly state your experience. This example also makes it obvious that the candidate researched the new district and discusses why she would be excited to join. The candidate also includes references at the bottom of the cover letter.

Learn more: Experienced elementary teacher at Monster

4. Another experienced elementary teacher example

It doesn’t hurt to have additional examples! This teacher cover letter clearly showcases the school’s goals and addresses how this teacher specifically can help. She did her research!

Learn more: Another experienced elementary teacher at LiveAbout

5. Summer school teacher

As school lets out for summer, many teachers still need to earn an income. With competition tight, this cover letter stands out as the candidate states her qualifications as well as her ability to train other staff members.

Learn more: Summer school teacher at Cover Letters and Resume

6. Assistant teacher

With this letter, the applicant took a slightly different approach. The letter breaks down the most relevant accomplishments into bullet points. Those will jump out at the hiring manager, who will likely scan through a ton of applications.

Learn more: Assistant teacher at LiveCareer

7. Special education teacher

This letter is similar to a standard teacher cover letter, yet it also stresses the specific qualifications and experiences of a special ed teacher. For example, this candidate included how they modified the curriculum to meet the needs of a wide range of learners. In this particular cover letter example, the teacher was looking to move into a leadership role, so this serves as a template for someone looking to transition into management as well.

Learn more: Special education teacher at JobHero

8. School guidance counselor

This cover letter emphasizes the applicant’s academic achievements, especially with regard to the psychology education required for many counselor positions. It also talks about the characteristics that make this person the ideal candidate for this position.

Learn more: School guidance counselor at Great Sample Resume

9. Another school guidance counselor example

We liked this cover letter because it pulls specific metrics that are not in the resume—including the number of students the candidate worked with and the funding obtained for special needs programs.

Learn more: School guidance counselor at Zety

10. Library media specialist

This cover letter oozes confidence! As with any specialist position, the candidate hones in on how her specific skills and background make her qualified for this role.

Learn more: Library media specialist at LiveCareer

11. High school English teacher

This cover letter covers a lot of ground. It points out the candidate’s strengths for teaching and assessing knowledge in the specific subject. It also presents the special techniques the candidate uses to teach students at the high school level.

Learn more: High school English teacher at Great Sample Resume

12. Technology teacher

Taking a very professional approach to writing a cover letter shows that the contender is serious. This letter points out the specific skills that best prove why this candidate is a great fit for the position.

Learn more: Technology teacher at LiveCareer

13. Music teacher

A music teacher requires knowledge of multiple instruments and a love of music and music theory. This cover letter showcases the candidate’s background and why they feel music is an important part of the education experience.

Learn more: Music teacher at Best Sample Resume

14. Drama teacher

Drama teachers often go above and beyond just teaching a class. They host auditions and rehearsals for after-school productions. This cover letter shows the candidate’s knowledge of curriculum, directing a show, and even marketing efforts.

Learn more: Drama teacher at Great Sample Resume

15. Foreign language teacher

Foreign language teachers need to display their knowledge of the particular language as well as showcase how well they can immerse students in the culture. This cover letter discusses the teacher’s plans to incorporate curriculum as well as help facilitate the induction of students into the German Honor Society.

Learn more: Foreign language teacher at JobHero

16. Sports coach

This cover letter has a terrific opening line that sets the candidate apart from the get-go. It also clearly covers the candidate’s qualifications, from knowledge and experience to attitude and philosophy. This cover letter example also works well for PE teachers.

Learn more: Sports coach at JobHero

17. ESL teacher

Teaching English as a second language obviously requires a distinct skill set. This cover letter showcases key communication skills and lets the hiring director know the specific language fluency.

Learn more: ESL teacher at LiveCareer

18. Math teacher

Touching on the highlights of their resume without rehashing it completely (who wants to read something twice?), this candidate points out their qualifications and certifications as well as their versatility in teaching different types of students.

Learn more: Math teacher at A+ Resumes for Teachers

19. Pre-K teacher

Teaching pre-K takes patience, creativity, and flexibility. This cover letter effectively highlights the candidate’s communication and problem-solving skills as well as the personal qualities that make them great at their job.

Learn more: Pre-K teacher at LiveCareer

20. Business teacher

This cover letter provides excellent background about the teacher in a way that’s appropriate for business. It shares the necessary information clearly and concisely.

Learn more: Business teacher at LiveCareer

21. International school teacher

Working at an international school requires a certain skill set, and this letter highlights the teacher’s language skills as well as their ability to create effective lessons on relevant topics while providing students with the support they need to succeed.

Learn more: International school teacher at LiveCareer

22. Head teacher cover letter

Serving as a head teacher involves a unique blend of leadership and innovation. This cover letter showcases the candidate’s exceptional communication and leadership skills, essential for coordinating with staff, students, and stakeholders to cultivate a thriving educational environment.

Learn more: Head teacher cover letter example at QwikResume

23. Kindergarten teacher

A kindergarten teacher plays a foundational role in a child’s educational journey, blending creativity with core educational principles. This cover letter highlights the candidate’s proficiency in developing engaging lesson plans and materials tailored to young learners, ensuring the fundamentals of various subjects are delivered in a manner that is both enjoyable and educational.

Learn more: Kindergarten teacher at Kickresume

24. Secondary teacher

Secondary teachers help shape the young minds of students as they transition into adulthood. This cover letter exemplifies the candidate’s adeptness in crafting comprehensive lesson plans and teaching materials that cater to the diverse needs of teens, ensuring that the curriculum resonates with their evolving interests and capabilities.

Learn more: Secondary teacher at Resumaker

25. Art teacher

An art teacher embodies the intersection of creativity and education, nurturing students’ artistic talents and encouraging their expressive capabilities. This cover letter highlights the candidate’s proficiency in designing stimulating lesson plans that explore a wide range of artistic mediums and techniques, from traditional painting and drawing to digital art forms.

Learn more: Art teacher at Resume Genius

Do you have more great teacher cover letter examples? Share them in our We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out the most common teacher interview questions and suggestions for how to answer them., you might also like.

Free Teacher Resume Template and Tips, Plus 21 Teacher Resume Examples

Make a great first impression! Continue Reading

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