physics teacher personal statement

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Successful Personal Statement For Physics At Oxford

Last Updated: 6th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Table of Contents

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it. 

Today, we are looking through a Physics applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The Physics Course at Oxford is concerned with the study of the universe from the smallest to the largest scale.

Read on to see how this strong Personal Statement covers such a broad range of intricate topics. 

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement (the applicant uses most of the 4,000 characters available):

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

Enrolling on our Oxford Physics comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts. 

With our  Oxford Physics Premium Programme, your tutor will give you regular actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.  

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Physics Personal Statement

An incessant curiosity about the laws of the cosmos has always attracted me to the study of physics. I am especially intrigued by theoretical physics and how its concepts are the foundations of all visible reactions one witnesses daily. My fascination with physics has led me to pursue my subject beyond the school curriculum and I have had a range of experiences which have confirmed my desire to study physics at university.

This summer I was selected for the Senior Physics Challenge at Cambridge University which enabled me to experience the level and pace of undergraduate classical mechanics, quantum mechanics and lab-work. In preparation for the course, I studied a quantum mechanics primer and familiarised myself with previously untaught mathematics. During the week, we tackled the Schrodinger equation, square well potential problems, Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle and learnt new aspects of mathematics such as eigenstates and SHM. The course was demanding thus highly engaging, and this encounter with higher-level physics has made me eager to extend my knowledge of quantum mechanics.

Selected to visit CERN with school on the basis of an essay competition on dark matter and dark energy, I attended lectures on particle physics and saw the LHCb experiment. The highlight of the trip being the coding activity organised by Liverpool University where, using real LHC data of a decaying kaon, we chose cuts to make in the data to improve the efficiency and purity of the signal. Gaining an insight into aspects of the research work undertaken by particle physicists was inspiring. Likewise, at a “Particle Physics Day” at Birmingham University, I had the opportunity to use computer software to identify different particles and collisions in detectors. Last summer, I attended the “Physics Experience Week” organised by Birmingham University that combined lectures, lab-work and a rocket-building session. I was fascinated by an experiment where, collaborating in a team with pupils from different schools, we counted cosmic ray muons using a scintillation detector and took down readings together.

Having chosen to study GCSE Astronomy independently, I learnt to use the Faulkes Telescopes to take photographs of Messier objects in order to determine the ages of 3 planetary nebulae. My interest in space has been enhanced by a 2-week trip to NASA with ‘Space Education Adventures’, visiting the Johnson and Kennedy Space Centres. I was astounded by the immensity of the space projects and their contribution to science and history. A work experience placement in a hospital Medical Physics department demonstrated to me the application of physics in medical diagnostic imaging and the importance of physics research for advances in medicine. The Engineering Education Scheme (year 12) enabled me to work with 3 other girls to design a hypothetical football training academy with engineer mentors from ARUP. We researched and presented a business case and technical plan to a panel of engineers from other companies, gaining the Gold Crest Award in Engineering as well as valuable presentation skills.

In complete contrast, this summer I attended the Joint Association of Classical Teachers’ Greek Summer School. In addition to intensive lessons, we performed Aeschylus’ Agamemnon in the original text; I was cast as Cassandra. This term I am giving a talk on Ancient Greek mathematics at my school’s Classical Society, having researched the topic over the summer. I enjoy performing arts: I belong to the Birmingham Young REP Theatre and I have performed in the Symphony Orchestra, a chamber music group and the Choral Society at school. Balancing academic work with other activities requires organisation and discipline. Physics is a demanding and highly rewarding field. The prospect of an unsolved problem which may not have an immediate answer is captivating. My wish to understand nature and the academic challenge this poses is the reason I aspire to study physics.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge

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Good Points Of The Personal Statement

This is a very well written, structured and excellent statement. The student has a clear motivation for physics and has achieved many things through extra hard work. The statement is easy to read, and the student describes their achievements yet does not brag. All points and experiences are expanded on and clearly explained. The final paragraph adds individuality to the statement, and all non-physics related interests are kept within this paragraph which is very good.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

The student uses the word ‘I’ a lot. Whilst it is important to emphasise personal achievements, using the same words over and over again makes the statement sound repetitive. The student mentions learning mathematics beyond the A-level syllabus prior to the Senior Physics Challenge at Cambridge University, however, does not expand on what this involved. The student has missed an opportunity to describe how they gained mathematical skills independently. The student does this again by failing to describe what they learned through writing their essay on dark matter. A sentence on each of these points would have added yet more value to this excellent statement.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 

This is an excellent statement. It is easy to read, well-structured and the student comes across as a very likeable individual.

This Personal Statement for Physics is a great example of a well written and effectively-structured Statement. The candidate’s interest and achievements are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

There are plenty more successful personal statements and expert guides on our Free Personal Statement Resources page.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford Physics application.

With our  Oxford Physics Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal   Statement , score highly on the PAT and teach you how to  Interview effectively .

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• Physics Personal Statement Examples

When applying to Physics you need to prepare yourself for the three key segments: PAT test , personal statement and interview. However, learning from the examples can be very beneficial and inspiring. Below you can find successful Physics personal statement examples . Both personal statements are highly accepted by Physics tutors at major UK universities. 

Physics Personal Statement Example

From the vast expanse of the cosmos to the microscopic world of particle interactions, physics seeks to understand the fundamental workings of nature across all scales. This breadth draws me to physics, along with the many mysteries that still exist. I plan to expand my knowledge through university study, equipping me to participate in modern research that shapes our understanding and technological capabilities.

Visiting CERN with my school, based on an essay competition on dark matter and energy, gave me invaluable exposure to particle physics research. I attended lectures detailing experiments like LHCb and explored the facilities, getting a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s leading research organisations. A highlight was working hands-on with real LHC data during a coding activity organised by Bristol University. Using decays of kaons, we applied cuts to improve signal efficiency and purity – gaining practical insight into the analysis work of particle physicists. This inspiring experience affirmed my interest in pursuing physics at university.

Expanding my studies, I have independently taken GCSE Astronomy . Learning about the cosmos on both large and small scales – from stars and galaxies to exoplanets – has deepened my appreciation for the stunning complexity of our universe. I find great joy in gaining knowledge that allows me to understand more of what I observe in the night sky.

My strong mathematical skills will aid me in tackling university-level physics. I achieved 100% on the AS Mechanics module, which reflects my aptitude for the quantitative side of physics. Studying A-Level Chemistry has also provided useful background in nuclear processes and other relevant areas.

Last year, I spent a year in America as an AFS exchange student. Adapting to a completely new environment improved my independence, problem-solving abilities, and cultural awareness. My English fluency increased dramatically as I made friends from around the world. This experience taught me to approach challenges from diverse perspectives – a skill that will help me thrive in university physics.

Physics underlies all natural phenomena and has led to technological innovations that transform society. I am compelled to further my physics education not just to satisfy my curiosity, but to meaningfully contribute to this enterprise for the benefit of all. I am eager to join a university community passionate about pushing the frontiers of human knowledge and look forward to the challenging, rewarding work ahead.

This personal statement for the Physics course was sent to Bristol University, Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial and Manchester University. It was accepted by all. 

Personal Statement Example for Physics

My innate curiosity about how things work has led me towards a deep interest in Physics , something I hope to pursue at the university level and beyond. I believe Physics plays a fundamental role in understanding ourselves and our universe and equips us to tackle pressing challenges facing society.

My passion for Physics began in childhood when I became transfixed by documentaries on quantum mechanics, space exploration and great scientists like Einstein . This early inspiration developed as I began studying Newtonian mechanics , electromagnetism, thermodynamics and more in school. I was always drawn to go beyond textbook examples, reading around subjects to satisfy my curiosity about real-world applications like semiconductors, medical imaging and green energy solutions. Academically, I have consistently excelled in Physics and Maths , achieving top marks. This reflects my diligence, determination and ability to tackle complex concepts.

Beyond the classroom, I have sought opportunities to expand my Physics knowledge. I attended lectures at nearby Durham University , broadening my understanding of astrophysics and particle physics. During my work experience at a materials science company, I used physics principles to test the characteristics of nanomaterials. I also represented my school in the UK Physics Olympiad, reaching the national finals and honing my problem-solving skills. As an avid reader of New Scientist, I have developed a holistic perspective on how physics relates to other scientific fields.

With excellent teachers encouraging me, I have cultivated a collaborative approach to learning. I worked closely with peers on practical experiments, data analysis and A-level assignments. As treasurer of the school Science Society, I organised rewarding trips to CERN and the Science Museum. Through these experiences, I have learned to communicate complex scientific ideas.

In the future, I hope to research to push the frontiers of human knowledge. Your Physics programme appeals due to the access to specialist facilities like laser laboratories and the chance to join a vibrant, intellectually stimulating community. With my academic abilities, passion for the subject and determination to succeed, I believe I would thrive here. Studying at your university would be an invaluable step towards realising my aspiration to become a pioneering Physicist.

This Physics personal statement was sent to Oxford (rejected), Cambridge (rejected), UCL (offer), Durham University (offer) and University of Bristol (offer).

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Teaching personal statement examples

Giving you the chance to show why you'd be a great teacher, your personal statement is an important part of your application and worth taking the time over

What is a teaching personal statement?

Your personal statement is used to explain why you want to become a teacher and your suitability for the role. While your application form briefly outlines your qualifications, skills and work experience, your teaching personal statement is where your personality shines through.

Take your time with it. Many candidates often spend a few weeks on this part of the application as you don't have to write it all at once. You should get someone to read over it and be prepared to receive constructive feedback and write a few drafts before you send it off.

It's important to:

• use examples based on your recent teaching experience
• tailor your personal statement according to the school/age group
• use good, clear, written English, using first person terms such as 'my' and 'I'
• be original and honest
• avoid clichés and general statements, such as 'I've always wanted to teach'
• demonstrate a passion for teaching.

While it's crucial to get it right, your teaching personal statement is only a small part of the application process. Find out how else you'll need to prepare to  get a teaching job .

How to write a personal statement for teaching

Your personal statement should be between 500 and 1,000 words. It's crucial that you  don't copy  and that the statement you provide is  your own work .

This is your opportunity to:

• write about any relevant skills and experience you have
• explain your understanding of why teaching is important
• detail why you want to become a teacher
• list any extra skills or experience you have, such as volunteering or first aid.

See  personal statements for postgraduate applications  for more guidance.

The nature of your personal statement will vary, depending on the type of teaching you'd like to pursue. Take a look at some of our example personal statements to get an idea of how they differ.

Personal statement for PGCE primary

As well as focusing on roles in which you've gained experience with primary-age children, a PGCE primary personal statement should demonstrate your well-rounded personality and any skills that could be useful for the range of extra-curricular activities primary schools provide (such as the ability to read music for recorder lessons, or drama experience to help with school plays).

Personal statement for PGCE secondary

Many good PGCE secondary personal statements acknowledge the challenges involved in teaching older pupils and provide examples of where the candidate has worked to overcome these problems. As secondary teaching roles are geared towards teaching a specific subject, training providers are looking for more evidence of your subject and degree knowledge.

Personal statement for School Direct

If you're applying for the salaried School Direct route, you should discuss the experience you've gained in the classroom prior to your application. One of your references will need to be from an employer, or someone who can comment on your work ethic and suitability for teaching. Don't worry if your degree is unrelated to the subject you'd like to teach - you may still be able to apply by completing a subject knowledge enhancement (SKE) course .

Find out more

• Discover how to structure a teaching CV .
• Find out what it's really like to be a primary or secondary school teacher .
• Search postgraduate courses in teaching .

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Physics Personal Statement

Sample Physics Personal Statement

Following an intense discussion about a ‘New Scientist’ article, my Physics teacher gave me Nobel Prize winner Richard Feynman’s autobiography, which ignited my passion for Physics. I was captivated by his exciting life in science, filled with adventures and discoveries. My subsequent research into other great scientists made me realise that the best physicists are simultaneously philosophers, inventors and sculptors, and that my knowledge of Economics, Philosophy and Maths will help me follow in their footsteps.

I have always had a natural affinity for scientific thinking and logic. My grandmother, an ex-USSR space projects programmer, taught me cards, chess and lateral thinking from an early age. These skills have helped me stand out in the classroom, drawing diagrams to find and explain my answers and using my initiative to design experiments. I have a meticulous attention to detail which enables me to collect accurate results, to which I then apply the theory. I am fascinated by theoretical Physics, which I read about extensively beyond my IB syllabus. I enjoy reading about the experimental aspects of quantum physics and my studies of Feynman inspired me to learn more about quantum electrodynamics. I am keen to learn more about the detection and possible uses of magnetic monopoles. I have also read numerous books by Stephen Hawkins and Michio Kaku, which have roused my interest in the concept of M-theory and the way it contradicts the Big Bang and Inflation. As the Vice-Chairman of my school’s ‘Quantum Society’ I have organised lectures by leading academics and trips, such as to a particle accelerator in Oxford. I have also delivered lectures myself, including [ give example(s) of topics ].

My work experience as a Laboratory Assistant gave me an insight into the practical applications of Physics. I worked in a research and testing facility, helping to plan and model different conditions in order to assess the fragility of the devices, set up experiments and collate date. It was fascinating to compare the often unpredictable results with mathematical models, and I learnt how to understand the reasons for failure and adapt my techniques in order to progress. My curiosity for discovery made this challenging experience very satisfying, and I look forward to applying my skills to advance science in future. Ultimately, I want to design the next generation of weapons such as wave-weapons or discover a new and safe source of energy. My language skills (fluent Russian and English, intermediate French and Mandarin) will enable me to take advantage of the global opportunities Physics offers.

I love sharing my enthusiasm for Physics with others, which my role as a volunteer mentor to Year 5 to 8 boys at two local schools enables me to do. I have developed the ability to explain complex Maths and Physics concepts in simple terms in a fun and engaging way.

My excellent time-management skills enable me to balance strong academic performance with a wide range of extra-curricular activities and responsibilities. At school I am the Secretary of the Charities Committee, which involves managing other committee members, organising and chairing meetings, controlling financial transactions and taking part in events such as the ‘Santa Run’ sponsored marathon. I also run my boarding house shop and was Vice-Head of HR if my Young Enterprise Team, through which I developed the good communication, teamwork and leadership skills which are essential when working in a Physics laboratory on research projects. In my spare time I manage, market, play bass and write and sing songs for a rock band.

I am a highly self-motivated and ambitious student, who learns quickly, thinks laterally, and is prepared to work as hard as it takes to achieve my goals.

I hope you found this sample Physics personal statement to be helpful

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How to write a personal statement for physics

Don’t pretend to be someone you’re not, say admissions tutors. You’ll soon be found out

"P hysics is a really cool subject because you can learn how to blow cars up." Not the most impressive opening to a personal statement Gary Barker of the University of Warwick has ever come across. More James May than Patrick Moore, he says wryly.

What would he prefer? "I would err on the side of formality rather than flippancy," he says.

Many admissions tutors look for two things in a personal statement: genuine enthusiasm for physics and signs of maturity.

Some statements border almost on the philosophical, which is absolutely fine, says Barker. "I like to think that there's a person out there who lies awake at night worrying about these things."

Demonstrating engagement with the subject is not difficult but do remember that some admissions tutors are looking for a richer knowledge of the subject than you get on prime-time TV.

"By all means mention what hooked you in the beginning, but do also mention what you are doing now to deepen your understanding," says Anton Machacek, a physics teacher who graduated from Trinity College, Oxford.

"Popular science programmes rarely develop your thinking skills in the way universities will want. In this sense, I would say that the influence of Nina and her Nefarious Neurons on you as a toddler might count more in your favour than Prof Brian Cox at age 16."

Think about which skills are relevant to your application: for example, computing experience will help you with a theoretical physics degree.

Machacek says it's a shame that students often forget to talk about their A-level courses in their personal statements. "It's no good saying 'I've studied A-level physics' – they already know that," he says. "But you can say what skills you enjoyed developing and which areas excited you."

And for a budding physicist it is well worth becoming a member of the Institute of Physics – membership is free for 16- to 19-year-olds.

Many physics undergrad hopefuls mention a lot of the same books, or say they read the New Scientist, says Professor Henning Schomerus, physics admissions tutor at Lancaster University. "This wouldn't put me off, but I would probably more or less ignore it," he says. If you want to talk about a journal you read, pick out an article and discuss why it interests you.

Be specific. If The Big Bang Theory sparked your interest in physics, explain why. Schomerus, for instance, likes the episode where Sheldon takes a job as an unpaid waiter to try to discover how electrons move through graphene – it's an area he's done research in.

"Make the statement truly personal," he says, a point reiterated by Machacek, who is also a visiting research scientist at the Central Laser Facility in Rutherford.

"It is extremely important to be yourself," he says. "If you are a quiet, modest type, and you force yourself to write an extrovert's personal statement to make you seem bigger, very odd things can happen if you are interviewed."

Most admissions tutors advise that content should always trump style or creativity, but stress that writing should be coherent because physicists must be able to communicate.

Physics admissions officer Kenny Wood points out that with over a thousand applications for tutors at the University of St Andrews to sift through each year, spelling and grammar can make all the difference.

Wood says competition is fierce, and urges students not to be disappointed if they don't get into their first choice. "Remember, all physics departments are accredited by the Institute of Physics and if you get a good degree from any department in the UK, this will keep the door open for postgraduate studies at other institutions."

Olivia Keenan, a physics masters graduate from the University of Southampton about to embark on a PhD at Cardiff in extra-galactic observations, urges more girls to consider physics.

"As a female, if you are as well qualified as your male counterparts and you can make yourself stand out, then you're often in a good position to get through the 'admissions game'.

"Having narrowly missed the grades to get on to my physics course, I'm sure that having a strong personal statement helped me," she says. "It displayed my passion for the subject, backed up with evidence to prove it – for example, I'd taught GCSE students about astronomy while in sixth form at school."

Extra-curricular activities can reflect passion – working at a science museum, being a member of a local astronomy society or having visited Cern, for example – but tutors realise that not everybody has these opportunities. Simply making the most of your school's library is fine if it gives you a deeper appreciation of physics.

Above all, don't get too worked up about it. At the University of Birmingham, Professor Andy Schofield stresses that the personal statement is unlikely to be the decider in whether or not you get an offer.

It's a chance to explain any unusual aspects of your application though, says Schofield – for example, why your past performance doesn't reflect your potential.

Not everyone knows what they want to study and it's okay to apply to more than one course, say, physics and natural sciences. "I'm quite happy to see a personal statement that talks in two halves," he says.

Whether your interests lie in the cosmos or computing, the most important thing is keep it personal and prove your enthusiasm for physics.

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Physics Teacher CV example

If you’re currently conducting your job search without the desired results, you’ve come to the right place.

You need to transform your teaching CV to increase your chances of securing an interview – and we can help you with that.

Don’t waste any more energy on generic applications, check out our top tips for writing an engaging application, complete with a physics teacher CV example below.

CV templates 

Physics Teacher CV example

This CV example showcases the optimal structure and format for your Physics Teacher CV, providing a pleasant reading experience for busy recruiters.

It also demonstrates the skills, experience and qualifications you should emphasize in your own CV to increase your chances of landing job interviews.

Physics Teacher CV format and structure

Your CV is the first impression you’ll make on anybody who reads it.

A disorganised, cluttered and barely-readable CV could seriously decrease your chances of landing interviews, so it’s essential to make sure yours is slick, professional and easy to navigate.

You can do this by using a clear structure and formatting your content with some savvy formatting techniques – check them out below:

Tips for formatting your Physics Teacher CV

• Length: Whether you’ve got one year or three decades of experience, your CV should never be more than two sides of A4. Recruiters are busy people who’re often juggling numerous roles and tasks, so they don’t have time to read lengthy applications. If you’re a recent graduate or don’t have much industry experience, one side of A4 is fine.
• Readability : Help out time-strapped recruiters by formatting your CV for easy reading. Using lots of bullet points and lists will help them to skim through your info, while clearly formatted headings will allow them to navigate towards the content which is most useful to them.
• Design & format: While it’s okay to add your own spin to your CV, avoid overdoing the design. If you go for something elaborate, you might end up frustrating recruiters who, above anything, value simplicity and clarity.
• Photos: Don’t add profile photos to your CV unless you work in an industry or region which prefers to see them. Most employers in the UK will not need to see one.

Quick tip: Creating a professional CV style can be difficult and time-consuming when using Microsoft Word or Google Docs. To create a winning CV quickly, try our quick-and-easy CV Builder and use one of their eye-catching professional CV templates.

CV structure

As you write your CV , divide and sub-head into the following sections:

• Name and contact details – Always start with these, so employers know exactly how to get in touch with you.
• CV profile – Add a short summary of your relevant experience, skills and achievements, which highlights your suitability.
• Core skills section – A 2-3 columned list of your key skills.
• Work experience – A detailed list of any relevant work experience, whether paid or voluntary.
• Education – An overview of your academic background and any training you may have completed.
• Hobbies and interests – A brief overview of your hobbies and interests, if they’re relevant (optional).

Now you understand the basic layout of a CV, here’s what you should include in each section of yours.

Contact Details

Tuck your contact details into the corner of your CV, so that they don’t take up too much space. Stick to the basic details, such as:

• Mobile number
• Email address – It should sound professional, such as your full name.
• Location -Just write your rough location, rather than your full address.
• LinkedIn profile or portfolio URL – If you include these, ensure they’re sleek, professional and up-to-date.

Physics Teacher CV Profile

Recruiters read through countless applications every day.

If they don’t find what they’re looking for quickly, they’ll simply move onto the next one.

That’s what makes your CV profile (or personal statement , if you’re an entry-level/graduate candidate) so important.

This short and snappy summary sits at the top of your CV, and should give a high-level overview of why you’re a good match for the job.

This way, you can ensure that busy recruiters see your suitability from the outset, and so, feel your CV is worth their time.

How to write a good CV profile:

• Make it short and sharp: The best CV profiles are short, sharp and highly relevant to the target role. For this reason, it’s best to write 3-4 lines of high-level information, as anything over might be missed.
• Tailor it: Before writing your CV, make sure to do some research. Figure out exactly what your desired employers are looking for and make sure that you are making those requirements prominent in your CV profile, and throughout.
• Don’t add an objective: Want to talk about your career goals and objectives? While the profile may seem like a good space to do so, they’re actually much better suited to your cover letter .
• Avoid generic phrases: Cheesy clichès and generic phrases won’t impress recruiters, who read the same statements several times per day. Impress them with your skill-set, experience and accomplishments instead!

Example CV profile for Physics Teacher

What to include in your physics teacher cv profile.

• Experience overview: Demonstrate your suitability for your target jobs by giving a high level summary of your previous work work experience , including the industries you have worked in, types of employer, and the type of roles you have previous experience of.
• Targeted skills: Make your most relevant Physics Teacher key skills clear in your profile. These should be tailored to the specific role you’re applying for – so make sure to check the job description first, and aim to match their requirements as closely as you can.
• Important qualifications: If the jobs you are applying to require candidates to have certain qualifications, then you must add them in your profile to ensure they are seen by hiring managers.

Quick tip: If you are finding it difficult to write an attention-grabbing CV profile, choose from hundreds of pre-written profiles across all industries, and add one to your CV with one click in our quick-and-easy CV Builder . All profiles are written by recruitment experts and easily tailored to suit your unique skillset.

Core skills section

To ensure that your most relevant skills catch the eye of readers, create a core skills section below your profile.

This section should be presented in 2-3 columns of bullet points highlighting your applicable skills. Before crafting this section, carefully examine the job description and create a list of any required skills, specialisms, or knowledge.

Use this list to include the necessary information in your section and present yourself as the ideal match for the position.

Important skills for your Physics Teacher CV

Subject Matter Expertise – Maintaining proficiency in physics concepts, principles, and theories across various topics such as mechanics, electromagnetism, and thermodynamics.

Curriculum Development – Designing and developing physics lesson plans and curriculum that align with educational standards and learning objectives.

Classroom Management – Establishing and maintaining an effective classroom environment, including behaviour management and student engagement strategies.

Experimental Physics – Setting up and conducting physics experiments safely, and guiding students in hands-on learning experiences.

Assessment and Evaluation – Using various assessment techniques, including quizzes, exams, and project-based assessments, to evaluate and provide feedback on student performance.

Inclusive Education – Adapting teaching methods and materials to accommodate diverse learning styles, abilities, and special educational needs.

Technology Integration – Using educational technology, software, and simulation tools to enhance physics instruction.

Data Analysis – Analysing and interpreting experimental data and results, and guiding students in drawing meaningful conclusions.

Critical Thinking – Fostering critical thinking skills in students, encouraging them to analyse and solve complex physics problems.

Professional Development – Remaining dedicated to ongoing professional development, including staying current with advancements in physics education, teaching methods, and pedagogical research.

Quick tip: Our quick-and-easy CV Builder has thousands of in-demand skills for all industries and professions, that can be added to your CV in seconds – This will save you time and ensure you get noticed by recruiters.

Work experience

By this point, employers will be keen to know more detail about you career history.

Starting with your most recent role and working backwards, create a snappy list of any relevant roles you’ve held.

This could be freelance, voluntary, part-time or temporary jobs too. Anything that’s relevant to your target role is well-worth listing!

Structuring each job

Lengthy, unbroken chunks of text is a recruiters worst nightmare, but your work experience section can easily end up looking like that if you are not careful.

To avoid this, use my tried-and-tested 3-step structure, as illustrated below:

Start with a brief summary of your role as a whole, as well as the type of company you worked for.

Key responsibilities

Next, write up a punchy list of your daily duties and responsibilities, using bullet points.

Wherever you can, point out how you put your hard skills and knowledge to use – especially skills which are applicable to your target role.

Key achievements

Lastly, add impact by highlight 1-3 key achievements  that you made within the role.

Struggling to think of an achievement? If it had a positive impact on your company, it counts.

For example, you might increased company profits, improved processes, or something simpler, such as going above and beyond to solve a customer’s problem.

Sample job description for Physics Teacher CV

Play a crucial role in educating young people aged 16 to 18 about Quantum and Advanced Mechanics, Relativity, Cosmology, and Dark Matter/Energy as part of their university admissions, for a prestigious independent school in that offers numerous academic programmes.

Key Responsibilities

• Craft and adapt the curriculum in accordance with AQA, OCR, and Edexcel requirements and the specific needs of the institution.
• Deliver engaging and informative lessons using various methods and resources to enhance learning experiences.
• Enable a positive and inclusive environment that encourages participation, critical thinking, and independent study.
• Create effective materials which include textbooks and practical experiments tailored to specific interests and abilities.

Quick tip: Create impressive job descriptions easily in our quick-and-easy CV Builder by adding pre-written job phrases for every industry and career stage.

Education section

At the bottom of your CV is your full education section. You can list your formal academic qualifications, such as:

• GCSE’s

As well as any specific Physics Teacher qualifications that are essential to the jobs you are applying for. Note down the name of the qualification, the organisation at which you studied, and the date of completion.

Hobbies and interests

Although this is an optional section, it can be useful if your hobbies and interests will add further depth to your CV.

Interests which are related to the sector you are applying to, or which show transferable skills like leadership or teamwork, can worth listing.

On the other hand, generic hobbies like “going out with friends” won’t add any value to your application, so are best left off your CV.

An interview-winning CV for a Physics Teacher role, needs to be both visually pleasing and packed with targeted content.

Whilst it needs to detail your experience, accomplishments and relevant skills, it also needs to be as clear and easy to read as possible.

Remember to research the role and review the job ad before applying, so you’re able to match yourself up to the requirements.

If you follow these guidelines and keep motivated in your job search, you should land an interview in no time.

Best of luck with your next application!

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How to write a teacher personal statement

Your personal statement is your first opportunity to show the school you’re a great fit for the job, and gets you closer to being shortlisted for an interview. The more you show how your skills and interests match the school’s ethos and values, the better. We’ve spoken to a range of teachers to get their top tips for success.

What experience do you have?

Schools want to hear about your trainee experience with different subjects, key stages, types of school, and working with a range of pupils.

Think about your approach to teaching, how you keep pupils engaged, and how you communicate with different kinds of people (children, staff, parents and carers). Ensure you provide evidence for how you have improved student engagement and built positive relationships with pupils.

Schools will be interested in your approach to behaviour management, so think about your go-to strategies.

Are you engaged in teaching theory and research?

Think about any research that has affected your teaching practice. Explain what has worked well and if it didn’t, what you learnt.

Are you up to date on safeguarding statutory guidance?

You need to demonstrate your awareness of the importance of safeguarding and the requirements of Keeping Children Safe in Education . Include any examples of how you worked with a Designated Safeguarding Lead.

What are your skills and qualities?

Are you a well-organised, confident, and motivated teacher? Say it, and provide examples! Schools are looking for great communicators, team players and relationship builders. Make sure you say how you create a positive learning environment, and consider skills like time management, organisation, and flexibility. Schools will also want to know how you overcome challenges.

How can you contribute to wider school life?

Set yourself apart by showing how your hobbies and achievements could contribute to the wider school community. Could you run an after school club or organise school trips?

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Mathematics & physics personal statement example 2.

My enthusiasm for Mathematics and Physics comes from the fact that they are both used to further our understanding of the universe and have applications in all other areas of science. My main area of interest in Physics is particle physics as this tells us how fundamental parts of our universe interact with each other.

I aim to improve my knowledge of science in fields such as particle physics, plasma physics, and nuclear fusion as these are new areas of physics and, with research, could lead to great improvements in our knowledge of how the world works.

I would like to learn more about plasma and fusion as further research in these fields could have practical applications capable of revolutionising the ways in which we produce electricity, making production far more efficient, safe and less damaging to the world.

In Mathematics, I enjoy learning new, more efficient methods of answering questions and then applying them to solve equations. I believe that I would not be able to properly understand Physics without first understanding the underlying Mathematics, and that applying new mathematical knowledge to solve real world issues is one of the most important reasons for me to study both subjects.

In school, I am learning modules from all branches of Mathematics and have started independently teaching myself an additional Further Mathematics module to expand my knowledge of mathematics beyond my school's selection of modules. As well as this, I am attending lessons in preparation for a STEP Mathematics exam.

I enjoy both the challenges associated with teaching myself more maths for the additional module, and the ways in which STEP questions require me to apply my AS level mathematics in ways not tested by the syllabus.

I am interested in the extent to which Physics can apply Mathematics to problems in the real world, and use observations to make discoveries based on the Mathematics behind experiments that were performed, such as the size of the nucleus of an atom, as discovered in Rutherford's scattering experiment.

Outside of lessons, I have travelled to CERN to visit the Large Hadron Collider in order to learn about the experiments performed there, and have attended a presentation at Newcastle University about the applications of Mathematics in areas such as game shows. I have also received a Bronze award in the UKMT Senior challenge.

I completed the questions in the Cambridge Chemistry challenge and completed a written test as part of the challenge, achieving a copper award. Furthermore, I have helped my school in Year 7 and Sixth form open days, answering parents' questions and talking to prospective pupils about Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry.

Outside of school, I am a black belt in Taekwondo and have previously coached people who were new to the sport. I have also been a member of the Air Training Corps, where I completed the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award.

Whilst planning for the Duke of Edinburgh award, I was responsible for organising the route that would be taken, making sure that we would finish on time and that we would walk the correct distance, and planning the routes that would be taken should something go wrong on the expedition. I also helped organise fundraising events such as Remembrance Day coffee mornings.

Being a part of the ATC taught me leadership skills, punctuality and the ability to organise myself and a group. I have also taught myself guitar and bass, and currently play as part of a band with friends. After university, I would like to continue learning Physics, studying either fusion or particle physics, and look forward to being a part of future research.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by adam96 for application in 2014.

adam96's university choices The University of Liverpool The University of Edinburgh

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

Degree Mathematics and Physics at The University of York

adam96's Comments

Applied for joint Mathematics and Physics or Mathematical Physics at all my choices.

Achieved AABB in Maths, Further maths, Physics and Chemistry (Dropped) at AS then got A*A*A* at A2.

Received offers from York (Firm), Liverpool (Insurance), Glasgow and Loughborough. Withdrew from Edinburgh before receiving a reply.

York: AAB with AA in Maths and Physics Liverpool: AAB with A in Maths, AB to include physics Loughborough and Glasgow: AAB including Maths and Physics

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