teaching job cover letter uk

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

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

• More CV and cover letter templates
• Looking for teaching jobs ? View vacancies across all teaching levels at Guardian Jobs

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:

This article includes content provided by Scribd. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as they may be using cookies and other technologies. To view this content, click 'Allow and continue' .

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.

Looking for a job? Browse Guardian Jobs for your next career step.

• Guardian Careers
• CV and cover letter examples
• Covering letters
• Work & careers
• Job hunting
• Career advice

Comments (…)

Most viewed.

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.

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.

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!

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.

View our latest teaching vacancies

Select a job role

Select a job sector

No results found.....

What Is a Teaching Cover Letter?

How to write a good teaching cover letter, example cover letter, final thoughts, how to write a teaching cover letter.

Updated January 12, 2024

All products and services featured are independently selected by WikiJob. When you register or purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission.

A teaching cover letter is the first impression that will decide whether or not a school will interview you.

Therefore, whether you are applying for your first job, looking to specialize, looking to shift into a new education area or advance to a leadership role, demonstrating that you match the specification in the job advert and that you are genuinely passionate is key.

A good cover letter for any position is crucial – your cover letter, before a resume, is what will grab a recruiter’s attention, highlight your specific skills and experience, and demonstrate that you are the best fit for their organization.

However, in teaching, where qualifications are standardized and therefore don’t vary very much between applicants, it is of extra importance to demonstrate your skills, experiences and fit in punchy, succinct and direct writing.

Realistically, you have around thirty seconds to capture the attention of the reader. So do your research (writing to a named individual is always more effective than a general ' to whom it may concern '), and make sure your letter highlights the specific experiences and skills which will benefit the organization you are applying to, tailoring your letter for each new application you write.

What Should a Good Teaching Cover Letter Include?

A good cover letter demonstrates that you:

Are genuinely interested in, and could contribute actively to, the school you are applying to

Have specific skills and experiences which you could contribute to the role

Are passionate about your specialism whether it is working in the early years or teaching a specific subject at high school, and can demonstrate why you think your work is important

Meet or exceed the key competencies and qualifications outlined in the job description

The quickest strategy for ensuring you make the shortlist for an interview is to use the language of the person specification or job description for your teaching position verbatim.

Doing this will also ensure your letter is tailored to the organization you are writing to.

Here are some of the key things to include:

Your Knowlege of the School

A good cover letter demonstrates you are genuinely interested in working for the school you are applying to. So, do your research.

Start with the school website and identify anything that the school prides itself on. It could be extracurricular activities and arts, great exam results, or including and communicating with families.

Even better than researching, many schools will welcome visits from prospective teachers. A visit allows you to present yourself well ahead of application, as well as to evaluate for yourself the culture of the school, the environment you will be working in, and to ask questions of current staff about the school culture.

Specific Examples of Your Work Experience

Make sure you acknowledge any specific examples in your teacher cover letter and demonstrate how your experience shows you could contribute to the school's values.

For example, in an elementary teaching cover letter, the job description could include sentences such as:

• 'Essential: three to five years of experience working with children in elementary schools'
• 'Knowledge of child development in early years'

Your sentences can echo this directly:

I have five years of experience working in elementary schools as a specialist teacher.

My knowledge of child development in early years is exemplary and evidenced by...

Your Passion and Motivation

Your passion for your specialism should also be evident in your writing. You could build on the sentences above to explain your motivation for becoming and staying in education.

For example:

I have five years of experience working in elementary schools and am driven by the belief that the impact of schooling on children is greater than any other stage of their school career.

I am fascinated by development in early years and am motivated by a desire to make a positive and lasting impact on each class I teach.

Key Specialisms

There will be key differences between:

A substitute teacher cover letter – Specialist teachers working with students with needs should be specific about their experiences. If you have worked with deaf children, your knowledge of sign language and any extra training are key competencies to highlight in your letter. If you have worked with children with autism or children for whom English is not their native language, these are experiences that will have grown very different skills. Again, a specialist teacher cover letter should evidence the willingness to learn new skills, as well as key learning experiences developed in previous roles.

An elementary teacher cover letter – This should highlight your experiences of working with specific age groups, as well as your willingness to transition to an older or younger class if that is what the job description requires (or to continue to develop and upskill as a teacher within the same age bracket if necessary).

A preschool teacher cover letter – This needs to emphasize your interest in working with young children and the experiences you have had doing so.

A high school teacher cover letter – This should explain and evidence your passion for your subject, as well as the reasons you think your subject is crucial to the curriculum. Evidence of extra-curricular support and offers will always be valuable. For example, a music teacher should always speak about bands, shows, and events they have contributed to or organized in previous roles.

With each paragraph of your teacher cover letter, be succinct and remember who is reading.

Don’t just talk about yourself, but link each experience and skill you highlight to a requirement of the job description. And of course, be proud and frame everything positively.

For example, if there is a requirement on the description which you don’t feel confident about currently, explain that this is an area in which you are hoping to develop.

First Paragraph

Begin by addressing an individual, ideally the recruitment manager at the school.

The job description will likely explain who to return the application to, and if it doesn’t, call or write to the school to ask who to address the application to.

For example,

Dear Mr. Jones, I am writing to apply for the position of [job title] currently advertised on your website.

Your first paragraph is your chance to grab their attention , so be upfront and snappy, formal but enthusiastic.

Give an overview of the experiences and skills which match you to the role and start linking them to the school straight away.

For example, if a school has lots of photos of performances on its website, mention your experience in delivering these in the first paragraph:

With over three years' experience working across all year groups in elementary schools, and a particular interest in delivering creative arts projects both in schools and in the community, I am confident that I could make an outstanding contribution to your school and its vibrant community.

Job adverts and person specifications are often generic and copy-pasted, therefore show you’ve done your research from the outset.

Second Paragraph

In your second paragraph, dive deep into your experiences but select the ones which match you to this job specifically.

This is your chance to demonstrate that your experience, as well as extra contributions to school culture, place you ahead of any other candidate for this role in particular.

Your experiences can and should include voluntary work undertaken in the school and community, but should always relate directly to the organization you are applying to.

What is it that sparked your interest in working in this school in particular? Take time to reflect on this carefully.

Begin each sentence with the point from the job description, embedded in a sentence about yourself.

For example, if an essential requirement is that you have made significant improvements to literacy at your school, your first sentence should relate to this:

I have made significant improvements to progress in literacy in my current role. When I started, most students in K-12 were making below expected progress in English. Two years later, having embedded a strategy targeting underachieving students, now over 70% of students in K-12 have met or exceeded their expected reading levels. I did this by [outline your steps] and would feel confident in raising standards in literacy quickly and strategically at [name the school you are applying to].

Address each of the essential competencies outlined in the job description. To be succinct, if you can address multiple requirements from the person specification with one experience, evidence all of these in one paragraph, or better still, sentence.

Avoid talking about all of your experiences in a general sense. Draw out times in your career where specific actions you have taken have resulted in evident improvements in your class or organization, and describe these in detail.

Third Paragraph

Your third paragraph should demonstrate how your qualification has equipped you with the skills you need for this role in particular.

Your teaching qualification will be very similar to other applicants’, regardless of whether you are a new teacher or this is your third or fourth post. So, talk about the experiences you acquired during your student teacher placements, and how these have reinforced your passion for your specialism.

If you are writing a K-12 or high school teacher cover letter, emphasize experiences from your undergraduate degree or previous professional experiences that support your enthusiasm for your subject specialism.

If you are writing a preschool or elementary school teacher cover letter, describe any important learning experiences you acquired in training, explain why you chose your training course and how this relates to the school you are applying to.

The communities you trained in will impact your suitability for a role.

For example, if you have trained in a rural school, you will need to work hard to explain how your experiences make you suitable for a role in an urban community.

If you are moving across state or cross country, research the demographics of the school you are applying to and it’s particular needs.

Your recruiter may not be aware of the demands of the schools and communities you have trained in, so link these to those described in the job description.

During my teacher training, I worked in two schools in upstate New Jersey, where the majority of students did not speak English. I would therefore feel confident in supporting students in [new State] who have moved from other countries.

Any commendations you received during your training should also be highlighted here, as well as any further professional development or study you have taken during your teaching career if this is not your first post.

Fourth Paragraph

Your fourth paragraph should dig deep into the reasons this organization appeals to you specifically and is your opportunity to demonstrate that you have done your research and have read the website and inspection reports before applying.

You can also demonstrate that you can add value to the organization by addressing any specific problems that the school is currently facing.

I feel privileged to have made an impact in a diverse community in my [name current school] by offering performing experiences to students by running annual marching band shows. I would love to contribute to the [detail any events you notice this school runs regularly] and would love to add more to this aspect of [name the school]’s extracurricular program.

Final Paragraph

This paragraph is your call to action , and an opportunity to summarise the key reason you, above any other candidate, are ideal for this position.

You should briefly summarise and reinforce the points you have highlighted in your letter so far, and let the recruiter know you are keen to be interviewed.

Keep it succinct and go out on a high.

In summary, I am passionate about my subject/specialism, and keen to move into a role where I can make an even greater impact on academic and extracurricular life in school. I would love to work at [name new school] and think I would make a great contribution not only to my classes’ attainment but also to provide further opportunities outside the classroom. I am enthusiastic, experienced, a great team player, and think I would make an excellent fit for your school as I meet all the competencies outlined in your job description. I look forward to hearing from you about my application and hope to meet you at the interview.

Step 1 . Show your passion

Through succinct writing and specific examples, make it clear that there is nothing else you want to do professionally. Schools are keen to recruit committed staff who will stay in their jobs and make significant contributions to the wider life of schools.

Step 2 . Don’t generalize or reuse letters for multiple applications

Tailor your application to each school by echoing the language of the person specification and job description directly, and mention the name of your prospective school as often as possible. Start each letter from scratch, even if you are reiterating points from previous applications. You will save time by planning each letter carefully, following a structure and rewriting each sentence.

Step 3 . Use checking tools

Spell checkers, as well as tools such as Grammarly, will help you hit the right tone with your letter. Nothing beats another pair of eyes going over a letter, so find a friend or family member who can give your letter a read before you send it. Start writing your letter well before the deadline to make sure you have time to check for any mistakes and reflect on what the school is looking for.

Dear Mr. Jones, I am writing to apply for the position of high school English Teacher currently advertised on your website. I have five years' experience of working as a specialist English teacher in high schools and am genuinely motivated by seeing students progress in their literacy and writing, which are skills that will stand them in good stead for life. I am also passionate about drama and believe I would make a great fit for Greenwood High, as your school already has such a strong performing arts offering which I would love to contribute more to. I feel confident I could make a significant, positive impact on Greenwood High students’ literacy and love of reading, as well as grades in English assessments. In my current role, I have taken the lead on English in the 9th and 10th grades. When I started at the school in 2017, fewer than 20% of our students were reading at their age level. Through careful planning and implementation, which began by assessing each student in my class individually, I raised this percentage to over 60% by the end of 2019. Moreover, I feel I fostered a genuine love of reading and curiosity around literature by allowing students to make choices over set texts and be self-directed in their learning. I believe I could help students at Greenwood High make similar or even better progress. I qualified as a teacher in 2015, and during my training, I mainly worked in schools where most students did not speak English as a native language. Making a difference in these marginalized communities was one of my main motivations in selecting my training course, which I passed with merits. Notably, I also hold an undergraduate degree in English Literature and Education, which demonstrates my commitment to using literature and language to improve young people’s lives. Greenwood High would be an excellent fit for me as not only do I feel confident in supporting students from diverse backgrounds, such as those in your catchment area, in achieving their best in English at high-school level, but I would also love to add to the already vibrant extra-curricular opportunities in drama and debate which you already offer. In my current role, I established and ran an annual Shakespeare festival, in which over 100 students took part by performing abridged versions of their favorite plays. I see that your school also has an annual drama performance, and I would love to take part in making this happen. In summary, I am an experienced and driven English teacher with a genuine passion for my subject. I have experience in working with students similar to those at Greenwood high and raising attainment both through careful planning, assessment and communication in class, but also by building great relationships with students and staff through extra-curricular activities. I would love to work at Greenwood High as, following my visit, I know it to be a positive, creative and exciting school that really supports its students in achieving their best. I am available for an interview at any time, and I look forward to hearing from you concerning this application. Kind regards, Emma Jeffrey

As it is unlikely a recruitment manager will read anything except the tag line of your resume, your teaching cover letter, no matter your specialism, will be crucial to getting onto the interview shortlist.

Every school is different, and whilst job adverts and person specifications might look similar role-to-role, go beyond these to read around the organization in detail, and address its needs and values directly in your teacher cover letter.

Be authentic, and be succinct. Your letter is not about you, but about the unique value you can bring to that organization in particular. So, keep it brief, formal and enthusiastic, addressing the needs you can meet with your real-world experiences.

Your teacher cover letter is your only chance ahead of the interview to demonstrate that you are the best fit for the job, so make it count.

You might also be interested in these other Wikijob articles:

Or explore the Application Advice / Job Applications sections.

• All vacancies
• Jobs London
• Jobs Liverpool
• Jobs Manchester
• Jobs Bristol
• Jobs Leicester
• All locations
• Part time jobs
• Evening jobs
• Weekend Jobs
• Internships
• Summer Jobs
• Graduate Jobs
• Apprenticeships
• Work from home jobs
• Job categories
• I am an employer
• About StudentJob
• CV Examples and Tips
• No Experience CV Examples and Tips
• Cover Letter Examples and Tips
• Job Interview Questions and Tips
• All Application Tips
• Free CV maker
• Info about ages
• Employee Rights
• Employment Contracts
• Perks at Work
• Salary and Tax
• Well-being at Work
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Professions Guide
• Summer jobs
• Graduate jobs
• Weekend jobs
• Popular jobs
• Jobs in the Netherlands
• Jobs in Portugal
• Jobs in Greece
• Jobs in Spain
• Jobs in China
• All jobs abroad
• Work with us
• Place a vacancy
• Search our CV database
• Employer tips
• Recruitment guide

Teacher Cover Letter Example

• Application Tips
• Cover Letter
• Teacher Example

On this page

• Cover Letter Example for a Teaching Job
• Teaching Assistant Cover Letter
• English Teacher Cover Letter
• Primary Teacher Cover Letter
• Physical Education Teacher Cover Letter

Need a job?

Check our vacancies. VACANCIES

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.

Create Your Free CV Now

You can create your professional CV with our free CV Builder.

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.

Are You Still Looking For A Job?

Take a look at our part-time, internships and graduate positions today!

Related Cover Letter Articles

How to write a cover letter.

Best Tips to nail your cover letter.

Care Assistant Example

Crafting the perfect cover letter for care assistant jobs.

Customer Service Example

Writing a customer service cover letter has never been easier!

Retail Example

Tips and examples for creating a retail cover letter.

Internship Example

Crafting an impactful cover letter for your internship application.

No Experience Example

Crafting a no-experience cover letter was never easier!

Sales Example

Tips and examples to master your sales cover letter.

Engineering Example

Expert tips and examples for acing your engineering cover letter.

Nursing Example

Learn how to build an impressive nursing cover letter.

Marketing Example

Step into the world of marketing with a winning cover letter.

Hospitality Example

Ace your hospitality cover letter with our tips and examples.

Student Cities

• Jobs in Belfast
• Jobs in Bristol
• Jobs in Birmingham
• Jobs in Edinburgh
• Jobs in Glasgow
• Jobs in Leeds
• Jobs in Liverpool
• Jobs in London
• Jobs in Manchester
• Jobs in Newcastle
• Jobs in Nottingham
• Jobs in Sheffield
• Jobs in Southampton
• Advertise with us
• Candidate search
• Testimonials
• Find Part Time Jobs
• Find Holiday Jobs
• Find Internships
• Find jobs abroad
• Application tips

Search the site

Free sign up for Students

You can log in once you have made an account. After logging in, you can apply to the jobs you are interested in and also manage your profile details.

Employer login

Free employer profile.

You can log in on StudentJob if you have made an account as an employer. Finding the right candidate for you is just a few clicks away.

Don't have an account as an employer?

• International
• Schools directory
• Back issues
• New Teachers
• Resources Jobs Schools directory News Search

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.

• How to choose the right school for you
• Why you should embrace the surprise job offer
• How to write the perfect personal statement

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.

• Management Consultant Management Consultant
• Finance & Banking Professionals Finance & Banking Professionals
• Project Manager Project Manager
• Marketing Managers Marketing Managers
• Real Estate Manager Real Estate Manager
• IT Experts IT Experts
• Sales Associates Sales Associates
• Architecture Services Architecture Services
• Software Engineers Software Engineers
• Hospitality Industry Hospitality Industry
• Medical Professional Medical Professional
• Digital Marketers Digital Marketers
• AI Engineer AI Engineer
• Cyber Security Experts Cyber Security Experts
• Visual Merchandiser Visual Merchandiser
• Customer Service Customer Service
• Business Analysts Business Analysts
• Energy Analyst Energy Analyst
• Animator Animator
• Multimedia Designer Multimedia Designer
• Systems Engineer Systems Engineer
• Legal Secretary Legal Secretary
• Sports Agent Sports Agent
• Arbitrator Arbitrator
• Graduate CV
• Success Stories
• Tier 2 Sponsor List

[email protected]

Cover letter for a teacher.

Cover letter example for a Teacher position in the UK. You can use this covering letter example after amending them as suitable.

We have two examples for you:

Teacher Cover Letter 1

Address Line 1 Address Line 2 Address Line 3 Address Line 4 Address Line 5

27th December 2021

Dear Sir / Madam

I am writing to you with regards to the recent position for Teacher that I saw advertised on jobvacancies.net

I am currently working as a (insert title) at (insert company) and am keen to take the next step on the career ladder. I am a motivated, driven and enthusiastic individual and I am confident that I can bring a dynamic energy to your organisation.

When I saw the position at (insert company name) advertised, I immediately wanted to apply. My background includes a variety of roles, all of which were performed well with the scope to work my way up to a Teaching role. I feel it is time to bring my knowledge and skills to an arena where I can teach others.

I feel I can competently take on this role and work to exceed your expectations.

Please find attached my current CV, which details my experience along with my technical skills.

I believe I have the right qualities and attributes for the Teacher vacancy.

I very much look forward to hearing from you,

Yours Sincerely,

Cover Letter for a Teacher 2

Mr John Brown 222 Every Road Any Town AA1 1BB

Mrs Jane Smith ABC School All Streets Any Town YY1 1ZZ

Dear Mrs Smith

I read your advertisement for the post of Teacher with great interest and would like to apply.

You will see from my CV that I am fully qualified and have worked as a primary school teacher at STU School for the last four years. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time there but am now relocating and looking for a new challenge in a different area.

I believe in offering an interactive learning experience and engaging pupils in different ways to make subjects more interesting. I am passionate about making education enjoyable and fun and I feel that this passion shows in the way I teach. I enjoy good and productive relationships with pupils of all ages and have a supportive manner.

I can also bring excellent organisational and planning skills to the role of Teacher and have a team spirit mentality. I have devoted my spare time to extra-curricular activities and believe that it is any teacher’s role to promote the school within the local community.

I would be delighted to attend for interview to discuss my application further.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely

Supply Teacher cover letter Teaching Assistant Cover Letter

Good luck with your job search and applications. We hope that this example was useful for you and got the job already. Let us know if we can help in any other way too.

Thanks for using icover.org.uk.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

• Recent Posts

• Re-Entering to the Work Force Cover Example - March 13, 2024
• Sample Email Message – for the Volunteer Position and Get the Best Tips on How to Write, With an Example - November 17, 2023
• Barista Cover Letter Example - April 18, 2023

iCover help job seekers fulfil their job aspirations by setting realistic goals and perfect career choices. Our CV writing services shape the candidate’s future to get their dream job. We staff industry experts, always eager to boost your confidence to crack interviews.

Excellent 4.9  out of 5

Company Name – BESTWRITING LTD

File no – 14419413

Quick Links

CV Examples

Resignation

Careers Advice

Job Interviews

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

Birmingham Kent Coventry Nottingham Liverpool London York Portsmouth Bristol Edinburgh Southampton Newcastle

Cambridge Belfast Wolverhampton Livingston Aberdeen Sheffield Oxford Plymouth Cardiff Leeds Bath

24/7 Customer Support

128 city road, london, united kingdom, ec1v 2nx, +44 74764 69125.

© Copyright 2024 iCover

Losing Out On Your Dream Job Due To A Poor CV?

Order a professional cv @ £40.

Write My CV Now!

You have Successfully Subscribed!

• Grades 6-12
• School Leaders

FREE Poetry Worksheet Bundle! Perfect for National Poetry Month.

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.

21 Teacher Resume Examples To Help You Score the Interview

Make a great first impression! Continue Reading

Copyright © 2023. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256

We use cookies to collect information about how you use the National Careers Service. This information is used to make the website work as well as possible and improve our services.

You’ve accepted all cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

beta Complete an independent survey to give us feedback about our website.

• Careers advice
• Cover letters

There is a problem

How to write a cover letter.

A cover letter introduces you to an employer and asks them to think about your application. 

It’s a short letter, usually 3 to 5 paragraphs long.

When to include a cover letter

You should always include a cover letter when you apply for a job using a CV. 

You can write it as an email if you’re applying online or print a copy to go with a paper application.

When writing a cover letter, let the employer know you’re keen by showing that you’ve researched the company. Learn more about what they do through:

• their website
• recent news articles
• talking to people you know who work there

Send it to the right person

It's important to try to address your cover letter to someone by name. Check you have the details of the person you need to send it to. 

You'll need their name and preferred title. For example, ‘Dr’, ‘Mr’, ‘Mrs’, ‘Ms’, and their job title. You should also make sure you have the right company name and address, including postcode.

If you do not know their name

If the job advert does not include a name you can check the company website. Try to find details of the head of the department, head of human resources or a recruitment manager.

If you still cannot find a name, you can start your letter with ‘Dear Sir or Madam’.

Introduction

Introduce yourself and explain how you found the advertised job. You can mention the job title, and reference number if there is one. 

If you’re asking about any job openings and not applying to a vacancy, tell them what sort of job you’re looking for. Let the employer see how keen you are to work for them.

Show you're right for the job

Highlight the skills and experience you have that match what the employer is looking for. 

Convince them that you're enthusiastic about working for them. Let them know you share their work values, culture and style.

Give extra information

If you have gaps in your employment history, you could talk about the skills you gained while you were out of work.

If you’ve mentioned on your CV that you have a disability, you might want to talk more about this in your cover letter. Organisations like Disability UK can give you advice on how to do this. You do not have to mention your disability at this stage if you prefer not to.

You can get more help with specialist advice on finding work if you have a disability.

Ending your cover letter

Thank the employer for considering your application. Let them know that they can get more details from your CV, and tell them you're looking forward to hearing from them.

Let them know how they can best contact you. Make sure your contact details are correct on both your cover letter and CV.

Yours sincerely or yours faithfully

If you know the name of the person you’re writing to, you should end the letter with ‘Yours sincerely’.

If you’ve addressed the letter ‘Dear Sir or Madam’, you should end the letter with ‘Yours faithfully’.

Tips for writing a cover letter

When writing your cover letter, remember to:

• write a new one for every job you apply for and make sure it’s tailored to the company and the specific role
• use the same font and size as you do for your CV, so it looks consistent
• make sure the company name and recruiter’s details are correct
• use the right language and tone: keep it professional and match the keywords used by the employer in their job advert
• show you’ve done your research into the job and the company
• highlight your most relevant skills and experience to stand out from other applicants
• back up any statements you make with facts and use the STAR method
• double check spelling and grammar before you send it
• keep a copy of your cover letter as they may ask you about it in an interview

Related content

How to write a CV

Completing application forms

Interview tips

Create your Europass CV

The Europass CV builder makes it easy to create your CV online. You can use it to apply for a job, education or training opportunities as well as volunteering.

The best-known CV format in Europe

The Europass CV is one of the best-known CV formats in Europe. It is easy-to-use and familiar to employers and education institutions.

You will first have to create your Europass profile with information on your education, training, work experience and skills. After you complete your Europass profile, you can create as many CVs as you want with just a few clicks. Just select which information you want to include, pick your favourite design and Europass will do the rest. 

You can create, store and share CVs in 31 languages . You can download your Europass CV, store it in your Europass Library share it with employers, with  EURES  or other job boards.

How to create a good CV

Remember that your CV is your first opportunity to communicate your skills and experiences to a future employer. It is a snapshot of who you are, your skills, your educational background, work experiences and other achievements.

Present your experience clearly

Highlight examples of your skills and experiences matching the job you are applying for. Pay close attention to the details published in the vacancy notice.

Tailor your CV

Make sure you update the ‘About Me’ section to highlight why you are the best person for the job. Do not include a full detailed history. Focus on facts and main points that match the job you have in mind.

Make it readable

Make sure your CV is easy to read. Use clear and simple language.  Use strong verbs (e.g. ‘managed’, ‘developed’, ‘increased’).

Use reverse chronological order

Always list the most recent experience on the top followed by previous ones. In case of long gaps in working or learning, include an explanation.

Polish and fine-tune

Check for spelling and grammar mistakes, provide a professional e-mail address, and add a professional photograph of yourself.

Your Europass profile

Your Europass profile is the place to keep a record of all your skills, qualifications and experiences. If you keep your Europass profile up-to-date then you will always have all the information you need to create tailored CVs and job applications quickly.

Good luck with your applications!

Find support through EU services

Eures the european job mobility portal, working abroad in other eu countries, education and training in other eu countries, you may be interested to read.

Create your Europass Cover Letter

Develop your skills through volunteering

Managing your personal information in Europass

Share this page.