Crafting a Standout Job Application as a New Grad Teacher

Starting your teaching career as a new grad is an exciting adventure. However, in a competitive job market, creating a standout job application that shines out amongst the crowd of applicants is crucial. 

 

This post will provide you with practical tips and tricks to help your application shine. We will focus on making a strong first impression, showcasing your unique superpowers, and tackling any imposter syndrome that pops up head-on.

Make a Memorable First Impression

Perfect Your Resume

Your resume is the first point of contact with potential employers. Ensure it’s well-organised, error-free, and highlights your relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications. Tailor it to the specific job you’re applying for.

 

Pro tip: Ask a friend (preferably a teacher friend) to read over it for you to look for typos or errors.

Write a Stellar Cover Letter

A compelling cover letter introduces you and your passion for teaching. Address it to the hiring manager, express your enthusiasm for the role, and briefly mention what makes you unique, and how your skills + teaching style align with the school ethos. 

 

Pro tip: Put your draft cover letter into Chat GPT or another AI tool and ask them to read it and improve it so it stands out from the crowd. 

Professional Online Presence

Review your social media profiles to ensure they present you in a professional light. Clean up any unprofessional content, and consider showcasing your teaching philosophy, accomplishments, and interests related to education. 

 

Showcase Your Unique Superpowers

Highlight Relevant Skills

Incorporate key teaching skills in your application. Emphasise your ability to create engaging lesson plans, manage classrooms effectively, and adapt teaching methods to diverse learners.

 

Pro tip: Brainstorm all your amazing qualities, achievements and experiences. Anything that pops into your head, jot it down. This reflection task will be the basis of writing a killer cover letter and CV.

Share Success Stories

Use concrete examples of your experiences as a student teacher or during practicum placements. Describe how you successfully handled classroom challenges, helped students overcome obstacles, or created a positive learning environment.

 

Pro tip: Have a story that illustrates this ready for when you get to the interview stage. 

Extracurricular Involvement

If you’ve been involved in school clubs, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities related to teaching, mention them. These experiences demonstrate your commitment to education beyond the classroom.

 

Pro tip: Divide your work experience into two categories on your CV: Child-related experience and Other work experience. 

Set yourself apart

Tailor Your Application for Each Job

Every teaching position is unique, so customise your application for each job you apply for. Highlight specific skills, experiences, or qualifications that align with the school’s mission and the role’s requirements.

 

Pro tip: Review the school’s online presence (website, socials, linked in) before you apply and again before your interview. What is important to them, and how do you align with that?

Proofread and Edit Thoroughly

Grammar and spelling errors can detract from your application’s professionalism. Review your documents carefully, and consider having someone else proofread them to catch any overlooked mistakes.

 

Pro tip: Use an online tool like ‘Grammarly’ to help you. 

Follow Up

After submitting your application, send a polite follow-up email to express your continued interest in the position. This shows your enthusiasm and proactive attitude.

Tackle Imposter Syndrome with Confidence

Acknowledge Your Achievements

Imposter syndrome is common among new grad teachers. Counter it by reflecting on your accomplishments. Recognise that you’ve completed your teacher training and are ready to make a meaningful impact. 

Pro tip: Create a personal mantra to help you tackle your imposter syndrome head-on. Example: I am qualified, I am confident, I am passionate and ready to take on this challenge.

Seek Mentorship

Connect with experienced teachers or mentors who can provide guidance and support. They can offer valuable advice and reassure you of your capabilities. 

 

Pro tip: We run an online mentorship membership that supports new teachers in precisely this. Learn more here. 

Remember, as a new graduate teacher, you bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the field. Your application should convey your dedication to education, your willingness to learn and grow, and your potential to positively impact students’ lives. 

 

Best of luck. We can’t wait to hear all about your new job!

 

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Are you in the process of applying for jobs? We have put together a fun bingo board for you to work through and keep you motivated.

Grab your FREE copy here.

 

Like many things in teaching, it pays off when you are prepared and ready for anything that might be thrown your way.

That is why we created The Dream Job Guide. It includes loads of information, professional tips, and templates to help you write applications and attend interviews with confidence and ease.

Let us help you stand out from the crowd when applying for your dream teaching job! Find it here.

 

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