Effective job search for teachers

Effective job search for teachers

After a tough 18 months, the world is opening up and teachers are once again on the move and looking for the next step in their career. If this is on your agenda we know it can be a pretty daunting prospect, so we’ve compiled some handy tips to help you prepare for your job search.

Update your CV and get your personal statement ready

Your teaching CV should be clear, easy to read and well structured. Keep your CV up to date and be sure to tailor it for each of the roles you are applying for; you want all relevant qualifications and experience for that particular role to be front and centre. Don’t forget to share details of any extracurricular skills you can offer; list the activities you’ve organised or supported. 

As part of the application you’ll likely need to submit a personal statement, this should demonstrate how and why you teach and who you are as a person. As with your CV, tailor your application to the specific school and what they’re looking for. Be sure to get your personal statement proofread, you really don’t want any spelling mistakes! Convey your passion for teaching and evidence your success.

Review your social media profiles

When was the last time you checked the privacy settings on your social media pages, or reviewed those pages for any potentially “dodgy” photos from your past? As an educator you’re probably particularly careful with your social media, you know how students enjoy a social stalk of their teacher. However, your future employer could also take a look at your profiles and you really want them to have the best impression of you before you set foot through the door. Now is the time to double check your social media, any blogs, or personal websites; remove any content that’s no longer appropriate and review for relevance the content which shows your skills and passion for extracurricular. 

Do your research

It’s important to research the places you’re applying to and avoid sending the same application to multiple colleges or commercial training providers; the heads of department or centre managers will spot this and it will suggest you’re just looking for a job anywhere! Instead you should choose the institutions you would like to work with carefully, think about why you want to work with them, what you can bring to the role and include all this information in your cover letter. Using this more personal approach will make your application stand out, you won’t just be another CV arriving in the head of departments inbox!

Stay organised

Record every application and all the related research as you go along. You never know when you may need it again. Keep a note of when applications have been made, and when you can expect to hear back. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback if you’re unsuccessful. This can often provide valuable insight and give you pointers when it comes to improving your applications.

Of course, if you sign up with a specialist education recruitment agency, they can do the leg work of finding a new role for you; agencies often have close relationships with colleges and commercial training providers. So, if you’d like help to find your next teaching role, why not get in touch with Education StaffBank and see how we can help. Visit our website or call 0117 334 3777.