A short guide on what to write in your cover letter.

1. Your cover letter
A simple guide

2. Objectives
• To provide you with advice, skills and resources
for advancing your career in (or out of) education
• This session will enable you to structure a concise
cover letter

3. The job application process
Career planning and sourcing jobs
• Personal strengths and attributes; print media and
online; networking
Applying for suitable jobs
• Cover letter, CV, selection criteria
Securing the right job
• 1st and 2nd Interview, try-out, testing

4. Applying for suitable jobs
Purpose: To get short-listed for interview
What Objective Perspective
Cover letter Demonstrate you can write, spell, Personal voice, sense
research the school, structure a of self
coherent and compelling argument
CV (resume) Detail your relevant skills, knowledge Legal document,
and experience. Meet the job objective and
requirements verifiable
Key selection criteria Express your role-specific views Theory and
clearly, provide discussion points for philosophy, backed up
interview with evidence of past
behaviour

5. Career planning
• Consider these factors:
– What am I good at?
– What do I enjoy most?
– What feedback do I get from others?
– What has my career progression been so far?
– Where do I want to be in 5 – 10 years’ time?
– What do I need (to do/have/be) to get there?
– What environment will support the above factors?

6. Knowing your brand
Lifestyle Hopes,
dreams and
aspirations
Imagination
Liberty
Innovation
regained
Simplicity Passion

7. What are you known for?

8. The cover letter translated
Introduction (2-3 lines):
• This is why I am writing to you and it will be worth your
while.
Body (2 concise paragraphs):
• I can bring the following attributes to the role. My previous
achievements are an indicator of my future potential.
• This is why I would like to work at your school.
• Cite examples.
Conclusion (2-3 lines):
• By now you should want to read my CV if you haven’t
already and you should be dying to meet me.
• I am serious about wanting the job and want to meet you.

9. The cover letter – key points
• Make it specific to the job description
• Refer to the school you are applying to by name
• Address it to the Principal by name e.g. Mr Wilkins
• Give examples of model practice and innovative
teaching styles
• Address all requirements of the selection criteria
• Outline your ambitions & interests
• Keep to 1 page if possible, 2 for leadership
positions

10. Example - Introduction
Dear Dr. Hicks,
I would like to apply for the position of Physics
and General Science teacher, currently
advertised on the SchoolJobs website. I attach a
copy of my Curriculum Vitae for your reference.

11. Example – 1st paragraph
In my present role I have taught across a variety
of year levels, from Middle School to senior
classes. I have received outstanding feedback
from my mentor and Head of Department, both
of whom are required to observe lessons as part
of our professional learning program. Last year,
3 of my final year students obtained the highest
mark, and over 35% of the class achieved over
80% in their final exam.

12. Example – 2nd paragraph
I have played an extensive role in the co-
curricular aspects of school life. For the past two
years I have coached the Year 10 hockey team,
who this season won the Premiership. In
addition, I have accompanied numerous
excursions and provided support to the Music
and Drama departments for their major annual
productions.

13. Example – Conclusion
I am now seeking a new challenge in my career,
with a view to leading a Science Faculty over the
coming years. I consider myself an excellent fit
for your school’s values and strengths and hope
that you will afford me the opportunity to
expand at interview on how I would contribute
to all aspects of school life and make a positive
impact on your students’ development.

14. Conclusions
• Remember, a good cover letter makes a
connection between what you have to offer
and what the school wants/needs.
• Applying for jobs is an exercise in selling
– Know what you are selling
– Ensure it is what people want
• If in doubt, ask someone for feedback on your
application

15. To download this presentation
register at www.schooljobs.com.au
For more information about
Steve Whittington see
www.oxfordeducation.com.au