At cvapp.nz, our mission is to provide support to teachers and educators, empowering them to secure their next job opportunity and unlock limitless possibilities for career growth. Whether it's crafting a standout cover letter or refining your interview skills, we're committed to helping you navigate your professional journey with confidence and success.
All effective cover letters contain the following sections:
When you’ve finished with your cover letter, it should look a little something like this:
Dear Principal McGuire,
Teachers have the unique responsibility of raising the next generation of leaders. Our students become the architects of their own futures, but also the future of New Zealand. As a teacher, I am always aware of the responsibility that comes with educating our students. I am both deeply excited and inspired to apply for a teaching position at Parua Point Primary School.
To begin, we’ll explore how to create an engaging cover letter header:
It's important to craft a header that captures attention, conveys professionalism, and includes important contact information. Your cover letter header should be meticulously organised and visually appealing, reflecting your attention to detail and dedication to the role. In addition to your name and contact details, consider including relevant information such as your teaching certifications, academic qualifications, and any affiliations with professional organisations. By presenting this information neatly and efficiently, you can make a strong first impression and demonstrate your commitment to excellence in your teaching career.
Refining your cover letter header not only showcases your commitment to professionalism but also enhances the likelihood of captivating the recruiter's attention. By crafting a compelling header, you leave a lasting first impression that entices employers to delve deeper into your qualifications, positioning you as a formidable candidate for the teaching position.
While the greeting may seem like a small aspect of the cover letter, it holds significant weight in terms of setting the tone for the rest of your application. As a teacher, it is crucial to select an appropriate and professional greeting that demonstrates your respect for the position and the individuals who will be reviewing your application. A well-chosen greeting not only reflects your professionalism but also highlights your attention to detail and understanding of professional norms within the education sector. It shows that you have taken the time to research and understand the expectations of a cover letter, which can greatly impress potential employers. To ensure your greeting is appropriate, professional and personalised, it's a great idea to address employers by their proper titles and last names, such as "Dear Mr. Baker" or "Dear Dr. Jones."
Check out the example below:
Dear Principal McGuire,
Your cover letter introduction is your opportunity to engage and impress employers, encouraging them to learn more about you. To engage and impress employers effectively, your cover letter introduction should begin with a compelling hook. This could be a personal anecdote that highlights your passion for teaching, a thought-provoking statement about the education field, or a brief mention of a notable achievement or relevant experience. By starting with something captivating, you immediately grab the reader's attention and make them eager to explore the contents of your application in more detail. Additionally, the introduction is an ideal place to highlight your enthusiasm for the specific teaching position you are applying for. Expressing genuine interest in the school, its educational philosophy, or any unique programs they offer can demonstrate your dedication and compatibility with their values and goals. In summary, the cover letter introduction is a critical moment to engage and impress employers. By crafting an attention-grabbing hook, expressing genuine interest in the position, and aligning your qualifications with the job requirements, you can effectively seize this opportunity to pique the employer's interest and encourage them to explore your application further.
Teachers have the unique responsibility of raising the next generation of leaders. Our students become the architects of their own futures, but also the future of New Zealand. As a teacher, I am always aware of the responsibility that comes with educating our students. I am both deeply excited and inspired to apply for a teaching position at Parua Point Primary School.
Your body paragraphs should highlight your professional background as a teacher, and expand on any relevant career skills or experiences you can offer to the potential job role. To create impactful body paragraphs, start by outlining your teaching experience, emphasising key achievements and responsibilities. Highlight any specific teaching methods you have utilised successfully or any innovative approaches you have employed to engage students and promote optimal learning outcomes. Describing your experience in detail not only demonstrates your expertise and competence but also provides concrete evidence of your ability to contribute to the potential job role.
Additionally, this is an appropriate space to elaborate on any relevant qualifications or certifications you possess, such as specialised training in differentiated instruction, technology integration, or any other area that aligns with the requirements of the position. By highlighting these qualifications, you further establish your suitability for the role and showcase your commitment to professional growth. When discussing career skills, be sure to align them with the requirements outlined in the job description. For example, if the position requires strong communication and collaboration skills, provide examples of how you have effectively collaborated with colleagues, parents, or other stakeholders in the past. By showing the hiring committee that you possess the precise skills they are seeking, you increase your chances of standing out from other candidates.
I received my Bachelor of Teaching from the University of Auckland in 2001 and my Master of Teaching from Victoria University of Wellington in 2004. I have taught in Christchurch and Wellington and now I am looking to return to Rotorua to be closer to my family. I would also like my children to receive a high-quality Rotorua education as I did when I was a student.
Our children are our future, and that means teaching our students the right information and skills is incredibly important. In my previous positions, I have taught high school students Biology and Chemistry, and primary school students Maths, English and Science. Although I have a preference for the sciences, I can also prepare classroom plans that are centred around Maths and English.
After researching the Parua Point Primary School values, I am confident that I will be a great fit for the Parua Point school community. I would love to talk with you to discuss more details around my career and understand the goals and objectives of the Parua Point Primary School community. Please find attached my CV, as well as reference details from my previous employers.
In closing your cover letter, it is important to reiterate the value you can bring to the role and leave a lasting impression on the hiring committee. The concluding paragraph serves as your final opportunity to reinforce your suitability as a candidate and thank the reader for considering your application. As for the farewell, it is essential to choose an appropriate closing that matches the context of the job application, such as “ngā mihi,” “best wishes,” or “kind regards.”
Just like that – you’ve got a job-winning teacher’s cover letter!
Thank you for your time. I hope to hear from you soon.
Warm regards,
Claire Higgins