Your teacher cover letter is your opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm for teaching and your unwavering commitment to fostering a love of learning in your students.
Your cover letter is your chance to showcase your passion for empowering students and meeting their individual needs. We’ll help you create a teacher cover letter that’s not only compelling and engaging but also leaves a lasting impression on potential employers.
Teacher full text-only cover letter example
12 August 2024
Dear Principal McGuire,
Teachers have the unique responsibility of raising the next generation of leaders. Our students don't just shape their own destinies; they shape 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.
My teaching journey began with a Bachelor of Teaching from the University of Auckland in 2001, followed by a Master of Teaching from Victoria University of Wellington in 2004. These foundational experiences laid the groundwork for a fulfilling career that has spanned classrooms in both Christchurch and Wellington. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of guiding high school students through the intricacies of Biology and Chemistry, and fostering a love of learning in primary school students across Maths, English, and Science. Though my passion lies in the sciences, I'm equally adept at crafting engaging lesson plans across the curriculum.
I believe in creating a dynamic and interactive learning environment. I strive to incorporate hands-on activities, real-world examples, and technology into my lessons, ensuring that every student is actively engaged and inspired to explore new ideas. I'm also committed to ongoing professional development, constantly seeking out new teaching strategies and resources to enhance my practice.
My desire to return to Rotorua is rooted in both personal and professional motivations. I long to be closer to my family, and to provide my own children with the same high-quality Rotorua education that shaped my formative years. Returning to my roots also offers me the opportunity to give back to the community that nurtured my own love of learning. I'm eager to connect with local organisations and initiatives, and to help foster a strong sense of community within the school and beyond.
Parua Point Primary School's values align perfectly with my own educational philosophy. I'm particularly drawn to your emphasis on fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. I believe that every child deserves a safe and supportive space where they can express themselves freely, take risks, and celebrate their unique talents and abilities.
Our children are our future, and that means teaching our students core lessons 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 carefully reviewing 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 about my career and understand the goals and objectives of the Parua Point Primary School community. Please find attached my CV. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.
Thank you for your time. I hope to hear from you soon!
Warm regards,
Claire Higgins
Sections of a teacher cover letter
Your teacher cover letter highlights your educational journey and can help employers understand why you’re the ideal candidate for the teaching role. To build an effective cover letter, be sure to include the following sections:
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Header: Include important contact details, including your name, professional email address, phone number, and any links to professional websites.
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Greeting: Personalise your greeting by directly addressing the hiring manager or principal by name.
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Introduction: Your introduction is your opportunity to seize the reader's attention and make a memorable impact. Express your passion for the specific teaching position and the school, and briefly discuss key skills, achievements and details of your professional background.
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Body paragraphs: Elaborate on relevant skills, accomplishments and your professional background. The goal is to craft a story illustrating how your unique qualities align with the school's vision and values.
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Conclusion: End your cover letter by summarising your key qualifications and reiterating your sincere interest in the position. End with a persuasive call to action. Conclude with a strong call to action, such as expressing your desire for an interview to discuss your qualifications further.
- Signature: Sign off with a professional closing, such as “Yours sincerely” or “Ngā mihi,” followed by your name and any relevant credentials.
Your cover letter should be a focused, impactful overview of your qualifications and teaching passion, not an exhaustive career chronicle.
Aim for a single page where each sentence effectively highlights your skills, experience, and commitment to education.
Check out our related cover letter examples to help you craft your teacher cover letter:
For additional insights and professional guidance, be sure to check out our article on how to write a cover letter.
Introduction of a teacher cover letter
In the introduction of your teacher cover letter, make a strong first impression by discussing a significant accomplishment that highlights your teaching excellence, leadership capabilities, or commitment to fostering a positive learning environment.
When detailing your accomplishments, include concrete evidence, quantifiable data, and specific examples. Have you consistently garnered glowing endorsements from students, parents, or colleagues? Initiated a Te Reo Māori initiative for Māori Language Week? These are all excellent examples to lead with in the introduction of your cover letter.
Dear Principal Davis,
I am writing to express my interest in the Intermediate School Teacher position at Kawaha Bay School. Recently, I successfully implemented a Te Ao Māori-infused curriculum in my Year 7 & 8 classroom, resulting in a 15% increase in student engagement and a deeper appreciation for Māori culture. This experience, along with my passion for fostering a love of learning and commitment to culturally responsive teaching, makes me confident in my ability to contribute meaningfully to your school community.
To whom it may concern,
I am a dedicated and passionate teacher with 5 years of experience. I am excited to apply for the Teacher position at your school. I have a strong understanding of the New Zealand Curriculum and am committed to providing a positive learning environment for all students.
A compelling introduction is essential for crafting a standout teacher cover letter as it sets the stage for your application. Use a a professional tone and impactful action verbs to help leave a memorable impression that distinguishes you from other applicants.
12 August 2024
Dear Principal McGuire,
Teachers have the unique responsibility of raising the next generation of leaders. Our students don't just shape their own destinies; they shape 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.
Teacher cover letter body
The body paragraphs of your teacher cover letter should weave a clear and compelling story that engages potential employers. Your cover letter should include the following:
- Highlight your unique skills and accomplishments
- Showcase your passion for teaching and learning
- Articulate your alignment with the school's values and vision
- Conclude your cover letter by expressing your genuine interest in the teaching position and the school
First body paragraph: your suitability for the role (skills & experience)
In the first body paragraph, we recommend highlighting relevant achievements, skills and qualifications, including:
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Teaching experience: Discuss your commitment to education, highlighting specific examples of innovative teaching practices or effective classroom management strategies. Mention any relevant certifications, endorsements, or professional learning you have undertaken. These can include your Teaching Council certifications, subject-specific endorsements, or cultural competency courses and certifications, such as Te Ahu o te Reo Māori or ESOL.
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Leadership skills: Elaborate upon your ability to take initiative, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to a positive school culture. Share examples of leadership roles within the school, involvement in curriculum development, or participation in professional learning communities.
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Technology integration: Highlight your experience using technology to enhance teaching and learning, as this is a crucial skill in today's classrooms. This can include computer skills, adeptness with using learning management systems, such as Google Classrooms or Seasaw, or proficiency in interactive whiteboards and tools.
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Personal qualities and achievements: Highlight any unique qualities, skills, and experiences that distinguish you as a teacher. This could include specific subject expertise, a passion for lifelong learning, or accomplishments that demonstrate your dedication to student well-being and success.
- Community engagement and partnerships: Showcase your ability to build relationships with families and the wider community to support student learning and well-being. This could include examples of organising community events, collaborating with local organisations, or engaging in home-school partnerships.
Carefully review the job description and identify keywords related to skills, qualifications, and experience, integrating these keywords naturally into your cover letter. By optimising your cover letter for the ATS while maintaining a compelling narrative, you increase the chances of being invited for an interview.
Second body paragraph(s): alignment with the organisation
In the second body paragraph of your teacher cover letter, expand on your motivations and wider teaching goals, highlighting how your teaching beliefs and professional vision complement the school's educational philosophy and strategic plan.
When applying for teaching positions, it's essential to thoroughly research the school's mission statement, values, and strategic goals.
For example, St. Cuthbert’s College’s values and mission includes:
- Service and giving back to the community
- Following tradition and being a good citizen
- Being a critical and enterprising thinker
- Empowering young girls to have self-belief
By sharing specific examples demonstrating the synergy between your values and experiences and the school's core principles and objectives, you weave a captivating story that underscores your alignment with the school's mission and your potential to make a significant difference as a teacher within the institution.
“My passion for fostering a love of learning and empowering students to reach their full potential aligns seamlessly with St Cuthbert's College's commitment to academic excellence and holistic development. During my tenure at King’s College, I developed a student-led inquiry project that integrated Te Ao Māori perspectives, resulting in a 60% increase in student engagement. This experience, along with my dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment, reflects my unwavering belief in St Cuthbert's values of community and service.”
Call to action & conclusion: an impressive finish
End your cover letter by highlighting your sincere appreciation for the opportunity to be considered for the teaching position and reiterate your enthusiasm to discuss your qualifications further in an interview.
Reiterate your most relevant strengths, such as your teaching experience, innovative practices, or commitment to culture and community, highlighting how these align with the school's values and educational philosophy.
Finally, finish your cover letter with a professional farewell, such as "Ngā mihi" or "Warm regards," followed by your full name.
After carefully reviewing 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 about my career and understand the goals and objectives of the Parua Point Primary School community. Please find attached my CV. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.
Thank you for your time. I hope to hear from you soon!
Warm regards,
Claire Higgins
Key Takeaways
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