I was extremely organised about the whole application process, but then again that’s me, lists and to-do lists to keep myself organised. Something I found beneficial to keep tabs of the different jobs I wanted to apply for and starting dates, application closing dates etc was to open a spreadsheet. This consisted of a table for the name of the school, address, what way they would like the application to be sent on (email/post), what had to be included in the application, closing date, starting date and any side notes (if they want a teacher to be dipped, with music, sport etc).
After that I set about my cv and making sure I had included any relevant information in it. Unless I had any work experience regarding education, working with children, or ways that could benefit the school I left it out. There really is no point stating that you babysat your neighbour's kids or that you won first place in an art competition in 4th class (I’m not being mean, someone actually did include that in an application to one of my previous schools). Cv’s should not be longer than 3 pages and should be precise and to the point. When I initially finished college I included my grades from TP and my exam results as well as my Leaving Cert results. After some years teaching experience I swapped this for a list of schools I had worked in and classes I had taught.
For your letter of application, it should also be very short and to the point, your teaching experience and what you hope to bring to the school.
Standard application forms are the trickiest part and for me was where I spent most of my time. Any schools that I was particularly interested in I spent a lot of time researching and taking notes on. Nothing impresses a principal more than noticing how you took the time to look into the school.
One question on the application form asks how your experience and skills can benefit the school. For teachers who have a year or more experience in a school whether it be subbing or if you were actually employed in the school, make sure you state anything you were involved in in this box. For example, if I were to write it I would include how I helped set up Aistear, SALF Folders, Ready Set Maths, Literacy Lift Off in previous schools and how I’ve had classes winning Creative Schools Awards and drama competitions. This is no time to be shy, you must believe yourself you are the best person for the job. Outside of school experience or if you are just newly qualified ensure to state any talent you have whether it be IT, music, drama, art, sports, creative writing etc. Principals like a well-rounded staff so they always hope to see some new talents and skills being brought to the table.
To be able to answer how you can contribute to the ethos of the school you really need to check the mission statement of the school and read up about what the ethos of the school is. As regards the success this should be found easily enough on the school’s website on the home page or the gallery as no school is going to hide any success that they have had. You must try and find ways in which your skills and talents and who you are as a teacher can fit in with this school.
For references try your best to get one from a college lecturer, a principal or teacher from a previous school you have taught or done TP in.
Hope this helps guys...
Sarah :)
