Top 5 things to include in a job application for ECTs

Getting that first teaching role is a landmark for any Early Career Teacher (ECT), enabling you to take those initial steps into the world of education. But knowing what to include in an application can be a challenge.

Here we explore what you should include within your CVs and cover letters to give yourself the best chance of making a great first impression. Ultimately, this can help to land an interview, as your application is your opportunity to really stand out from the crowd!

1. Have you made it abundantly clear why you want the role?

It may sound obvious, but always make sure that your enthusiasm for the role shines through in your application. Refer to the role by name early on, mention where you saw it advertised, and detail why it appeals to you. Talk about specific parts of the job description that are of interest, but don’t feel the need to exaggerate, as such claims could be easily picked apart during an interview.

2. Have you included all key information you might need?

Your application for an ECT role is your chance to sell what's great about you. Think about what might set you apart from somebody else, like where and when you gain qualified teacher status, or any relevant experience you might already have. This is especially important if you have very specific classroom experience, such as having worked with children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) during your training.

Be sure to include your academic qualifications, including GCSE results in key subjects such as English, maths and the sciences. Any knowledge of learning platforms or technologies which could enhance teaching should also feature prominently in your application.

3. Have you used the right examples?

When discussing any experience in the classroom or elsewhere, it should be backed up with a minimum of one real-world example.

Give careful consideration to whether the examples you include are the best ones to use. You’ll undoubtedly have a number of different options from your time in training to discuss, so when you read back through your application, make sure the examples you have chosen are the strongest for demonstrating your experience.

4. Is the CAR approach seen in your examples?

Often used in interviews as a means of ensuring a question is adequately answered, an ECT can also use the CAR (Context, Action, and Result) approach in their application. Use clear and concise language to provide the context of any situation, before detailing the actions you took and the results. This is a fantastic way for you to showcase the impact you’ve had in the classroom and highlight what makes you the ideal candidate for a role.

5. Have you used simple language?

A key thing to keep in mind for ECT job applications is readability. Do your answers make sense when reading them back, or could you structure them differently to have a greater impact? Are some key outcomes missing?

Make sure you look at an application several times before sending it to ensure that any errors are amended. If you can, try to check it on two different days, but if time doesn’t allow, always proofread it one final time before sending, as spelling and grammar mistakes will count against you.

If you’re on the hunt for an ECT role, remember to keep your application simple. It should tell a school all they need to know, answer any questions, and be packed with shining examples of teaching best practice. Ultimately, this should ensure that you’ve given yourself the best possible chance of landing an interview.