5 things to think about when you’re writing your teacher training application
A successful teacher training application is not about listing all of your school experience. What’s most important is communicating your passion for teaching and the skills you have which will enable you to be a great teacher.
At Ebor Teaching Schools Alliance, we think that these five things are important when writing a teacher training application:
1. We are looking for the potential to teach, not established teachers
We’re looking for candidates who can communicate their ideas, someone who is creative within their specialism and a team player. These are some of the characteristics that make an outstanding teacher, so use examples where you have demonstrated these skills. There are many cross-disciplinary skills which you can use to enhance your application; these may not be examples from a classroom.
2. Be passionate about your subject
We want to know why you want to teach your subject. Why is it interesting? What is unique about teaching your subject? Draw upon what you have seen in schools here.
3. Communication skills are important!
We understand that you might not have led a group of students in a classroom. However, there will be situations where you a have communicated your ideas clearly. We’re looking for you to draw upon these experiences and use these examples in your application.
4. Give an example of when you have been resilient
One of the most important attributes for a teacher today is resilience. Teaching is a challenging yet rewarding career. Tell us about how you have overcome potential barriers and what you learnt from this experience.
5. Be yourself!
If you are passionate about giving all young people access to an excellent education, say it! Don’t forget to write about why you want to be a teacher and your reasoning behind the choice.
Beth Hartwell (@teachforlearn), Director of Initial Teacher Training (Secondary), Ebor Teaching Schools Alliance, York (@EborTSA)
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