please could you give me some advice. i am applying for a teacher assistant job in my area and it says that i have to put in a covering letter. i dont know what it is and what i have to put in it.

thankyou for taking time in reading this


dolphin

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basically the letter highlights the relevant/experience on your CV and is an intro to prospective employers

If you have a person spec or list of competancies they are asking you to explain how you meet these. They are usually listed as essentials and desirables. You need to try and match all the essentials, desirables are bonuses.

A common one is communication, try and give specific examples of how you have used your communication skills to get a positive outcome. Also keep it specific to you.

Avoid terms like 'as a team we' and use examples like 'I did...'

If all you have is the job description then you need to demonstrate you can do the job. Again by giving specific examples of similar things you have done.

Assumedly you are applying by CV, this gives your qualifications and work history. The CV is your chance to demonstrate you have the skills/knowledge desired by the employer.

it says that as well as filling in the application form i have to do a covering letter to go with it


dolphin

Oh okay

That is unusual, normally the point of application forms is it gives the information in a standard format which makes it easier to assess different candidates.

If what is expected in the cover letter is not clear then either give the local lea or the school a ring and ask for clarification.

in that case it probably just needs to say the bare minimum, with a couple of paragraphs highlighting your relevant experience

In your letter highlight why you think you are right for the position. Be positive, highlight any relevant experience i.e volunteered within a school, what responsibilities you have had. Read the JD and underline on it areas you have experience in, make note in themargin of the experience,this helps yougetyour headroundit.



Sorry about the spacingmy space bar hasgiven up.

Put a few outside interests especially those that maybe of use in school like gardening and art and crafts Don't write more than about a page having been on the other side of applications it is better to have a short and sweet letter to learn a little more about you than a long winded ramble.GET SOMEONE TO PROOF READ IT! It is surprising how many people don't including Heads!

Thank you all for your help. i really appreciated.

Dolphin