How to write a cover letter for a biology teacher (example)
Updated 22 April 2023
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What is a biology teacher cover letter?
A biology teacher cover letter typically follows the same format and rules as other cover letters but relies upon demonstrating your specific aptitudes for science and teaching. Cover letters are documents which accompany your application, giving you a chance to explain your passion for the position, your experience and your skills in short paragraphs. This acts as an introduction to you as a person, which may not be present in a CV's limited space. This helps hiring managers to learn more about your background and if you would be a good fit for the school's teaching style.Related: How to write a teacher cover letter (with examples)How to write a cover letter for a biology teacher
Knowing the steps for writing a cover letter for a biology teacher helps you to demonstrate your suitability for a job. This helps you compile a letter that appeals directly to hiring managers. This might be the biggest factor in determining if they take another look at your job application. The steps for writing a cover letter include:1. Add relevant contact information
Provide contact information so recruiters can contact you. This information goes at the top of the document below the date and your name. This information typically includes your mobile phone number, email address and postal address. You can add a link to your online professional profile. Check that each detail is accurate for every application.2. Greet the hiring manager
Begin the letter with a formal greeting to the hiring manager. Address them by their name if you know it. For example, you could start with Dear Robert before beginning your introductory paragraph. Knowing a name and including it shows that you researched the school. A friendly yet formal greeting also allows you to build a rapport with the recruiter, which can make the interview more comfortable.Related: How to address a cover letter (with examples)3. Start with a strong opening
The beginning of your cover letter shows the hiring manager what type of person you are. This means some hiring managers, especially if the school receives many applications, may just read the first few sentences of a cover letter before deciding to read on. These sentences are where you introduce yourself and give your main reasons for applying, which may include enthusiasm for the subject, this particular job or the school itself. If you attended the school, for example, mention that, as the staff might remember your time studying there.4. Describe your previous roles and skills
Your second paragraph overviews your achievements and skills, especially in previous roles which relate to teaching or education. Include your time in various school placements. For example, if you made resources on a work placement and the pupils responded well to them, this shows your commitment to teaching and understanding what classes need. Mention your university degree and your Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or an equivalent teaching qualification to show that you have the relevant knowledge. Use the latter to draw upon a wealth of practical experiences, such as teaching in a range of learning environments.Related: How to get teaching experience (plus benefits of doing so)5. Tailor your cover letter
Keep the job posting in mind while you write, as this lets you demonstrate skills or experiences that the school is prioritising. For example, though a strong knowledge of the entire curriculum is beneficial, they might require a teacher with expertise on a certain topic, such as evolution and cell biology. The school could mention other preferences, such as IT skills or experience with specific year groups or students with additional requirements. By tailoring your cover letter to the job's description, you show your suitability for the role.6. End the cover letter
Your cover letter's last paragraph is its conclusion, where you summarise what makes you a strong candidate and thank the hiring manager for their time. Writing a strong conclusion helps to showcase your abilities in writing and communication, both of which are key skills for any teacher. When ending the cover letter, note that you look forward to hearing from them. This reinforces your interest and reminds them to contact you. You could also specify the way you prefer they get in touch, such as over the phone.Related: How to end a cover letterCover letter tips for biology teaching positions
Other tips for writing a teacher cover letter include:- Be concise. Keeping your cover letter short ensures that the hiring manager reads it and conveys your ability to condense information.
- Proofread. Read the document over repeatedly and use proofreading software to help, as this can reveal ways to further improve your writing. You can discuss this attention to detail as a strength which aids lesson planning later on during the application process.
- Show confidence. Your cover letter is a chance to demonstrate your self-confidence and show how you would be a suitable candidate. Outline the reasons why you think you can bring value to the school.
- Research the school. Schools have differing priorities, standards and expectations, so research the institution to align your writing with these values. Schools may interview many qualified candidates but ultimately choose the one with the most similar style.
Biology teacher cover letter template
Here's a template for structuring a biology teacher cover letter:[First name] [Last name], [Degree or certification if applicable][Phone number] | [Email address] | [City][Date][Company name]Dear [Hiring manager's first name] [Hiring manager's last name],[Express excitement for the position including the role title and the company name]. [Introduce yourself by explaining why you're applying for the job and how the job aligns with your career goals and what specifically draws you to the company].[Explain your relevant experience and qualifications without repeating what's in your CV]. [Highlight one to two relevant achievements with facts and data when possible]. [Explain why you'd be a good fit for the company]. [Optional - address employment gap or career transition].[Express gratitude]. [Summarise qualification]. [Restate interest in the role]. [Call to action + availability and preferred contact method][Complimentary close],
[Signature]
Biology teacher cover letter example
Here is an example of how you might fill in this template:Chloe Moran, BSc (Hons) Biology07123456789 | chloe.moran@example.com | Blackpool26/10/22Layton Technology CollegeDear Sarah Clifford,I'm excited to apply for the Biology Teacher position at Layton Technology College, especially as a prior student who would love to be part of the same department that inspired me to pursue the subject at university. I'm interested in teaching biology because it allows me to use my pre-existing skills and experience with the subject to educate the next generation. I recently completed my secondary PGCE Biology qualification, which included placements across a range of Lancashire secondary schools as a supervised student teacher.Although my time at each school was short, I made a strong impression on the students wherever possible. My original worksheets helped to target class-wide and individual shortcomings. I have a passion for helping others reach their full potential and believe I could match the strong standards set by Layton Technology College's new outstanding rating. Since finishing my PGCE, I have been busy acquiring further online certificates and completing various teaching-related courses.Thank you very much for your time and consideration. With strong references from all my previous mentors and a clear dedication to improving my teaching experience, I would be an excellent asset to the biology department at Layton Technology College. I hope to hear from you soon, preferably over email, so we could discuss this in more detail.Sincerely,
Chloe MoranPlease note that none of the companies, institutions or organisations mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.
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