Whether you’re an Early Career Teacher (ECT), a seasoned classroom professional, or returning to education after a career break, your CV is your first chance to make a lasting impression on a Headteacher or School Leadership Team.
But what does a perfect teaching CV look like?
At Zest Education, we’ve helped thousands of teachers secure their dream roles across the UK, be that full-time or on a supply basis.
Here’s our expert breakdown of how to craft a compelling CV that gets noticed – backed by trusted advice from educational authorities and our own recruitment insights.
1. Start With Strong Personal Details
What to include:
- Full name and professional title (e.g. KS2 Primary Teacher or Secondary English Specialist)
- Address (you can list the general area or postcode if preferred)
- Mobile number and professional email address
- Link to a well-maintained LinkedIn profile (yes, schools do check!)
Tip: Use keywords like “Qualified Teacher,” “Primary School Teacher in Birmingham,” or “Secondary Maths Teacher with QTS” near the top.
2. Write a Punchy Personal Statement
This is your “elevator pitch” – three to five sentences summarising your experience, ethos, and what makes you a great teacher.
Do:
- Highlight your Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or Early Career Teacher status
- Mention any curriculum strengths or specialisms (e.g. SEND, phonics, safeguarding)
- Keep it enthusiastic and tailored for the type of role you want
Example:
“Enthusiastic and reflective Early Career Teacher with a passion for creative KS1 teaching. Trained in Read Write Inc. phonics and experienced with mixed-ability classrooms. Committed to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.”
3. Focus on Relevant Teaching Experience
Start with your most recent experience first. Break down your responsibilities and achievements clearly.
Structure:
- Job title
- Name of school, location, and dates
- Key duties and achievements (use bullet points)
Highlight:
- Year groups taught
- Subjects and schemes of work
- Use of assessment frameworks (e.g. formative, summative)
- Ofsted ratings (if positive)
- Inclusion strategies (e.g. EAL, SEND)
Tip: According to the Department for Education (DfE), schools value applicants who demonstrate clear impact on pupil progress, so include outcomes where you can. (Source: DfE Teacher Recruitment and Retention Strategy)
4. Education and Qualifications
List your degrees, teacher training, and any additional CPD or safeguarding training.
Include:
- Degree(s) and awarding institutions
- Initial Teacher Training (PGCE, School Direct, SCITT etc.)
- QTS status (a must!)
- Recent CPD (e.g. behaviour management, DSL training, mental health in schools)
Tip: If you trained internationally, make sure to highlight any UK equivalency (via NARIC/ENIC if applicable).
5. Skills and Specialisms
This is where you can shine a light on the tools, strategies, and areas of strength you bring to a school.
Examples:
- Behaviour management (e.g. Positive Behaviour Support, restorative practice)
- Differentiation and adaptive teaching
- Curriculum planning (EYFS Framework, National Curriculum)
- Use of tech in the classroom (Google Classroom, Seesaw, interactive whiteboards)
Tip: Include any pastoral roles or extra-curricular leadership, such as running a school club or being a staff governor.
6. References
You can include:
- “Available upon request” – totally acceptable
- Or name referees if you’re confident they’ll be contacted
Make sure one is your current or most recent Headteacher or Mentor.
Top Tips from Zest Education Recruiters
💬 “Tailor your CV to the job. Generic applications get generic results.”
💬 “Keep it to no more than two pages – be concise but relevant.”
💬 “Spellcheck – and then ask someone else to proof it!”
💬 “Use action words: led, created, improved, supported, differentiated…”
💬 “If you’re applying via an agency like Zest, we can help tailor your CV to specific schools.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Too much detail on irrelevant jobs
🚫 Using jargon schools won’t understand
🚫 Leaving unexplained gaps in employment
🚫 Overloading with buzzwords and no substance
🚫 Forgetting to show impact (what changed because of you?)
Final Thoughts
Schools are under pressure to hire teachers who not only know their stuff but also fit their school community. Your CV is your first chance to show you’re that person. It’s worth investing the time to make it excellent.
If you’d like expert feedback on your CV or help finding your next teaching job, we’d love to hear from you.
Download our CV-checklist here
Zest Education is an award winning recruitment agency specialising in education recruitment, supplying teaching and support staff to educational settings across London, Staffordshire and the West Midlands.
Since 2014 Zest Education has been using their vast experience to build genuine relationships, making perfect matches for candidates and schools and ensuring the best results for everyone.
For further information on how Zest Education Ltd. can support your school, please visit www.zesteducation.co.uk
