The role of a High School Teacher is more than just instructing students; it is about shaping the minds of tomorrow. High school teachers are responsible for delivering curriculum-based lessons, fostering critical thinking, supporting students’ personal development, and creating a positive learning environment. With an average UK salary ranging from £25,714 for newly qualified teachers to upwards of £41,604 for senior roles, the position offers both professional growth and rewarding experiences. Crafting an interview-winning CV is the first step to securing your dream teaching position.
Why a Strong CV Matters for High School Teachers
Your CV is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. For a High School Teacher, it is crucial to highlight not only your academic qualifications but also your teaching philosophy, classroom management skills, and achievements that demonstrate your ability to engage and inspire students. A well-structured CV can make the difference between being shortlisted for an interview and being overlooked, no matter how impressive your experience.
Key Components of a High School Teacher CV Template
When creating a High School Teacher CV, certain elements are essential:
Personal Details: Include your full name, contact details, and professional online presence such as LinkedIn.
Professional Summary: A concise, engaging paragraph summarising your teaching experience, core skills, and career objectives.
Education: List your degrees, teaching certifications, and relevant professional development courses.
Teaching Experience: Detail your previous roles, responsibilities, and achievements. Focus on measurable outcomes such as improved student grades, successful extracurricular initiatives, or innovative teaching methods.
Skills: Highlight classroom management, lesson planning, assessment strategies, and digital literacy.
Professional Memberships and Awards: Include memberships with educational boards or teaching associations.
References: Provide referees who can vouch for your teaching abilities.
For a practical example, refer to our cv template for a clear visual structure that will help you stand out.
Tailoring Your CV for Success
It’s crucial to customise your CV for the High School Teacher role you are applying for. Research the school, understand the subjects they prioritise, and match your skills to their needs. For instance, if a school emphasises STEM education, highlight your experience and achievements in maths or science classes. Using a targeted cv example can provide a useful guide for structuring content effectively.
Writing a Compelling Professional Summary
The professional summary is your opportunity to make an immediate impact. For a High School Teacher CV, consider including:
Your teaching experience and specialisation
Key achievements, such as exam results improvements or award-winning projects
Your approach to classroom management and student engagement
Example: “Passionate High School Teacher with 7 years’ experience in delivering engaging lessons in English and History. Proven track record in raising student attainment and fostering a supportive learning environment.”
Highlighting Achievements and Responsibilities
When detailing your teaching experience, focus on achievements rather than just duties. Employers value measurable outcomes. Include examples like:
Increased student exam pass rates by 20% over two years
Implemented a new STEM curriculum that improved engagement and participation
Mentored new teachers and led professional development workshops
These accomplishments demonstrate your effectiveness and leadership potential.
Education and Professional Development
For a High School Teacher, education is a vital part of your CV. Include:
Degree(s) relevant to your teaching subject(s)
PGCE or equivalent teaching qualification
Ongoing professional development courses
Emphasising professional development shows your commitment to lifelong learning, an attractive quality for any school.
Skills Section for Maximum Impact
Your skills section should blend hard and soft skills. Examples for a High School Teacher include:
Curriculum development and lesson planning
Classroom management and behaviour strategies
Student assessment and data analysis
Digital learning tools (Google Classroom, MS Teams, etc.)
Communication and interpersonal skills
Use bullet points for clarity and readability.
Tailored Advice for Graduates
If you are a recent graduate entering the teaching profession, focus on:
Student teaching placements and practical classroom experience
Academic achievements and relevant coursework
Extra-curricular involvement, such as mentoring or volunteering
Personal qualities like adaptability, enthusiasm, and commitment
Even without extensive work experience, a carefully crafted CV can showcase your potential.
Advice for Middle and Senior Management Teachers
For teachers seeking middle leadership (Head of Department) or senior leadership roles (Deputy Head, Headteacher), the CV should emphasise:
Leadership and strategic planning experience
Staff mentoring and development
Budget and resource management
Curriculum innovation and impact on school performance
Evidence of improving student outcomes across multiple cohorts
Highlighting management achievements alongside teaching expertise is crucial for these roles.
General CV Structure Tips
Keep your CV to 2 pages for early-career roles; up to 3 pages for senior roles
Use clear headings and bullet points for readability
Quantify achievements wherever possible
Tailor your CV to the specific school and role
Proofread meticulously to avoid spelling or grammar errors
Refer to our High School Teacher CV template for a polished example of these principles in action.
Do’s and Don’ts for a High School Teacher CV
Do’s:
Do customise your CV for each application
Do include measurable achievements
Do use professional, concise language
Do focus on student outcomes and teaching impact
Do provide credible references
Don’ts:
Don’t exaggerate your experience or qualifications
Don’t include irrelevant personal information
Don’t leave gaps unexplained
Don’t use generic templates without tailoring
Don’t neglect the visual layout; a clean, professional look is vital
Closing Thoughts
Creating a standout High School Teacher CV requires careful attention to detail, a focus on achievements, and a clear presentation of skills and experience. Whether you are a recent graduate or a senior leader, your CV should convey your unique strengths and dedication to student success. By following the tips above and using a professional cv template, you will greatly improve your chances of securing that crucial interview.
Take control of your career today. Book an appointment with us to have your CV and LinkedIn profile professionally improved and maximise your chances of landing your dream teaching role: Book an Appointment.
