How to Write the Perfect SEND Teaching Assistant Cover Letter
21 Dec, 20231-2 minutes
In this blog, you will learn
- Why a cover letter is important.
- How to write the perfect SEND Teaching Assistant cover letter.
- Where the latest SEND Teaching Assistant jobs are and how to apply for them.
Crafting a detailed and impressive Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Teaching Assistant cover letter is essential to make a great impression but it can feel like a tedious step in the job application process.
If you’re applying for a SEND Teaching Assistant job, it’s likely that you will be asked for a professional cover letter.
According to a recent study by Resume Genius, 78% of recruiters and hiring managers prefer applicants to submit a cover letter. Most education positions require a cover letter to help make filtering applications quicker and to show the professionalism of each candidate.
However, it can be difficult to know what to include and what elements make the perfect SEND Teaching Assistant cover letter.
This guide provides tips and examples to help you write the perfect cover letter that highlights your experience effectively to convince the hiring manager to invite you for an interview.
Why is a cover letter important?
A cover letter is an important tool that lets candidates demonstrate their skills and work experience to meet employer’s expectations. Similar to a personal statement, a cover letter allows candidates to elaborate on key points and give more context to their CV.
Remember that your SEND Teaching Assistant cover letter should complement your CV and provide context for your qualifications and passion for the role. Tailoring your cover letter to each additional job application will increase your chances of standing out to potential employers.
Writing the perfect Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Teaching Assistant cover letter is crucial to making a strong impression on potential employers.
How to write the perfect SEND Teaching Assistant cover letter
Steps to create an impressive SEND Teaching Assistant cover letter include:
- Address the hiring manager.
- Tailor your letter.
- Introduce yourself and your goals.
- Highlight your experience and qualifications.
- Mention your fit with the school.
- Write a conclusion and complimentary close.
- Proofread and edit.
Address the hiring manager
Begin your cover letter with a compelling and attention-grabbing opening paragraph. Be sure to include your own full name, email address, phone number and location at the top of the page so the reader can easily find your contact information.
Mention the specific position you're applying for and whenever possible, address the hiring manager or Headteacher by their name. If you don't have a name, use a general form of address.
Tailor your letter
It’s important to tailor your cover letter for each SEND Teaching Assistant application you apply for. In the job description, look for keywords and skills related to the SEND field that you can include in your letter to match the employer's requirements.
The job description can offer a multitude of facts and information you can use to create a more complete, relevant letter that appeals to the needs of the school.
Introduce yourself and your goals
In the first paragraph of your letter, express your interest in the position and introduce yourself. Explain how the SEND Teaching Assistant position aligns with your professional goals e.g. how you love working with students with special-education needs or that this position could be the first step to becoming a certified SEND Teacher.
Highlight your experience and qualifications
After introducing yourself, briefly describe what makes you an ideal candidate for the position of SEND Teaching Assistant by summarising your experience and core qualifications.
If you have experience in SEND, mention specific examples of working with students with special educational needs and disabilities e.g. a time when you resolved an educational challenge or applied a new skill or method for teaching.
Discuss your previous roles, responsibilities, and achievements, emphasising how you made a positive impact on students' lives and their educational progress. Mention experiences that differ from what’s on your CV and explain any relevant career gaps that you might be asked about in an interview.
It’s important not to duplicate content from your CV as the school will already have your CV. Your cover letter is a chance to give additional detail and fill in gaps from your CV.
Mention your fit with the school
Explain why you are interested in working at the specific school or institution you are applying to and what attracted you to the role. Research the school's values, mission, and educational approach, and explain how your values align with theirs.
Express your passion for working with students with special needs and explain why you are drawn to this field. Showcase your genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of these students.
Write a conclusion and complimentary close
In the closing paragraph, express your gratitude for considering your application and mention your interest in discussing your application further in an interview. Reiterate your interest in the SEND Teaching Assistant position and how the hiring manager can reach you for a phone call or email about an interview.
Proofread and edit
Finally, always remember to double-check your cover letter to ensure that it is free of errors, up-to-date and unique for each school you apply to.
Carefully proofread your cover letter to eliminate any spelling or grammatical errors. Ensure that it is well-structured and concise, typically not exceeding one page in length before you send it to the school.
SEND Teaching Assistant jobs
Searching for your dream SEND Teaching Assistant job? Discover what opportunities are available now or upload your CV and one of our consultants will get in touch when an opportunity becomes available.
If you loved this content, you might also like:
- How to Ace Your SEND Teaching Assistant Job Interview
- 8 Special Needs Teaching Assistant Interview Questions & Answers
SEND school recruitment services
As a leading SEND recruitment agency in the UK, we support schools and local authorities all over the UK with their recruitment needs. Looking for assistance? Why not give us a call on 01772 954200 to see how we can help.
Wondering how recruitment agencies can give you a competitive edge? Our recent blog details how using a recruitment agency can help you win the war for talent.
Who is Spencer Clarke Group?
Based in the heart of Lancashire, we've been reshaping the recruitment industry beyond its traditional mechanics. Our deep-seated dedication to creating positive change motivates every aspect of our organisation, from our core values to our business practices.
For us, recruitment is not just about perfectly matching candidates with clients; it's about our desire to find a job for candidates that has the ability to enhance their income, elevate their quality of life and positively impact their mental well-being.
As we continue to progress, our commitment to making a positive difference resonates in every interaction. Whether it's individuals seeking their next career step or businesses looking to expand their growth, our determination to shape a brighter future for all remains constant.
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