Teacher CV template

What's included

• A matching cover letter in the same design
• A4, laid out for UK applications
• Real, selectable text that online application systems can read
• Switch template any time without losing a word
• AI writing help for your profile, achievements and letter (up to 60 AI actions)
• PDF and Word downloads of your CV and letter
• Edit and download again any time, no subscription

What to put on a teacher CV

Heads and recruiters reading a teacher CV look for a few things first: your QTS, the key stages and subjects you teach, and the difference you have made for pupils. This teacher CV template puts QTS and key stages in the header and keeps section names in the left margin, so each part of your career is quick to scan. There is room for results, and no photo.

Many state schools use their own application form, while agencies, independent schools, international schools and some trusts ask for a CV. A good CV makes the form quicker to fill in too. Fill it in and preview for free with no account. Pay £4.99 once to download PDF and Word, with a matching cover letter included.

State your QTS and training route

Put QTS, the year you were awarded it and your route, such as a PGCE or School Direct, near the top. If you are an early career teacher, say where you are in your induction. Add your teacher reference number, as schools use it for checks.

Name key stages, subjects and specialisms

Be specific: KS3 and KS4 maths, A level physics, or EYFS and KS1. Add specialisms such as SEND, EAL, a phonics scheme or exam marking experience, as these are often what a school is short of.

Show results you can explain

Give your own outcomes where you can, such as a class's progress, a set's results against targets or a reading intervention you ran. Keep to what you could talk through at interview, and never name pupils.

Include responsibilities beyond the classroom

Head of year, subject lead, mentoring trainees, running a club, organising trips or leading a CPD session all show you contribute to the wider school. Give each a line on what changed.

Mention safeguarding and your DBS

Schools follow safer recruitment rules. Say you hold an enhanced DBS and whether it is on the Update Service, and list recent safeguarding training. Give a full work history and explain any gaps, as schools will ask.

See a full teacher CV example

Questions

How long should a teacher CV be?

Two sides of A4 is the usual length. Experienced teachers and school leaders can go slightly over if every line earns its place, but most heads prefer a tight two pages. Put your current post first and summarise older roles briefly.

Should I put QTS on my teacher CV?

Yes, and near the top. QTS is often the first thing a school checks, so give the year you were awarded it and how you qualified. If you trained outside England, say whether you hold QTS or have applied for it.

Do schools still accept CVs?

Many maintained schools ask for their own application form, as safer recruitment guidance discourages relying on a CV alone. Agencies, independent schools and international schools often accept CVs. Keep yours up to date anyway, as it makes any form quicker to complete.

What should an early career teacher put on a CV?

Lead with your QTS and training route, then your placements with the schools, key stages and subjects you taught. Add anything you led or improved on placement, your degree, and extras like coaching a team or tutoring. Say whether you are starting or part way through your ECT induction.

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