Teacher CV Template
Teachers educate and inspire students across primary, secondary, or further education settings. UK schools look for teachers with strong subject knowledge, proven ability to improve student outcomes, and skills in behaviour management and pastoral care. Your CV should demonstrate your teaching expertise, student achievement data, and commitment to professional development.
How to write a Teacher CV
A teaching CV for the UK education system follows conventions that differ sharply from corporate CVs. Your header should immediately state your QTS (Qualified Teacher Status), your teaching subject or phase (e.g., KS3/KS4 Mathematics), and whether you hold an enhanced DBS certificate. Headteachers scanning applications verify these three things before reading further.
Your personal statement should convey your teaching philosophy in one or two sentences, then anchor it with data: "Passionate about raising attainment in STEM subjects — achieved 78% Grade 4-9 pass rate in GCSE Mathematics, 15 points above the national average." This combination of values and evidence is what senior leadership teams look for.
In your experience section, present each teaching role with the school type (academy, maintained, independent, special), age range, and your specific results. Include exam outcomes, progress measures (Progress 8 if available), and any Ofsted-related evidence. Beyond the classroom, list whole-school contributions: subject leadership, form tutor duties, extra-curricular clubs, or CPD you have led. A common mistake is writing only about classroom teaching and ignoring the wider professional role that UK schools expect.
Include a section for safeguarding and mandatory training: enhanced DBS (never share the certificate number), Prevent Duty, safeguarding Level 1, first aid, and any SEN/SEND qualifications. If you have mentored NQTs/ECTs or led a department, highlight these leadership experiences. Keep the CV to two pages — many schools also request a covering letter or personal statement form, so your CV should complement rather than duplicate that narrative. Use formal, professional language throughout.
What recruiters look for in a Teacher CV
- QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) and relevant subject degree
- Student outcome data showing impact on achievement and progress
- Experience with Ofsted framework and evidence of good/outstanding practice
- Safeguarding training and DBS clearance (mention but don't include numbers)
- Whole-school contributions beyond classroom teaching (clubs, initiatives, CPD)
- Commitment to professional development and staying current with pedagogy
Key skills for a Teacher CV
Example experience bullets for a Teacher
Use these as inspiration — always tailor bullets to your own experience and achievements.
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Tailor my CV nowFrequently asked questions
How should I structure a teaching CV for UK schools?
Start with QTS status and your teaching subject/phase prominently displayed. Follow with a personal statement highlighting your teaching philosophy and key achievements. List your teaching experience chronologically with specific student outcome data. Include a section for whole-school responsibilities (subject lead, form tutor, extra-curricular). Keep it to 2 pages maximum.
Should I include student data and results on my teaching CV?
Absolutely — this is what headteachers look for most. Include exam results (percentage achieving Grade 4+, 5+, or expected standard), progress data (Progress 8 scores if available), and any improvement trends. Compare your results to national averages or school benchmarks where favourable. Specific data is far more compelling than vague claims of 'excellent results'.
Do I need to mention DBS and safeguarding on my teaching CV?
Yes — state that you hold an enhanced DBS certificate (but never include the certificate number) and list your safeguarding training (Level 1, Prevent, etc.) with dates. Schools must verify safeguarding compliance, so including this information shows you understand the requirements and streamlines the recruitment process.