ta cover letter uk

Teaching Assistant cover letter examples

A role as a teaching assistant can be incredibly rewarding. You can help students to learn, grow and achieve their goals.

But first, you’ve got to achieve your own goal of securing the position.

If you’re not sure where to start, let us school you for a moment.

In the guide below, we’ll show you how to write an impressive application, as well as share some teaching assistant cover letter examples.

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These Teaching Assistant cover letter examples provide you with some guidance and inspiration for writing a cover letter that gets noticed and ensures your CV will get opened.

But if you really want to master the art of writing a winning cover letter , then follow our step-by-step cove letter writing guide below.

How to write a Teaching Assistant cover letter

Here’s a simple process to write your own interview-winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

You should write your cover letter in the body of the email (or messaging system if sending via a job board) and never attach it as a document.

The reason for this?

You want your cover letter to start connecting with the recruiter from the moment they open your application.

If they have to open a document to read it, it will slow things down and they may not even bother to open it.

Start with a friendly greeting

To build an instant connection with the recruiter reading your cover letter, start with a warm greeting.

It should be friendly but not casual – keeping it professional at all times.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you have opened the cover letter with a warm greeting, you need to explain which role you are interested in.

Sometimes a recruitment consultant could be managing over 10 vacancies, so it’s crucial to pinpoint exactly which one you are interested in.

Highlight the department/area if possible and look for any reference numbers you can quote.

These are some examples you can add..

• I am interested in applying for the role of Teaching Assistant with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 40f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for an IT project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The bulk of your cover letter should be focused around highlighting your suitability for the job you are applying to.

Doing this will show the recruiter that you are suitable candidate and encourage them to open your CV.

The best way to do this, is by studying the job advert you are applying to, and find out what the most important skills and knowledge are.

Once you know the most important requirements, you then need to highlight your matching skills to the recruiter. In a few sentences, tell them exactly why you are a good fit for the job and what you can offer the company.

Keep it short and sharp

When sending a job application to a recruiter or hiring manager, it is important to remember that they will normally be very busy and pushed for time.

Therefore, you need to get you message across to them quickly (in a matter of seconds ideally). So, keep your cover letter short and to-the-point. A long waffling cover letter will overwhelm recruiters when they are running through hundreds of emails in there inbox, but a concise one will get their attention.

So, keep your cover letter to just a few sentences long, and save the extensive detail for your CV.

Sign off professionally

To round of your CV, you should sign off with a professional signature.

This will give your cover letter a slick appearance and also give the recruiter all of the necessary contact information they need to get in touch with you.

The information to add should include:

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Kindest regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network –  e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Jill North IT Project Manager 078837437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip: To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate documents that you could copy in.

What to include in your Teaching Assistant cover letter

So, what type of information should you write about in your Teaching Assistant cover letter?

The specifics will obviously depend on your profession and the jobs you are applying to, but these are the key areas you should be covering.

• Your industry experience – Tell recruiters the types of companies you have been working for and the roles you have held in the past.
• Your qualifications – Highlight your most important relevant qualifications to show employers you are qualified to do the roles you are applying for.
• The impact you have made – Demonstrate the positive impact you have made for employers in previous jobs. Have you saved money? Improved processes? Made customers happy?
• Your reasons for moving – Employers will want to know why you are leaving your current/previous role, so provide them with a brief explanation here.
• Your availability – When will you be able to start a new job ? Check your current contract to find out your notice period if you are in a position already.

Teaching Assistant cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Teaching Assistant cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

Hope you’re well.

I am writing to apply for the Teaching Assistant position at St Michael’s Primary School. Having recently completed my BTEC Level 3 in Health and Social Care, I possess the skills and enthusiasm necessary to contribute effectively to the growth and development of young learners.

My leadership experience, demonstrated through my captainship and coaching roles for various basketball teams, has honed my ability to inspire and mentor others, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment. Additionally, as the President of the Debating Society, I have nurtured critical thinking and communication skills among my peers. I am a diligent and reliable individual, as evidenced by achieving the highest mark in my year for the History Research Project and my part time job at Pizza Express.

I am passionate about education and excited about the prospect of contributing my skills the students and staff at St Michael’s. I am available for an interview at your convenience.

Yours sincerely,

Sajeed Shivaram

I am delighted to submit my application for the Teaching Assistant position at Mayview Primary. With six years of invaluable experience in educational support, coupled with CIM qualifications in behaviour management, I believe I am a great fit for this role.

As a qualified Level 3 Teaching Assistant, I possess a comprehensive understanding of modern teaching methodologies and child development strategies. My formal training, combined with hands-on experience in three state schools, allows me to effectively support students’ individual needs and tailor lesson plans to optimise their learning experience. In my current role at Lane Academy, I have helped raise students’ SATS performance by an average of 20% through personalised coaching. Moreover, my strong ability to cater to diverse learning needs and training in behaviour management has led to the successful integration of students with special requirements into mainstream classrooms.

I am available for an interview at your convenience and look forward to the prospect of contributing to the academic growth and success of the students at Mayview.

Kind regards,

I hope this email finds you well.

I am writing to submit my application for the Senior Advanced Teaching Assistant position at Chapel School, commencing in September 2023. With 19 years of experience and a genuine passion for education, I am well-suited to make a significant difference in students’ lives and contribute to their academic journey at your school.

As a Level 3 Teaching Assistant, I have effectively supported teachers in delivering the Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 curriculum to mixed ability classes, fostering an inclusive learning environment. I have demonstrated expertise in providing personalised 1:1 and small group support to identified pupils, including those with Educational Health Care Plans, and successfully implemented ILP’s for 30 students in my current role. Additionally, my adeptness in utilising educational technology tools such as SmartTeach30 and Kahoot enhances my ability to create dynamic and innovative learning experiences.

I am eager to further discuss my skills and dedication to your school’s vision in an interview from next week.

Susan Pritchard

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a Teaching Assistant job, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

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How to write a great teaching assistant covering letter and CV

Teaching assistant, tes editorial.

You’ve decided to apply for a teaching assistant (TA) job. Now you just need to nail that covering letter and CV.

Most job adverts will either ask for a CV or for you to fill out an application form. They will also expect either a covering letter or they will leave space on the application for a “personal statement”. This is your opportunity to allow your personality to shine through and let the HR manager know exactly why you are the perfect person for this role.

• How to become a teaching assistant
• TA interview: potential questions
• How to move from TA to teacher

1. Make it personal

Hannah Wilson, headteacher of Aureus Secondary School in Oxford, advises that you personalise your letter to the school you’re applying to.

“Do your research: you’ve got to visit the school, review the website, read the prospectus,” she advises. Then use this information to inform your application.

“You have to make it clear why you want to work at this school specifically,” says Wilson.

2. Don’t dwell on what you don’t have

Instead of wasting precious word count explaining why you don’t have experience, make the most of what you do have.

“Share your experiences looking after children, volunteering in your community, raising your own children. Show your understanding of child development and supporting children with additional learning needs,” Wilson says.

3. Any SEND experience is valuable

As an learning support assistant (LSA) or TA, you’re likely to be tasked with working with those students who have special educational needs and disability (SEND). Therefore, any experience you have of children who have additional needs is beneficial.

“You should mention all the experience you have, even if it is your own children or family members,” says Wilson.

“You can show you have read up on SEND issues, and you are willing to learn. If you have not had experience, you can still demonstrate your understanding and link to your own temperament and character, and how you are suited to this type of work.”

4. Cheque you’re spellign

“Make sure your statement is proofread, and that your application is grammatically correct,” Wilson warns.

Some applications won’t allow you to edit the form or submit online. In those situations, Wilson warns against writing straight on to the form.

“Write it in Word first, and then proofread it before you copy it on to the application form.”

Many teaching assistants go on to become qualified classroom teachers. With Tes Institute’s Straight to Teaching course you can train while working in your current school.

Cover letter examples

Teaching Assistant

Katherine has opted for the Harvard cover letter template, targeting teaching assistant roles. Her one-page cover letter is modern and simple to read. She briefly highlights her achievements, skills, and passion for teaching, making her a great candidate for the next job.

"I learned about the opportunity for a teaching assistant position at your school through a friend whose child is at West Park Primary School. After thoroughly exploring your school's website and immersing myself in your mission statement, I am convinced I can make a meaningful contribution to your institution."

Table of contents

How to Write a Teaching Assistant Cover Letter Guide | Examples & Tips

In today's competitive UK job market, writing a solid teaching assistant cover letter is essential to set yourself apart from other candidates. Whether you are a graduate , a part-time teacher, or a seasoned professional, this step-by-step guide provides practical tips to help you showcase your passion and skills effectively. From explaining your teaching approach to highlighting relevant experiences, each section is designed to help you showcase your most vital talents, qualifications, and abilities.

Whether you want to work in primary education, special education, vocational education, or adult education, let's navigate the must-have sections to include in your teaching assistant cover letter, the best format coupled with job-specific examples.

Check out our collection of cover letter templates , designed to make a lasting impression and help you succeed in your job search.

Customise this teaching assistant cover letter

Teaching assistant cover letter example .

Download this teaching assistant cover letter sample in PDF for free.

In this teaching assistant cover letter sample, Katherine showcases her extensive experience in teaching in a primary school setting, and she is looking for a new full-time position as a teaching assistant. She highlights her certifications, strong skills in classroom management and mentorship through helping students concentrate and achieve higher results. It follows a modern CV format concisely. She has attached her CV & references alongside her application.

Explore our related teacher CV example to help you achieve your career goals and submit a complete application.

How to write a teaching assistant cover letter with no experience

If you're looking for your first teaching assistant job, it's crucial to showcase your eagerness to learn and the transferable skills gained from your education, apprenticeships , internships , or tutoring. Whether you are a teaching assistant in a university or a volunteer teaching assistant, you can elaborate on how your background in leading group projects at university proves your expertise in fostering inclusive learning in a classroom setting. If you have worked as a volunteer, tutor or teaching assistant in a community setting, you could showcase the effective strategies to assist students with various learning needs.

Check the educational website of the institution to get an impression of the school and its standards and values. This is valuable information that you can use while writing your cover letter.

For more information, check out our related blog guides on adding CV achievements and CV education sections to gain more knowledge and correlating them with your cover letter.

Teaching assistant with no experience cover letter example:

I am excited to apply for the Teaching Assistant position at The Westminster School. With a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), I am eager to leverage my passion for helping students receive higher grades and contribute to their continuous learning. As a former Volunteer at Langford Primary Academy, I assisted teachers with lesson planning, classroom activities, and student supervision, leading to a 20% increase in student participation. Furthermore, I led a project to organise drama classes, attracting over 50 pupils and receiving reviews with a rating of 85% and higher feedback from students and administration. I appreciate The Westminster School's dedication to fostering a welcoming and diverse learning environment for all. With my proven track record of enhancing student engagement and improving grades by 20%, I am confident I will be a great asset to your team.

Check out our related blog article on how to write a CV with no experience to help you streamline your application.

What to include in a teaching assistant cover letter? 

Like a good CV , your cover letter should provide a brief snapshot of your relevant work experience, areas of expertise and achievements tailored to a specific job. It complements your CV by filling in the gaps and giving context to the missing details. 

If in doubt, contact the school where you want to apply by telephone or email. It is helpful to have a pen and paper at hand during this conversation so that you can jot down the main points in your cover letter afterwards.

See below the must-have sections to include in your teaching cover letter:

Introduction

Conclusion.

1. How to start a teaching assistant cover letter

A cover letter should start with a brief yet impactful opening line that clearly states the position you are applying for, echoing your CV personal profile , also known as a personal statement. Whether you are an SEN (special educational needs) teaching assistant or graduate teaching assistant, it must be eye-catching and tailored to the job you are applying for. The purpose is to make a strong initial impression and encourage the headteacher to continue reading your cover letter and CV. Lastly, explicitly mention how you discovered this job opening and show your enthusiasm for the position. 

We recommend addressing your cover letter to a specific teacher using "Dear [ Full name]" or "Dear Sir/Madam [ Last name]". If the name is unknown, you can just say "Dear headteacher", "Dear headmaster/headmistress", or "To whom it may concern".

Consult out the related article on how to add soft skills to a CV for more valuable tips and examples.

Teaching assistant introduction cover letter example

I am thrilled to apply for the Teaching Assistant position at Bigland Green Primary School, referred to me by former colleague Niamh Roberts. With 3 years of experience working in diverse classroom settings, including special education and ESL programs, I am eager to bring my dedication and skills to support the learning of students at your esteemed institution.

Primary school teaching assistant introduction cover letter example:

I am writing to express my genuine interest in the Primary School Teacher position at Maplewood Primary School. As a dedicated educator with a passion for inspiring young learners, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the academic success of your school.

To learn more about who to address a teaching assistant cover letter, explore our related blog article on how to start a cover letter.  

2. How to write the body of a teaching assistant cover letter 

In the main body of your teaching assistant cover letter, you must provide specific examples of your teaching work, relevant achievements, and qualifications. Mention your passion for teaching, demonstrating how your previous experience proves your ability to lead a class and create an engaging learning environment. For example, you could explain how you helped increase the grade of a student with low performance or how you initiated a classroom management strategy.

To succeed in your job search, ensure to incorporate the relevant skills and technical proficiencies and elaborate on missing details from your CV. Key competencies for a teaching assistant include but are not limited to:

Classroom management : show your ability to manage classroom dynamics, and maintain a positive learning environment in the class setting.

Tailored student plans : this applies to creating detailed and personalised suggestions for various students, especially for SEN and English as an Additional Language (EAL) requirements.

Lesson planning : integrate diverse teaching methods to suit student's needs, adapting to different learning styles.

Grade assessment and feedback : this includes assessing the papers, providing thorough feedback, and composing clear materials for assessing performance.

Safeguarding : ensuring the student's welfare and well-being are of the highest priority through empowerment, prevention, protection, proportionality, partnership, and accountability.

Administrative tasks : you can incorporate responsibilities such as record-keeping, organisation, and event coordination for school activities.

Hybrid teaching style : the ability to teach in-person and remotely via Teams or Zoom, which is especially relevant for university and high-school teachers.

For more inspiration, explore our blog article on the most sought-after skills employers look for an article for more practical insights and examples.

SEN teaching assistant body cover letter example

In my current role as a SEN Teaching Assistant at Maplewood School, I have a proven track record in providing personalised support to students with special educational needs (SEN). For instance, I designed visual timetables for students with autism, improving organisational skills and reducing anxiety during transitions. Furthermore, I collaborated with speech therapists to implement augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices for non-verbal students, facilitating effective communication and participation in classroom activities. My proficiency in using specialised software such as Boardmaker and Widgit Symbols enhances the creation of customised learning materials, ensuring a tailored learning experience for SEN students.

EAL teaching assistant body cover letter example

As an EAL Teaching Assistant at Oakridge Primary School, I am dedicated to supporting the academic progress of English language learners (ELLs). For example, I designed and delivered interactive language workshops focusing on vocabulary enrichment and conversational skills, resulting in measurable improvements in fluency and comprehension. Additionally, I collaborated with teachers to implement differentiated instruction techniques, enabling ELLs to access curriculum content and participate fully in classroom discussions. Using multimedia resources and culturally relevant materials, I create engaging learning experiences that cater to the linguistic and cultural diversity of EAL students.

3. How to end a teaching assistant cover letter

Close off your cover letter by reiterating your interest in the role and expressing confidence in your ability to contribute to the school's success. Show gratitude for the time and consideration of your application. Finally, end with a professional sign-off.

Teaching assistant conclusion cover letter example:

I believe my enthusiasm and my ability to make a difference make me a strong fit for the Teaching Assistant position at Hillside Primary School. I am eager to contribute to your success, working collaboratively with the talented Hillside team to achieve new levels of excellence. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you! Sincerely, Sarah Campbell

Classroom assistant conclusion cover letter example:

With a genuine dedication to fostering an engaging and supportive classroom environment, I am thrilled at the possibility of joining the vibrant team at Hillside Primary School as a Classroom Assistant. I am excited to utilise my skills and experience to support both educators and students, adding value to the school's culture of innovation and collaboration. Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to contribute to the dynamic learning community at Hillside Primary School and am eager to further discuss how I can make a positive impact. I welcome the chance to discuss this further in a job interview. Sincerely, Skye Connor

Learning support assistant conclusion cover letter example:

I am deeply passionate about empowering students with diverse learning needs, looking forward to a chance to join Hillside Primary School as a Learning Support Assistant. I am eager to leverage my expertise to provide tailored support to students, contributing to the school's culture of inclusivity and personalised learning. Thank you for considering my application. I am genuinely interested about the opportunity to collaborate with the dedicated team at Hillside Primary School and am eager to explore how I can contribute to its nurturing and supportive environment. I am available at your convenience for a job interview to discuss this further. Sincerely, Robert Pearson

Refer to our blog article on how to end a cover letter for more examples and advice.

Key takeaways 

By following these tips, you can create a strong cover letter for the teaching assistant position, increasing your chances of securing your dream job. Adjust your CV and cover letter to match the job description and show your strengths. Lastly, proofread your cover letter to ensure it grasps your headteacher’s attention and effectively communicates your key skills and interest in pedagogy.

Next steps?  

Whether you need to smooth out inconsistencies in your cover letter or want to create your teaching cover letter from scratch, our comprehensive career platform is tailored to assist you at every turn. With our intuitive Cover Letter Builder , you can select from various professional templates to create a modern cover letter. For a thorough review of your career documents, explore our CV Writing Services . 

Once you've completed the initial stages of the application process, check our blog article on good questions to ask during a job interview . 

Customise this teaching assistant cover letter example

What format should i use for my teaching assistant cover letter in the uk.

The key is to keep your cover letter format professional and simple. Use a clear and easy-to-read font, and avoid using fancy designs or colours. Stick to a standard format with your contact information at the top, followed by the date, the school’s name and location, a professional greeting, the body of the letter, and a professional sign-off.

Explore our related blog articles on the best CV font and best CV colour and create a well-designed matching cover letter.

How long should my cover letter for a UK teaching job be?

Your cover letter ideally needs to be one page long, providing enough information to showcase your skills and experiences without overwhelming the reader. Keep it concise and focused on relevant details proving your suitability for the teaching position.

Check out our related blog article on how long should a cover letter be for more inspiration

What to avoid in a teaching assistant cover letter?

Avoid irrelevant information and clichés. Instead, shift the attention to specific examples of your teaching experience, explaining how it aligns with the job you're applying for. Avoid listing your previous salary or explanations for leaving previous jobs unless a recruiter directly asks about it. Lastly, we suggest avoiding any personal information, including your photo, that is unnecessary.

For more information, check out our related blog article on how to add a photo to a CV .

How to write an application letter for an Education, Health, and Care EHS assessment?

Begin by explicitly stating the child's needs and reasons for seeking assessment language that mirrors the requirements outlined in the assessment process and expressing your enthusiasm for seeking support for the child's education. Address the letter directly to the appropriate recipient and conclude with a sincere thank you for considering your request, along with an invitation for further discussion or an interview. Remember that only pupils with education, health and care (EHC) plans are eligible for private support from a teaching assistant (TA).

Explore our CV writing guides for healthcare , caregiver , and medical fields for more inspiration.

How do I introduce myself as a teaching assistant?

Presenting yourself as a teaching assistant is a simple yet important aspect of establishing rapport with students, teachers, and parents. Start by stating your name and role clearly, highlighting your commitment to supporting the educational journey of students. Briefly mention any relevant education or experience that highlights your suitability for the role. Lastly, show interest in working with the students and collaborating with the teaching team to create a positive learning environment.

For more tips and examples, check out our related article on how to send a CV via email where you can further introduce yourself.

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