Top Tips for Writing a Personal Statement for ECTs on Kent-Teach

Top Tips for Writing a Personal Statement for ECTs on Kent-Teach

Your personal statement is one of the most important parts of your application as an Early Career Teacher (ECT). It’s your chance to showcase your passion for teaching, highlight your skills, and demonstrate why you are the perfect fit for the role. Here are our top tips for crafting a compelling personal statement that will stand out on Kent-Teach.

Start with a Strong Opening

First impressions count! Your opening paragraph should be engaging and clearly state why you are applying for the role. Consider including a brief summary of your passion for teaching and what motivates you to work with children.

Tailor Your Statement to the Job

A generic personal statement won’t stand out. Read the job description carefully and ensure you address the specific requirements of the role. Mention the school’s ethos, values, and any initiatives they run that align with your teaching philosophy.

Highlight Your Teaching Experience

Whether it’s your placements during teacher training or any additional classroom experience, provide specific examples of how you have developed as a teacher. Highlight key responsibilities, subject areas taught, and any positive outcomes from your teaching.

Demonstrate Your Impact

Schools want to see evidence of how you have made a difference. Use examples to illustrate how your teaching has improved student progress, engagement, or behaviour. Where possible, include measurable outcomes, such as increased attainment levels or successful interventions.

Showcase Your Skills and Strengths

Identify the key skills that make you an effective teacher. This could include:

• Strong classroom management

• Creative lesson planning

• Use of assessment for learning

• Differentiation to support all learners

• Pastoral care and safeguarding

Reflect on Your Professional Development

As an ECT, you are still developing your teaching practice. Show that you are reflective and eager to grow by discussing any training, CPD (Continuing Professional Development), or feedback you have acted upon.

Express Enthusiasm for the School and Role

Schools want teachers who are genuinely excited to join their team. Research the school and mention specific reasons why you want to work there. This could be their curriculum approach, commitment to inclusion, or extra-curricular activities they offer.

Keep It Clear and Concise

Your personal statement should be well-structured, easy to read, and no longer than two A4 pages. Use short paragraphs and bullet points where appropriate to make key points stand out.

Proofread and Edit

Spelling and grammar mistakes can make a poor impression. Proofread your statement carefully, and ask a mentor, colleague, or friend to review it before submitting.

End with a Strong Conclusion

Summarise why you are the ideal candidate and express enthusiasm for the next steps, such as the opportunity to discuss your application further in an interview.

By following these tips, you can create a personal statement that effectively showcases your skills and enthusiasm for teaching. Good luck with your application on Kent-Teach!