Personal Statement Tips
How to Write an Effective Personal Statement
Please take time to read the following information which is designed to help you to write your personal statement effectively.
• Remember, the function of the personal statement is to secure an interview
• Wring value out of every sentence you put in, cut the waffle
• Be clear – don’t make assumptions about the reader’s knowledge
• Use concrete examples. If you did something, say exactly what you did (e.g. As a Teaching Assistant I have supported children to develop a range of skills in mathematics. For example XXXX. )
• Say what you learned from experiences in schools or other relevant experience (e.g. Whilst observing in a Year XXX class, I was impressed at the way the pupils responded to the Learning Objectives. I understand how important it is to make these explicit as it helps the children to XXXXX)
Broadly, the statement should cover these areas:
• Why you want to become a teacher
• Your transferable skills, knowledge and experience relevant to teaching and what they will enable you to offer a school
• Your philosophy of education – what it’s all about (and this might be where you want to include your thoughts on things like inclusion);
• What other transferable skills, knowledge and experience you can offer, including extra-curricular.
• Try to include something ‘desirable’ – that little something which will make your application stand out E.g. Willing and able to coach the school football or netball team.