The International Schools Review Forum

Hi all,

I've only ever applied for one teaching post and it was a form with a cover letter. For the international jobs, some ask for a CV and a cover letter. I've looked at some examples and there is a confusion, whether to write the CV in first person or third person? The examples I've seen have the opening paragraph in third person. Or is it better just to structure sentences together without using first or third person?

Also some posts have suggested that you need to include a picture. I am applying to schools in the ME and so far haven't been asked for a picture?


Many thanks,


Baz

First person. Third feels odd.

That's what I thought but don't want to risk the application if they are picky!

Personally, you should use neither and go for bullet points.

ie...

English 8, 2002 - 2007, X School, China

- developed curriculum to fit within the MYP Framework
- aligned curriculum with AERO standards
- coordinated with 3 other MYP teachers to develop a cross-curricular unit


yada yada yada

Keep it to the point and simple, so they can see what skills you developed and applied.

Just my thoughts!

Thank ShadowJack, that's why I've gone for but the opening statement and a short statement for each job is where I'm unsure whether to change to third person?

I don't have an opening paragraph or statement of intent. That's for the cover letter. I do use sentences in the job description, but even then, I chop the subject:

EC-12 LIBRARIAN
Sourced materials for school-wide program on space exploration, then organized and led middle school expedition to the Moon. Raised library circulation by 200%. Chaired committee to open school bagel shop.

Like that. Basically bullets without taking up so much space.

Thanks BookshelfAmy,

It's a hassle when different recruiters ask for different ways to get your details! but guess it has to be done. Just hope it comes off!

Should telephone numbers be 0044 to represent the code for UK?

Someone told me to use the entrance code but not the exit code. 00 is the UK exit code, right? So just put 44.

For me to call you from the US, I would dial 011 (US exit code) then 44 (UK entrance code).

If you look at international cards, etc, it looks like this,


+44

or +971

the plus indicates the 011.

Only Canada and the US have the luxury of just dialing 01 :-)

On my CV I have

+44 (ok I don't really, it's just an example!)

and the recruiters all know it.

Just include the exit country code proceeded by a + sign so +44 (country code) 20 (city code) and then the exchange/phone number.

You should do a chronological resume, and not use a narrative when describing your duties and accomplishments. Using bullet points is highly recommended.

We dont use objectives or position statements on a resume, save that for your email or cover letter.

2006-2012 English Modern School, Hong Kong
LIBRARIAN (EC-12)
* Sourced materials for school-wide program on space exploration.
* Organized and led middle school expedition to the Moon. * Raised library circulation by 200%.
* Chaired committee to open school bagel shop.

Include a picture in your application packet, but not on your resume. One when you include a photo in an email attachment it will be listed in the mail programs preview window (helps put face to a resume) and second when we print those resumes out we do them on laser printers in econo mode, meaning your picture comes out looking like a black blob on your resume.

Outside of the USA everyone uses A4 sized paper so format your resume for that as opposed to US letter. You should also use pdf documents instead of word files, to maintain your formatting. Always follow a schools application instructions.