Your CV should be clear, concise and easy to read, highlighting those attributes that best match you to the post you are applying for.

The guidelines below will help you to lay out your CV, to make it as easy as possible for your prospective employer to refer to.

General

To make the document more reader-friendly, it would be best to type it, using a single, easy to read typeface, like Arial or Verdana throughout. Embolden important items and headings, such as your name and the dates and locations of your previous education and employment.

Where possible, use concise bullet points: you will be able to elaborate on relevant items either in the covering letter or at the interview.

Ensure you keep the layout of the document organised, as this will help with readability. Below you will find a standard CV format which might give you an idea of where to start.

Layout

Start with your name at the top of the page, followed by your date of birth (ideally with the month written in full, eg 13 March 1988) and contact details below (to include address, email and contact number(s)).

Then a personal summary follows, of maybe 50 words, highlighting those skills you have which make you the best person for the job. You can then refer to a practical use of these skills in the education and employment sections.

Then list your education history - degree level or higher, starting with your most recent qualification and work backwards. You must also include where you gained each of the qualifications (eg Liverpool University or distance learning - Open University). You should also have any relevant certificates to hand, as your prospective employer is likely to want to see them.

Then on to your previous employment - again, begin with the most recent and work backwards. For each post you should include the school name, dates between which you were employed here, the age groups and subjects you taught, any special needs experience (if applicable) and any additional areas of responsibility. If there are any gaps in between jobs, please explain how you spent this time.

Please note: the above two sections (education and employment history) must cover a period of at least ten years (including any gaps or time spent overseas).

Professional development - provided the development is relevant to teaching (for example Team-Teach training or interactive whiteboard training). Again, start with the most recent development undertaken and include a few words about how each item has helped you in the classroom.

Again, please have any certification to hand.

Awards and certificates - maybe you have won an award for teacher of the term?

Interests and hobbies - to give an idea of how you spend your spare time.

References (optional)

Finally

Check all the dates tally up and ensure you have all the accompanying certification etc.

Please also make sure you check your spelling and grammar. If you can, get a friend or your consultant to also check it, as a mere spelling mistake could be the difference between the interview being offered to you or to another candidate.