subject: Resume Writing for that Teaching Job Abroad [print this page] Writing a strong CV or resume is essential in securing that new teaching job abroad. Your CV is your first opportunity to sell yourself to potential international schools who will have received many other CVs from teachers from all corners of the world. Therefore by following the steps below you can ensure that you are portrayed in the light that truly reflects your experience, qualifications and future desires.
General Layout
A professional black font should be used to give that professional finish as well as using a suitable text size. Keep your CV to a maximum of two pages. Too much information can be a negative thing. You want to summarise details which entice the potential employer to call you but also leave some things fully unanswered so that there is plenty more for you to sell yourself on during that vital interview. Your CV should then be divided into a number of sections.
Personal Details
Your name should be at the heading of any CV or resume and beneath your contact details. As you are applying to international schools be sure to include the international dialling codes for each telephone number you list. The trick is to make it easy for them to contact you after all that is what you want to be the next step. Also state your email address, date of birth, marital status and the number of dependants that you have.
Personal Statement
This section is used to briefly explain what it is you are looking for and why you are a strong candidate for it. Keep it short and succinct and no more than a few lines.
Qualifications
Begin with the most recent qualification you have achieved with the date this was gained. All dates should include month and year. Then work backwards in chronological order, giving the title of qualification, institution where it was achieved and a few areas of study. If you have an extensive list of qualifications, choose the ones that are relevant to the position you are applying for. As a general rule tertiary and secondary qualifications should be sufficient.
Experience
Similar to your qualifications, start with the current or most recent first and work backwards. Dates each position was started and ended should be in month and year. Include the position you held, name of company and list an overview of the responsibilities you had and achievements you made.
Interests and Hobbies
To show that you are a well rounded character include your hobbies and interests and any awards and achievements made outside of the working environment. This section may also show how you can benefit the potential employer in terms of offering extra-curricular activities to students.
Referees
If you are able to include the names and contact details of two professional referees, then do so. Ideally one should include your current or most recent employer. This may not always be practical if you do not want your current headteacher to know, so state that references are available upon request.
