How to Write a Letter of Interest for a Teaching Position

When pursuing a role in teaching (or another profession), proactively reaching out to an employer of your choice can help. One effective way to do this is by writing a letter of interest for a teaching position. Before exploring how to write a teaching letter of interest that resonates, it’s helpful to first have a basic understanding of the letter and its usefulness.

What is a Letter of Interest?

A letter of interest (also known as a letter of expression of interest, letter of inquiry, or prospecting letter) is a proactive document you write and send to an employer or organisation to express your desire to work with them, even if they have no current publicly listed job opening. It contrasts with a cover letter, which responds to a currently advertised job opening.

Key Attributes of a Letter of Interest

• Purpose: To introduce yourself, express interest in an organisation, highlight your skills and other achievements to the employer, and inquire about future (or publicly unlisted) roles.
• Proactive: It's unsolicited, unlike a cover letter, making it a valuable tool for job prospecting.
• Focus: Emphasises your passion for the company and your suitability for specific job requirements.
• Key objective: To get hired. 

How to Write a Teaching Letter of Interest

Here is a guide on the steps to write an effective letter of interest for a teaching position.

1. Contact Information and Date           

Format this section like when writing a professional business letter. Include your contact information and the recipient's contact information at the top of the page. 

• Your information: Name, address, phone number, email and one social media profile (optional).
• Date: The date you are sending the letter.
• Recipient's information: The principal's name (including any title, e.g. Dr), or name of other appropriate designee (e.g, Hiring Committee, School Administrators), the school's name, and address. 

2. Salutation

Address the specific person's last name if possible (e.g., address the principal as 'Dear Dr Njoku,' if that is his/her last name). Alternatively, use the name of a designated authority (e.g., 'Dear Hiring Committee,' or 'Dear School Administrators').

3. Introduction

State your purpose clearly and concisely. Mention the specific type of teaching position you are interested in (e.g., English language).

• Example: ‘I am writing to express interest in any English language teaching opportunities at Riverside Secondary School.’ 

4. Why This Particular School?

This is where you dwell mainly on why the school appeals to you. Research the school's mission, philosophy, academic programs, and recent achievements, among others. Explain how your values align with theirs.

• Example: ‘I’m particularly drawn to your commitment to the "whole child approach" and the emphasis your curriculum places on social-emotional learning. My teaching philosophy mirrors this dedication to nurturing students' academic and personal growth.' 

5. Why You?

Focus on what you can offer the school and its students. Highlight your relevant qualifications (e.g., degrees/professional certifications), skills and other key accomplishments.

• Example: ‘I have a Bachelor's degree in Education and a Master's in Educational Technology. With five years of experience in secondary-level teaching in diverse settings, I have developed innovative approaches to integrating technology into pedagogy. Last year, my students achieved a 19% improvement in their reading proficiency scores using a blended learning model I designed. Three years ago, I was presented with the Teacher of the Year Award by my former employer.' 

6. Conclusion and Call to Action

Reiterate your enthusiasm and request a meeting or interview. Mention any supporting documents you've attached.

• Example: ‘I am confident my experience and passion for student success will make me a valuable asset to your team. Attached for your scrutiny are my resume and other relevant documents. Thank you for your time and consideration. I am available for an informational meeting or a formal interview at your earliest convenience.'

7. Closing

Use a professional closing remark (e.g., 'Sincerely', or 'Respectfully'), followed by your name and a signature (optional) above it.

Adhering to these steps will help you craft a compelling letter of interest that effectively communicates your abilities and passion for teaching.

Tips for Success

• Tailor each letter: Avoid a generic template. Customise every letter to the specific school or district you are contacting.
• Be professional and polite: Follow formal letter conventions and use a respectful tone.
• Keep it concise: Aim for one page in length.
• Edit and proofread meticulously: Errors reflect poorly on your attention to detail, a critical skill for a teacher.
• Include supporting documents: Attach at least one supporting document (e,g, your resume and/or teaching certification) to provide more detail on your experience and qualifications.

Sample Letter of Interest for a Teaching Position

[Your Full Name]

[Your Contact Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Your Phone Number]

[Your Email Address]

[Your LinkedIn Profile URL (Optional)]

[Date]

[Principal's Title and Full Name (if known) or any other designation, e.g., Hiring Committee/School Administrators]

[School Name]

[School Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

Dear [Mr/Ms/Dr] Last Name of Principal or Dear Hiring Committee/Dear School Administrators,

I am writing to express my interest in any upcoming teaching opportunities at [School Name]. Although no vacancy has been formally advertised, I would like to submit this letter of interest because I greatly admire the school’s commitment to academic excellence, inclusive learning, and student well-being.

What motivated me to reach out is your school’s reputation for innovative practices and supportive teacher development programs. I believe my teaching philosophy, centred on encouraging curiosity, fostering critical thinking, and building meaningful relationships, aligns well with your mission.

I hold a [Your Degree] in [Discipline] and have [x years] of experience teaching at the secondary level. Over the years, I have developed strong instructional skills, a passion for differentiated learning, and the ability to create engaging lesson plans that meet the needs of diverse learners. My experience includes classroom teaching and curriculum development. I am also adept at integrating technology into daily lessons to support learning outcomes. This has helped prepare students for an increasingly digital world and enhanced classroom dynamics.

In my previous role at [Previous School Name], I was responsible for designing and implementing a blended learning model that led to a 15% improvement in student reading proficiency scores. This experience honed my ability to differentiate instruction to meet diverse learning needs and foster a positive, engaging classroom environment built on mutual respect.

I have attached my resume and academic credentials for your review. I will welcome any interview opportunity to discuss how my skills, training, and enthusiasm can contribute to the continued success of [School Name].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your team.

Sincerely,

[Signature (optional)]

[Your Full Name]

Final Thoughts

A letter of interest for a teaching position is a great way to introduce yourself to a potential employer, indicate your fondness for them, highlight your skills/achievements to them and get on their radar for future (or unadvertised) openings. If you’ve been wondering how to write a teaching letter of interest, the tips above will help.