Apply as a starting teacher

Yes, your diploma has arrived! Now comes the next step: applying. Suddenly it gets very serious. How do you get that dream job - even if there is a teacher shortage - and how do you know for sure that you will be in the right place later? With these tips you will soon be in front of the class with pleasure.

Step one, know where you want to apply

First of all you have to find an interesting vacancy at a school where you want to work. Job boards such as Meesterbaan are still a good source. But more and more often a job is found through LinkedIn, through friends and the socials. Keep in mind that the person posting a job is likely also checking your social media profiles.

Have a professional profile on LinkedIn

Even if your career is just starting, it is important that you have a reasonable business profile. Take a look at your profile through the eyes of a colleague or student. Do you come across as someone you like to see in front of the class?

Use your personal network

Keep in touch with your fellow students and maintain the contacts you have made at internship schools. Then you will soon hear if a nice vacancy arises somewhere. The school of your lio internship is of course very important for your network. If it clicks well during your internship, they will certainly think of you. It is therefore important to choose your internship well. For example, think carefully about the pedagogical vision, for example Jenaplan education or Montessori of the school. Which one appeals to you? 

Know which pedagogical visions there are

You know the pedagogical visions of your study programme. It is good to study this before you apply. This way you can better assess whether you want to work at a school. Moreover, the school will definitely bring this up during your application. 

Writing a job application letter

Maybe it sounds a bit old-fashioned, a cover letter. Yet that is still the best way to apply. It is important to take the time for this. Do your research on the school, avoid empty slogans such as 'putting the child first' in your letter. And above all: read everything critically before you send it. Because it also applies to letters: a first impression is very important. read this article in which starter consultant Alma Meijer and former director Erik Adema give tips on how to present yourself in an application letter. 

Tips for your first conversation

Are you invited for an interview? Congratulations, you are now very close to your first job. You usually conduct your job interview with the school principal. Read also the tips that school leaders give for a successful job interview. 

More teaching tips?