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Your resume is your ticket to making a strong first impression. Whether you’re submitting your application for employment​ or reaching out to schools directly for casual or short-term contracts, a polished, up-to-date resume is essential. As one of the first things our school leaders review when considering applicants, your resume is an opportunity to showcase your experience, skills and potential as a teacher. 

Tip 1: Start with a simple, modern template

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. A modern resume template can provide all the structure you need. Teach Queensland ambassador and Head of Department at Cooktown State School, Katie Broomfield recommends, ‘Take advantage of the wide range of online templates and programs to make a professional looking resume.’ Choose one that’s simple, professional and tailored for teaching roles. Keep in mind that school leaders review many resumes, so make yours easy to navigate and a reasonable length.

Hints:

• Use straightforward headings for each section.
  
• Keep your formatting consistent.
• Focus on relevant experience and qualifications.

Your resume is more than just a list of your achievements. It’s a snapshot of who you are as a teacher and what you have to offer a school. The way you organise your content, the tone you set and the layout you select can speak volumes. Does your resume reflect how you want to be portrayed as a professional? Make sure it does and let your passion for teaching shine through!

Tip 2: Nail the basics

Ensure the name on your resume matches the one on your application. If you’re commonly known by a different name, add it as a ‘preferred name.’ 

Make sure your contact details are up to date and check your spelling, punctuation and grammar.
Don’t forget to include your 6-digit Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) applicant or registration number.

Tip 3: Craft a professional profile

Your professional profile is your ‘elevator pitch’, a short section of approximately 3-5 sentences at the top of your resume that gives school leaders a quick sense of how you might add value to their school and your enthusiasm for your teaching career. This is your opportunity to sell your skills and show how you can contribute to the school environment.

For example: 'Committed to securing a challenging and rewarding teaching position that leverages my expertise in inclusive classroom environments and curriculum development to foster student success. I am eager to collaborate with others to implement innovative teaching strategies and create engaging learning experiences for all students. I am also seeking opportunities for continuous growth and to contribute positively to the school community.'

Tip 4: Highlight your experience

List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent or relevant roles. For each role, include your job title, employer, employment dates and key responsibilities or achievements..

If you had another career before entering teaching, or if you worked part-time while studying, focus on transferable skills (e.g., leadership, teamwork, communication). These skills can show how past experience has prepared you for success in teaching. Don’t forget to volunteer roles as these also provide an insight into your experience and ability to work with others.

If you’re a graduate, don’t forget to include a section about your professional experience placements, including details of the schools, curriculum areas and year levels that you have taught.

Pro tip: use bullet points to highlight responsibilities such as lesson planning, classroom management, and student engagement.

Tip 5: List your qualifications, skills and interests

School leaders aren’t just looking for someone to fill a role - they’re looking for someone who can bring unique strengths and skills to enhance their school community. Sharing your qualifications, professional skills, and personal interests can help showcase who you are and make your application stand out. 

In addition to your completed degrees, include any certifications you’ve completed like First Aid, Workplace Health and Safety, or even specialisations like sports coaching or licensing (e.g., bus licences).

Beyond qualifications, showcase skills that state schools value, such as:

• Behaviour management strategies.
• OneSchool system proficiency.
• ​Multi-age curriculum planning and assessment alignment.
• Coaching and mentoring students or colleagues.
• Digital skills like innovative use of iPads or other technologies.
  

Describe your personal qualities that help you thrive in a school environment, like:

• Organisation and time management.
• Communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Resilience and a growth mindset.
• Commitment to professional development.
  

Finally, while not always included in resumes for other professions, sharing personal interests is particularly valuable on a teacher’s resume. It offers insight into how you might contribute to the broader school community beyond the classroom. 

‘I think interests and hobbies are important to list, especially if you’re a graduate or when you’re considering a rural or remote job. In rural communities you are often the bus driver, soccer player/coach/referee and teacher. Anything you can add that shows a panel more of who you are as a community member is a bonus,’ says James Hall, Deputy Principal at Corymbia State School. 

For instance, do you:

• ​Play a musical instrument?
• Coach or officiate sports?
• Volunteer at community events?
• Passionately advocate for sustainable practices?

Hear more from Felicity Roberts, Principal at Mackay State High School in this video.

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Tip ​6: Nominate referees that advocate for you

It’s usual practice to provide 2 or 3 referees on your resume, with at least one who has directly supervised you in a teaching position or on professional experience/practicum.

Always get their permission beforehand and provide them with a copy of your resume so they’re prepared to support you effectively. While 'referees on request' is an option, having them directly listed can make things quicker and simpler for your potential employer.

Tip 7: Format your resume for maximum impact

• Stick to 2 to 3 pages: Don’t overload your resume with information. Keep it concise and to the point.
• Use bullet points: This helps keep your content clear and easy to scan.
• Leave white space: A clutter-free layout is easier to read.
• Be mindful of colours: consider whether they enhance rea​dability or distract from it
• Avoid unnecessary extras: Don’t include a headshot; it’s not contemporary practice.