I often see people mention ringing schools first to find out if they're taking placements applications. Or even, pre-COVD, dropping into the school.
I'm really not a fan of phone calls, so I just couldn't bring myself to start ringing schools in order to find a placement! I used email for all my applications, and I'd do it again. I didn't receive a response from all schools, so that's a downside. At least if you ring them, you know straight away if they're not taking anyone else, and you're not left waiting for a response!
I wasn't quite sure where to start, so hopefully the below will help you! I emailed secretaries and attached a CV, Cover Letter and my Garda Vetting form from the college. You can find templates for all of this below.
Good luck! ✨
Keep a spreadsheet
I used a spreadsheet to keep track of who I'd emailed. It took a bit of internet sleuthing to find out the names of the secretaries and principles in the schools, but most of them can be found if you dig enough! It's a nice way to show that you've done your research, and makes it look less like you're emailing schools en masse.
The spreadsheet also helped me see who I was still waiting to hear back from, and it'll be useful for the next time I've to sort a placement as I'll know who I emailed before.
Cover Letter
I don't put too much information in the body of my email, I use the Cover Letter for this.
An idea for the structure is:
Introduce yourself, explain why you're interested in their school in particular.
Outline the details of the placement. Dates, subjects, class requirements etc.
Show how you'd be a good fit, and could benefit the school whilst there.
Outline any other relevant previous experience or skills
You can download this template by clicking on the below!
CV
I like to keep my CV nice and simple, so that all the important information can be seen at a glance. For me a picture is a must!
I include any previous experience working with children, whether it's in a school setting or not - maybe it's through volunteering or being a member of a Club.
If you already done a placement, or have done some subbing, you could include a 'School History' heading.
You can download this template by clicking on the below!
Subject: Teaching Practice Placement Query
Hi (Secretary name),
My name is XXX, and I'm writing to enquire whether the school is taking students for teaching practice?
If so, I would love to complete my placement at the school this January. I have attached a cover letter and CV which include all the relevant information.
Kind regards,
XXX