When a teaching vacancy is advertised, it may elicit hundreds of responses from well qualified candidates with a keen interest in the position. That's why it's so important to write a cover letter that instantly commands attention and persuades the recipient to give your resume the attention it deserves.

Cover letters in the teaching profession usually follow the same fundamental principles that apply to most other career fields:

• convey a professional image in the style and appearance of your letter
• make sure to put your name, address and contact telephone number in the letter as well as on the resume
• address the recipient by name in the opening
• identify the position for which you are applying
• offer compelling but succinct content that highlights your most significant skills, experience and training
• request an interview in a strong closing paragraph that emphasizes your interest in the position

It's very important to address the superintendent, principal or other hiring representative by name in your salutation. Everyone will be aware that you're probably making several applications for different jobs -- but personalizing each letter is further indication of your specific enthusiasm for a vacancy.

You can take this targeted approach further by matching relevant features of your teaching history to the requirements of a position. You'll have ample scope to focus on key skills in your resume, of course -- and as part of your job application you may be asked to complete a form which includes space for a personal statement. You'll also probably have time to expand on your educational philosophy in an interview. But a short, one page cover letter will give you the opportunity to focus on points that make you a persuasive candidate to interview.

These questions may help you to decide what aspects of your application are most likely to impress:

• do you have qualifications that make you particularly well-suited?
• have you undertaken relevant courses or training as part of your on-going professional development?
• do you have experience working with children in grades or age ranges that relate to the post?
• are you experienced in teaching students of different abilities?
• what general curriculum skills can you offer alongside your expertise in your specialist subject?
• do you have experience in curriculum planning or development?
• do you have extra-curricular interests or experience that might be valuable?

You can communicate detail to a busy reader quickly by laying out key information in bullet points. Try drafting your letter in different formats to help you assess its legibility.

As a final check, don't forget to proofread hard copy of your letter (and resume) for mistakes of spelling or grammar -- you're a teacher, after all!