Application forms

[betsy123]

Hello, i am currently taking a level one teaching assistant course, my tutor has told me that i can start applying for level 1 jobs now, which i have. I have given lots of application forms in and haven't even got an interview! does anyone know any websites i could visit which help and give ideas of what i should or shouldn't be putting on an application form as i must be doing something wrong!

[thugulike]

Hi Betsy, It may be that you are talking about you, which is fine, but most HTs want to hear what you think about children. If you have the chance, visit the school when you hand in your application and make sure you interact with the children. You could try and take on some voluntary work which will give you experience and help. Good Luck

[Lil O'lady]

and just keep going, keep applying, keep positive. It can be difficult geting a first break in any sphere so don't be put off if it doesn't happen quickly.

[kags]

As thugulike says, schools will be most interested in your experience of working with, and attitude toward children, so really focus on that. At my daughter's school they had nearly 200 applications for 2 TA posts last year, and they immediately discounted any who had not previously had direct experience of working with children, whether in a paid or voluntary capacity. Have you had to carry out placements as part of the course? If so, focus very much on these in your application. Good Luck.

[xanderma]

Does your current course mean you are spending time as a volunteer in school? If not, you would be best offering to work as a volunteer in your local school, as most schools are looking for experience and proof that you are committed to working with children. Doing this as a volunteer will prove this. Also, I found it helped that I had other areas of skills working with children (I am a Rainbow Guider, and a First Aider, both of which went in my favour)

Hope this helps, good luck

[betsy123]

Thanks, Ihave worked in a school as a dinner lady and have two children of my own and have done some voluntary work but am still not getting anywhere. i am not going to give up though, you know what they say, good things come to those who wait! by the way xanderma, you say you are a first aider, could you possible tell me where i can go to find out about doing a first aid course as i have tried the red cross website and the st johns ambulance but the courses are too far away from my home, i have even tried my local college but they dont do a course on it and it would be beneficial for me to do a first aid course.

[xanderma]

Hi, I did two courses, one run by Girl Guiding and the other arranged through school after I started work - neither are much help I'm afraid. However, when you do get an interview (and you will!) don't be afraid to state specifically that you are prepared to do a course, a lot of people aren't willing so that will go in your favour.