Personal statement

[eromdap]

I am a volunteer (3yrs) trying to sort out the structure for my application form for a general TA position within a small reception class. Previously I had sections for school experience, training, previous employment, earlier experience and other information, personal qualities and skills. The school experience was the largest section but I think was a little unfocused as it contained bits of what I had done in the last 3 years in YR, 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6.

Now I think I should focus more on my YR experiences, so I have started by briefly summarising where I have been workin and what I have done. I have then gone into further detail about my roles while working with YR (interventions, phonics, story, assisting with learning activities). Then I think I may elaborate, with examples, on what I have done in relation to the 7 areas of the EYFS, would this work? Is there a better format for setting the information out? I am very aware of tying in with the job description etc.

[Ferguson]

I started as a volunteer parent (dad) helper, mostly supporting reading at first, then was TA ten years in another school. But that was twenty-five years ago, and things are probably more formal now.

Your outline sounds OK to me. Maybe concentrate on the most important/relevant areas, and not go into TOO much detail, but it is a difficult balancing act. Yes, tie things in with what they want. I used to enjoy TA job interviews, as it gave me a chance to talk about children, and what I had to offer. Some interviewees were terrified, which I could never understand (but then I had already had twenty years as office supervisor and manager).

If you have special skills, or have done things you are proud of, don't be afraid to try and convey how good you are, and how the school will be lucky to get you! Sports, music, drama, specialist knowledge, arts etc. I ran recorder clubs for ten years, did computer activities at lunchtimes, coached Yr2 on percussion to accompany the Christmas production. One of my very first 'readers' turned up seventeen years later, when she was in her final year of Teacher Training; SHE needed to direct ME in the classroom!

ENJOY!

[peacoat]

I'll just add that you should mention the impact of what you have done as well.

Good luck!