Applying for a TLR

[MuffyTheUmpireSlayer]

I am about to apply for a TLR for a position that I genuinely would love to do. Of course the idea of progression is nice and the extra money would help, but I do think I would enjoy and be good at the role.

I'm in my second year of teaching and haven't applied for a promotion before, so I really don't know where to start with the application letter! The person I will be addressing in the letter is someone I know quite well and am friendly with, so starting with "Dear Mr..." feels odd yet starting with "Dear Sid" seems too informal. Do I just stick to formalities?

Also, how much of my experience is relevant? I have worked on several different school-wide projects but these have always been in collaboration with another member of staff. Will this look like I lack experience?

I think I could be overthinking things, but every time I go to write the letter I just hit a stump. Any advice would be much appreciated!

[fourcorneredcircle]

Stick to formalities - ultimately the letter will be seen by more people that just "Sid".

If you have relevant whole school experience (even as part of a team) then use it in your letter.

Presumably the TLR is in an area you either have expertise or a willingness to become and expert on? I got my first TLR in my second year of teaching - it was an area that my teaching in particular had links to (I'm MFL, the post was EAL) and I was able to justify my skill set for the role using that.

[Haggisfish]

Is there a job description? Use it to tailor your letter, outlining examples to show skills.

[Jaimx86]

I got my first TLR in my second year and became HoD of a core subject at the start of my fourth year so you shouldn't worry that you don't have enough 'experience'. Just focus on ensuring that you demonstrate that you have the correct skills and the drive to take on the role. With regards to formality, I remained very formal throughout the application process despite it being an in-house post. Good luck.

[MuffyTheUmpireSlayer]

Hi again. Thank you for your responses. Sorry I haven't replied - half term is often busier than term time! I took all of your advice on board and have finally completed the letter. Fingers crossed!