Help! Explaining current low pay in covering letter...

[TimeForNewStart]

Used to have a couple of great jobs, great pay etc. However since DD was born 11 years ago its been a combination of SAHM, self employment and for the last 5 years my current role, which has some status and professional standing in a related field, but pays peanuts due to PT hours and employer having a magic beans approach to money.

Currently on 12K and applying for role at 40-50K (what I was previously on).

What do you think of the following as a closer to my covering letter to explain this without actually using the dread words 'caring' or 'maternity break'. I have just finished an MA hence my reference to 'learning and growth'.

My current role as XXXX has been a fantastic opportunity for learning and growth, however the time is now right for me to look further afield, and I would really enjoy the opportunity to speak with you at interview about why I am a good fit for this role

Whaddya recon? Will they read between the lines?

Ooooh, I'm liking that @TimeForNewStart**

Did you just reply to yourself?

If they can see it is a part time role then they would be able to see that is why there is a lower salary attached to the role.

Previous salary drives me bananas. It's the surest way to keep low paid people in low paid jobs. If there's a column, I leave it blank. If a requirement is to statecsalary in letter, I explain the salary I am seeking. If someone advertises a job without a salary I rarely bother applying - I may miss out but in most cases they'll be trying to get something on the cheap.

Oh god, yes I did reply to myself instead of @TheNightof1000Fans

I get what you mean by Eleven years is a long time, and you were and are prepared to work what is effectively min wage, there is nothing wrong with this, but it would beg the question on whether you were now capable of more

I get this, this is exactly what I fear they will think! But its a regional management training role (have decided to abandon 'hubby's hobbies' style anonymity here ) And would inevitably involve travel given my current location. Am a single parent (50:50 residency) and now DD is going to secondary she can let herself in if I'm not back from work etc. so my horizons have broadened.