Teacher CV example (UK)
In UK schools the CV often matters less than the application form and supporting statement, but you still need one for agencies, academy trusts and international schools. This example shows a secondary teacher’s CV, with the details heads of department look for.
By the OpusStride team · Updated · 1 min read
Example teacher CV
Written for UK employers. The employer is fictional and the figures are illustrative — replace them with your own.
Professional summary
Qualified secondary science teacher (QTS) with 5 years’ experience teaching biology and combined science at KS3 to KS5 in an inner-London academy. Head of Year 9 since 2024. 2025 A-level biology results: 68% at A* to B, above the school target.
Experience
Teacher of Science and Head of Year 9
Riverside Academy (fictional), London · Sep 2021 – Present
- Teach biology and combined science across KS3 to KS5, with a timetable of 22 lessons a week.
- Raised the proportion of A-level biology students achieving A* to B from 51% to 68% over two years.
- Lead a pastoral team of 8 tutors for 210 Year 9 students; persistent absence fell by 4 percentage points.
- Mentored 3 trainee teachers and 2 early career teachers through their placements and induction.
Skills
KS3 to KS5 biology and combined science · AQA specifications · Assessment for learning · Pastoral leadership · Safeguarding · Arbor and SIMS
Licences and certifications to list
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- PGCE Secondary Science
- Enhanced DBS check (Update Service)
- Designated Safeguarding Lead training
CV or application form?
Many state schools and local authorities ask for their own application form and won’t shortlist from a CV alone, partly because safer recruitment rules require a full employment history with any gaps explained. Read the advert. When there is a form, complete it fully and put your evidence in the supporting statement; keep your CV for agencies, trusts that accept one, and international schools.
What heads of department look for
- QTS, your subject and the key stages you have taught.
- Exam boards and specifications you know.
- Results, with the comparison that makes them meaningful (against target or previous years).
- Responsibilities beyond teaching: pastoral roles, clubs, mentoring trainees and ECTs.
- Safeguarding training and your DBS status.
Frequently asked questions
- How long should a teacher CV be in the UK?
- Two pages. Early career teachers can fit on one, with training placements described like jobs.
- Should I include my DBS on my CV?
- Yes, briefly: “Enhanced DBS, on the Update Service” is enough. Schools will run their own checks, but it shows you are ready.
Templates for this
Related reading
Put it into practice
Build it from a region-matched template, then check what an ATS reads.