Crafting your path to success
Welcome. You're in the right place.
Stepping into your first classroom is a big moment, and we want you to walk in feeling prepared, confident and supported.
This page is a private resource for graduates joining the Switch Education community. Everything here takes the guesswork out of applying for roles, presenting yourself well and settling into the profession. Download what is useful and reach out any time.
Connecting educators with Australian schools for 20 years
Cover letters that get read.
A strong cover letter tells a school who you are beyond your qualifications. Use the sample to see the four-paragraph structure in action, then the essentials guide to tailor it to a school's values and context, whether you are applying for relief, contract or permanent work.
Cover letter sample
A complete one-page letter with each paragraph labelled: opening, pitch, why me, request for action. Replace the details with your own.
DownloadCover letter essentials
What to include, what to leave out, how to reflect the school's own language, and a checklist to run before you send.
DownloadA resume that reflects the educator you're becoming.
As a graduate, your resume needs to make the most of your placements, practicums and transferable experience. The template is structured the way principals and business managers actually read, is friendly to applicant tracking systems, and includes prompts so you know exactly what goes where.
Graduate teacher resume template
Single-column, standard headings, with a dedicated placement experience section and a key skills bank for matching the job ad.
DownloadResume essentials
The bullet point formula, which sections to include, a formatting check, choosing referees, and where to look for roles in South Australia.
DownloadSelection criteria, answered properly.
Many education roles ask for selection criteria as a separate document. Each criterion is stated in full and addressed on its own, using the STAR model, and every response ends with an outcome for students, colleagues or the school community.
Walk in ready.
Interviews for teaching roles have their own rhythm. These are the essentials, and the guide goes deeper on each one, including the questions worth asking the panel.
- Know the school before you go.
Read their website, values statement and any recent news. Reference it in your answers. It shows genuine interest and helps you tailor your responses.
- Use the STAR method for behavioural questions.
Situation, Task, Action, Result. Most teaching interview questions are behavioural, and STAR keeps your answers structured and evidence-based rather than vague.
- Be ready for the common ones.
Expect questions on classroom management, differentiation, building relationships with students and families, your approach to curriculum, and handling a tricky parent or colleague. Prepare a specific example for each, drawn from your placements.
- Bring your evidence.
A tidy folder with your resume, teaching registration or application progress, Working With Children Check, and a short portfolio of lesson samples or student work says a lot before you have spoken.
- Have questions ready to ask them.
Good closing questions about induction, mentoring or the school's priorities for the year leave a strong final impression.
- Look after your nerves.
Arrive early, dress a step above the school's everyday standard, and remember they have invited you because they are interested. This is a conversation, not an interrogation.
The bits no one tells you at uni.
Beyond applications and interviews, a handful of practical things make your first year smoother: what to do before you arrive, how to find your people, and how to set yourself up well in the first weeks.
Questions? Talk to us.
This page is just the beginning. When you are ready to find work, your Switch Education consultant can match you with schools that suit your strengths and goals, and support you every step of the way.