Top CV Tips for Teachers Returning to the Classroom

Introduction

Whether you've taken a career break, worked abroad, or stepped away to focus on family, returning to teaching in 2025 is a positive move — and your CV is the first step.

A strong, up-to-date CV not only showcases your experience, but reassures schools that you’re ready, confident, and classroom-ready.

Here are our top CV tips for teachers re-entering the profession this year.

✍️ 1. Start With a Strong Personal Statement

Your personal statement should sit right at the top of your CV. In 3–4 lines, briefly explain:

• Your teaching experience and key stage(s)/subjects

• Why you're returning to teaching

• What you're looking for in your next role

Example:

“Experienced Key Stage 2 teacher returning to the classroom after a family career break. Passionate about literacy, inclusive education and supporting pupil wellbeing. Seeking part-time or flexible teaching roles within a nurturing primary setting.”

📆 2. Address Gaps Honestly (But Confidently!)

If you've been out of the classroom, that's OK — just explain it briefly and positively. You can include a short line in your employment history such as:

2019–2024: Career break (parental leave). During this time, I remained engaged with education through online CPD, volunteering at a local school, and tutoring KS2 pupils.

Avoid long gaps with no explanation — schools value transparency.

📚 3. Highlight Recent CPD or Training

Show that you're up to date. This could include:

• Online safeguarding or KCSIE training

• Behaviour management refreshers

• SEN webinars or subject-specific CPD

• Volunteering or tutoring work

Even if unpaid, this shows initiative and a proactive return to the profession.

🎯 4. Tailor Your CV to the Role

Avoid using a generic CV for every job. If you're applying for primary supply roles, secondary SEN roles, or long-term KS3 teaching posts, adapt the CV each time:

• Focus on relevant experience

• Mention curriculum knowledge or school types (e.g. academy, mainstream, SEN)

• Emphasise flexibility if returning via supply

📐 5. Keep It Clear and Concise

Your CV should ideally be no longer than 2 pages, and include:

• Contact info (mobile & email)

• Personal statement

• Work history (reverse chronological)

• Education & qualifications

• Relevant CPD or skills

• Referees (or “available on request”)

Use bullet points and clear section headings to improve readability.

✨ 6. Add a Key Skills Section

A short list of relevant skills can catch the eye quickly. E.g.:

• Classroom management

• SEN inclusion

• Phonics (Letters & Sounds / Read Write Inc)

• Behaviour for learning

• Differentiation & scaffolding

• EYFS/KS1/KS2 curriculum knowledge

📄 7. Update Your References

Choose referees who are recent, relevant, and contactable. If you've been out of teaching, use:

• A school where you’ve volunteered

• A tutoring agency

• A line manager from previous teaching roles

🎓 8. Need Help? We’ll Review Your CV for Free

At Mana Education, we support teachers every step of the way — whether you’re returning after a short break or several years out.

We offer free CV reviews, advice on routes back into teaching, and help you find flexible roles that suit your lifestyle.

📩 Email your CV to: ed@manaeducation.co.uk
📞 Call: 0800 025 5144

Final Thoughts

Returning to teaching is an exciting step. With a clear, confident, and up-to-date CV, you'll be well positioned to rejoin the classroom — and inspire the next generation.

If you're ready to get started, register with us today or explore our latest supply teaching and permanent roles across Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, and beyond.