Teaching Jobs in Nigeria happens to be one of the most popular jobs in Nigeria. Teaching as a career field is usually many people's choice in Nigeria because it gives room for different people at different levels in their careers.
Whether you are a secondary school graduate, an OND holder, a BSC holder, etc. you can easily start a career in teaching in Nigeria, especially in rural areas. Teaching is one of the desired jobs for fresh graduates that are just leaving the University.
Why?
This is because it allows them to make some money for themselves while they try to discover their career path, and build their work experience.
Although, many people say that a teachers’ reward is in heaven. While I acknowledge that, employers and school owners are still looking to hire skilled teachers.
Teaching jobs have become competitive, and with competition comes effort. That means that you have to put in more effort to convince the employer/the recruiter that you are the best person for the job.
The best way for you to tell the employer that you are the best person for the job is through your application letter. Your application letter allows you to sell yourself, especially for a teaching job.
It may be difficult for you to sell yourself through your application letter if you don’t know how to write one. In this article, we are going to walk you through all you need to know to write an application letter.
Before we go into the details, let us take a look at what an application letter is.
Learn how to write a general application letter for any job role.
An application letter is a formal document that summarizes your strongest and most relevant skills and abilities. The skills, abilities, and experience that you talk about in your application letter are what the recruiter or employer will expend on during the interview. The application letter allows you to convince the recruiter that you are the best person for the job right before they meet with you.
For teaching jobs, the application letter serves another important purpose, it gives the school a glimpse of your communication skills. Since teaching requires clear communication, a poorly written letter immediately creates a negative impression.
A good application letter should answer three important questions:
If your letter answers these questions convincingly, you've already taken a significant step toward securing an interview.
Apply for teaching jobs in Nigeria
One of the biggest mistakes applicants make is writing their letter before learning anything about the school. Spending just a few minutes researching the institution can significantly improve your application.
Visit the school's website if it has one. Read about its vision, mission, values, and educational philosophy. If it's an international school, note whether it follows the British, American, Montessori, or Nigerian curriculum. If it's a faith-based institution, understand the values it promotes.
Tailoring your application to reflect the school's priorities shows genuine interest and helps you stand out from applicants who send generic letters.
Before writing, gather all the information you'll need, including:
Having these details ready will make writing your application much easier.
When it comes to writing an application letter for a teaching job in Nigeria, it is quite different from other professions and roles. This is because teaching is a field that requires great communication skills to impact students and inspire them to learn more.
These tips for writing a good application letter for a teaching job will help you to explain yourself to your potential employers and relate your unique skills and experience to the job description of the job that you are looking to get.
If you want to write a good application letter for a teaching job, then you should follow this format:
When you start writing your application letter for a teaching job, you must add your address and contact information. It would be easy for employers to reach out to you when you include your contact details and address in your application letter.
Your contact details and your address should look like this in your application letter:
23 Rogers Lane,
Williams Estates,
Lagos.
26th January 2022.
You should also include the school’s address after yours. It should also appear like this in your application letter:
Susan Peters,
Head Teacher/School Administrator,
Great Height International School.
Ikeja, Lagos.
You need to address your application letter to the right person when you are applying for a teaching job in Nigeria. It is better for you to directly address the right person in your application letter instead of saying; “Hiring manager” or “to whom it may concern”.
You should do some research to find out the right person to address your application letter. You can visit the school’s website to find out the right person to address. You can also contact the school to find out the person in charge of recruitment.
Start your application letter by introducing yourself. You can start by talking about where you saw the job advert, then go ahead to talk about why you are interested in the position. Also, talk about what makes you the best candidate for the position.
You can also include information about yourself that would give the recruiter a better understanding of who you are and how you fit into the organization.
Teaching is a profession, and as such your educational qualifications and certifications goes a long way to determine if you would get the job. Every employer wants to hire a qualified teacher, and also someone that is certified to teach.
It is smart for you to talk about your education in your application letter to give the employer a background of your qualification. You can also state your grades or the name of the institution that you graduated from especially if it is of high repute.
You can also talk about how you became interested in teaching. This will give the employer a glimpse of who you are and how you fit into the role.
When it comes to getting a teaching job in Nigeria, your experience is extremely important. Including your teaching experience in your application letter gives the employer an idea of your expertise in teaching.
You can talk about your experience in a way that the employer can see how you have progressed in your career. If you don’t have teaching experience, you can still talk about the experience that you have that is related to teaching.
For instance, if you have worked with the learning and development department in a corporate organization, you can talk about your experience in the company.
Always talk about your teaching experience that focuses on the accomplishments that you are most proud of.
It is good that you outline how you like to teach, and the values you follow as a teacher shows more about who you are as an educator. You should include details about how you have built the value that you follow when you teach students.
You can also mention some of the skills that you have that makes you a great teacher. You can also make the employer understand the style of teaching that is most appropriate for the kind of students that you are looking to teach.
It is good that you close your letter politely and positively by showing your appreciation to the reader for considering you for a role. You can include information about how you plan to follow up, indicate whether you want to call the hiring manager or send an email.
The final paragraph of your application letter should leave an impression on the recruiter or employer.
This application letter example for a teaching job in Nigeria will guide you to write yours. You can take a clue from this example while trying to write your application letter.
John Adams
089 (0000) (000)
johnadams@email.com
23 Rogers Lane,
Williams Estates,
Lagos.
26th January 2022.
Susan Peters,
Head Teacher/School Administrator,
Great Height International School.
Ikeja, Lagos.
Dear MRS Susan,
APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF A CLASS TEACHER
I am writing this application letter in response to the open position for a class teacher at Great Height International School. I am a second-class graduate of the College of Education Lagos, and I have over 2 years of teachings experience at both the primary and secondary school’s levels. I believe that my passion for literacy in rural communities makes me an ideal candidate for a teaching position at your school.
I have experience in teaching secondary school students both professionally and in training. I have worked as a student teacher and a teaching assistant in the beginning part of my career. As a former education coordinator during my National Youth Service Corps. I also have experience in teaching primary school students. From the job description, I can see that your school caters for both children in local communities and children in urban areas. I think that my experience with local communities will make me a great candidate.
From my research, one advantage that your school has over other schools is how it inspires students to be a part of community development programs. I am passionate about building a safer environment so I try to incorporate it into my learning plans. In my previous job, I led a team of secondary school students to plant trees around the school’s compound. I would love to look for ways to integrate community development into my lessons.
I look forward to combining my years of experience with my ability to be a compassionate, passionate, and enthusiastic teacher who will make a positive contribution to your school and the community at large.
I appreciate your consideration for the role, and I look forward to speaking with you further regarding the position. I am happy to answer any additional questions you may have.
Sincerely,
John Adams.
If you are still not clear about how you can write a good application letter for a teaching job in Nigeria, then this template will guide you.
[Your name]
[Your phone number]
[Your email address]
[Date]
[Recipient's name]
[Recipient's title]
[Recipient's institution name]
[Recipient's address]
Dear [Recipient's name],
[In the first paragraph, talk about where you found the job vacancy, explain the job you're applying for and why you're interested in it. Summarize why you are the best person for the job]
[In the second paragraph, describe your educational background and how it relates to the role.]
[In the third paragraph, detail any relevant work experience you have.]
[In the fourth paragraph, describe your teaching style to show how it could fit in with the school, the show a bit of your personality].
I appreciate your consideration for the role, and I look forward to speaking with you further regarding the position. I am happy to answer any additional questions you may have.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your email address]
[Your phone number]
Use the template below as a guide and replace the placeholders with your own details.
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
[Date]
The Principal
[School Name]
[School Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my interest in the position of [Subject] Teacher at [School Name]. I recently graduated with a [Degree Name] from [University Name], and I am eager to begin my teaching career in a school that values academic excellence and student development.
Although I do not yet have formal classroom teaching experience, I gained valuable practical knowledge during my [teaching practice/ internship/ NYSC service/ volunteer activities]. These experiences strengthened my communication skills, lesson preparation abilities, classroom management techniques, and passion for helping students achieve their academic goals.
Throughout my studies, I developed a solid understanding of [Subject] and learned how to present complex topics in ways that students can easily understand. I am enthusiastic, patient, adaptable, and committed to creating a positive learning environment where every student can thrive.
I admire your school's commitment to providing quality education and would be honoured to contribute to your teaching team. I am confident that my willingness to learn, dedication, and strong work ethic would make me a valuable member of your staff.
Please find my CV and supporting documents attached for your consideration. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your school during an interview.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours faithfully,
[Your Full Name]
Grace Okeke
15 Adewale Street
Surulere, Lagos
0801 234 5678
graceokeke@email.com
6 August 2026
The Principal
Bright Future International School
Ikeja, Lagos
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to apply for the position of English Language Teacher at Bright Future International School. I recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree in English Education from the University of Lagos and am excited about the opportunity to begin my teaching career at your esteemed institution.
Although I am a recent graduate and do not have full-time teaching experience, I completed my teaching practice during my undergraduate programme, where I taught English Language lessons to secondary school students under the supervision of experienced teachers. During this period, I developed lesson plans, assessed students' work, managed classroom activities, and learned effective teaching techniques that improved student participation.
I also served as a volunteer tutor in my local community, helping senior secondary school students prepare for WAEC examinations. This experience strengthened my ability to explain difficult concepts clearly, motivate learners, and adapt my teaching methods to suit different learning abilities.
I am passionate about education and committed to helping students build confidence in their academic abilities. I am eager to continue learning from experienced educators while contributing positively to your school's learning environment.
I have attached my CV and copies of my academic credentials for your review. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss how my enthusiasm, dedication, and willingness to learn can benefit your students and school.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to meet with you.
Yours faithfully,
Grace Okeke
If you're applying for your first teaching job, remember that every experienced teacher was once a beginner. Many schools understand this and are willing to employ candidates who show strong potential, even if they have little or no formal teaching experience.
What often sets successful first-time applicants apart isn't years of experience, it's how well they present themselves. A well-written application letter that highlights your academic qualifications, teaching practice, NYSC experience, volunteer work, tutoring, leadership roles, or involvement in educational activities can demonstrate that you already have valuable skills.
Instead of focusing on what you don't have, emphasise what you do have. Show your enthusiasm for teaching, your willingness to learn, your ability to communicate effectively, and your commitment to helping students succeed. These qualities are highly valued by many schools and can significantly improve your chances of being invited for an interview.
If you've completed a teaching practice programme, supervised students during your NYSC service, tutored children in your community, assisted teachers in a classroom, or even coached students preparing for examinations, be sure to mention these experiences in your application letter. They demonstrate initiative and a genuine interest in education, even if they weren't part of a full-time teaching role.
Finally, don't be discouraged if your first few applications don't receive a response. Continue improving your application letter and CV, tailor each application to the school you're applying to, and apply consistently. With persistence and a professional application, you'll greatly increase your chances of securing your first teaching position.
Most schools receive dozens, or even hundreds, of applications for a single vacancy. A few thoughtful adjustments can make your letter more memorable.
Always tailor your application to the specific school rather than sending a generic version. Mention something unique about the institution if possible. Highlight achievements instead of simply listing responsibilities, and support your claims with measurable results whenever you can.
Keep your writing concise and professional. Aim for one page, using clear paragraphs and straightforward language. Avoid exaggerated claims such as "I am the best teacher in Nigeria." Instead, let your experience and accomplishments speak for themselves.
Finally, proofread your letter carefully. A teaching application filled with spelling or grammatical errors can undermine your credibility, regardless of your qualifications.
Many applicants reduce their chances of getting hired by making avoidable mistakes. One of the most common is sending the same application letter to every school without changing the details. Employers notice when the school name is incorrect or when the content feels generic.
Another mistake is simply rewriting your CV in paragraph form. Your application letter should complement your CV, not duplicate it.
Avoid discussing irrelevant personal information, such as family background or hobbies that have no connection to teaching. Likewise, don't make your letter unnecessarily long. Hiring managers often review many applications, so clarity and relevance are more valuable than length.
Pay close attention to formatting. Use a professional font, maintain consistent spacing, and ensure your contact information is accurate.
While qualifications are important, schools also value teachers who possess strong professional skills. Effective communication is at the top of the list. Teachers should be able to explain concepts clearly to students while maintaining positive relationships with parents and colleagues.
Classroom management is equally essential. Employers want teachers who can create a structured, respectful, and productive learning environment.
Other highly valued skills include lesson planning, curriculum delivery, student assessment, technology integration, teamwork, adaptability, patience, and problem-solving. Demonstrating these abilities through real examples in your application letter can strengthen your chances of being shortlisted.
Your application letter is only one part of your job application. Schools will typically expect supporting documents that verify your qualifications and experience.
These may include:
Ensure all documents are neatly arranged and clearly labelled before submitting your application
Writing an application letter for a competitive job like teaching can be challenging especially if the school is sought after by job candidates. If you have never written an application letter for a teaching job in Nigeria, then you may be a little bit confused.
If you are not sure about where to start from, you can use the teaching job application letter example or the teaching job application letter template to write an attention-getting application letter.
Ideally, your application letter should be no longer than one page. Hiring managers appreciate concise, well-organized letters that communicate the most important information without unnecessary detail.
You can use the same basic structure, but you should always customise each letter. Mention the specific school, role, and any details that show you've taken the time to understand the institution.
Most schools today expect typed application letters because they are easier to read and appear more professional. However, if a job advertisement specifically requests a handwritten application, be sure to follow those instructions.
Not for every teaching role, but many schools, especially government schools and some reputable private institutions, prefer or require teachers to be registered with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN). If you have your TRCN certification, it's worth mentioning in your application.
Absolutely. If you don't have extensive teaching experience, focus on your teaching practice, internship, NYSC experience, volunteer work, subject knowledge, and enthusiasm for helping students learn. Highlight transferable skills such as communication, organisation, and classroom support.
Hello, we are a team of experienced recruiters and we are happy to help you recruit your next team member.
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Good work,keep it up
Please help me write the application and send it for me
Send me the letter please
Good work
Pls help me write an application letter to a school i want to start teaching
How can I write an application for a teacher
Please how can I write an application letter to a school showing that I am not done with my degrees in n the university. I will be grateful if you can help me write and send it to me.
Down bridge primary care secondary School ashaka
Please help me
Pls hhelp me write an application letter a primary school
Please help me write to a nursery school
Please help me write the application letter and send it to me please
Primary school my name is Feyikemi
How can I write an applican to a school teacher
Wow... this is nice
Please am still a secondary school students how I can write a application letter as a teacher
Please how can I write when have not teach before please can you help me out it's my fist time
Please,help write the application letter of an assistant teacher in primary school,this is my first time,I don't know-how to go about it,pl please help me out,and send it to me
Please help me write application letter for teaching job as a secondary school graduate
Great work.
But the comment section is funny. He gave a template and even a sample. Yet you all are still requesting him to write letter for you. Wow. Will he still help to write lesson notes as well. Nigerians
Looks like most of the people commenting on this article can't even write a letter even when the article has taken the stress of explaining and providing templates for it, so my question then is, why even bother trying to be a teacher? what exactly do you have to offer if you are not literate enough to write an application letter honestly you shouldn't be teaching. While you are learning how to write a teaching application letter, maybe you should also learn these that'll keep you employed, "IF" you actually get accepted
Thank u
Please help me write an application letter to a private primary school.
Comments here are really funny 🤣, you want to start teaching but you can't follow simple guidelines,my dears how about you start by learning how to write an application letter first before considering teaching.just a friendly advice.He will not write the application letter and help you prepare your lesson note, just saying.