Applying for a School Learning Support Officer (SLSO) role with the NSW Department of Education can be challenging, especially if you don’t have prior experience. However, even without experience, you can write a strong SLSO cover letter and SLSO resume by highlighting relevant skills, qualities, and a passion for helping students. In this post, we’ll guide you through writing an SLSO cover letter and resume that aligns with the selection criteria.

The Important Role of an SLSO

The role of an SLSO involves providing support to students, including those with emotional, physical, or intellectual disabilities. You’ll work closely with teachers to assist students in their learning and development, providing both one-on-one and group support.

NSW Education SLSO Application Requirements

Usually, an SLSO application will require the following:
• Cover letter (max. 3 pages)
• Resume (max. 5 pages), in either Word or PDF format, that demonstrates how your skills, knowledge and experience can contribute to the success of this role in accordance with the Selection Criteria as outlined in the Statement of Duties. It is a requirement that you include the name and contact details of two referees.
• Response to any targeted questions (maximum 300 words), also included in your covering letter.

Note: It is a requirement that all applicants submit their applications online on iworkfor.nsw.gov.au. No paper based, email based or late applications will be accepted.

SLSO Cover Letter Requirements

Good cover letters use the STAR method to structure your work examples by explaining the Situation, Task, Action and Result.

Your cover letter should:
• include any specific information requested in the job ad
• address the focus capabilities listed in the job ad, look through the Capability Framework for details on what these mean
• showcase your achievements in past jobs or from other contexts, for example volunteer work
• show that you have most of the skills we are looking for
• tell about your passions and interests
• explain why you want the job
• show why you are a good fit for the agency and NSW Public Service.

SLSO Selection Criteria to Address

When applying for an SLSO position, the following selection criteria typically need to be addressed:

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to work with students with emotional, physical, or intellectual disabilities.
• Awareness of the needs of students with emotional, physical, or intellectual disabilities.
• Effective communication skills.

Using the STAR Format

Even if you haven’t worked as an SLSO before, you can highlight any relevant experiences. This could be from school, volunteering, or part-time jobs. You should write your response using the STAR format, which is:

Situation – What role were you in?

Task – What did you need to do?

Action – What DID you do?

Result – What was the result or outcome of your efforts?

We highlight this method in the SLSO cover letter example below.

SLSO Cover Letter Example

Principal
[School Name]
[School Address]
[City, State, Postcode]

Subject: Application for School Learning Support Officer Position

Dear XXXX,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the School Learning Support Officer (SLSO) position at [School Name], as advertised on [Job Platform/Website]. My extensive volunteer experience at [Previous School or Organisation] has equipped me with the skills and passion necessary to excel in this role. I am eager to contribute to your team and support the diverse learning needs of your students.

During my time volunteering at ABC School, I participated in the annual “Literacy Week,” which aimed to promote reading and writing skills among students across various grade levels. I was part of a team consisting of teachers, administrative staff, and fellow volunteers responsible for organising interactive reading sessions and workshops. I collaborated closely with team members to plan activities, coordinate schedules, and ensure that resources were adequately prepared. I actively contributed ideas during planning meetings and was flexible in adjusting plans to accommodate the needs of the group. On the event days, I worked alongside the team to set up venues, assist presenters, and engage with students. The event was a significant success, with high student participation and positive feedback from both students and faculty. Our teamwork facilitated a seamless experience, and I received commendation from the event coordinator for my cooperative spirit and willingness to go above and beyond in supporting the team.

While volunteering in a Year 3 classroom at ABC School, I had the opportunity to support a student who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD). My role was to assist the student during classroom activities to help her stay engaged and manage any challenges that arose due to her condition. I familiarised myself with strategies effective for supporting children with ASD, such as using clear and direct communication, providing consistent routines, and being patient and understanding. I worked one-on-one with the student during tasks that she found particularly challenging, offering gentle encouragement and breaking down instructions into manageable steps. Over time, the student became more comfortable participating in group activities and showed improved focus during lessons. Her teacher noted that my support had a positive impact on her classroom experience, contributing to her academic and social development.

Recognising the importance of understanding the unique needs of students with disabilities, I enrolled in a workshop titled “Inclusive Education Strategies” offered by BPO Training. The goal was to enhance my knowledge and skills in supporting students with diverse needs effectively. The workshop covered various topics, including differentiating instruction, utilizing assistive technologies, and fostering an inclusive classroom environment. I actively participated in discussions, engaged with case studies, and completed practical exercises designed to simulate real-life scenarios. The training deepened my awareness of the challenges faced by students with disabilities and equipped me with practical tools to support them. I applied this knowledge during my volunteer work, which improved my ability to recognise when a student might need additional support and how best to provide it.

As an Administration Assistant, I was responsible for managing client enquiries and coordinating communication between departments for a key project. I needed to ensure the client received timely updates while gathering accurate information from various internal teams to keep the project on track. I implemented a system to track client inquiries, regularly followed up with departments for updates, and communicated clearly with the client, providing straightforward responses to their questions. I also took notes during meetings and distributed them to keep everyone aligned. The client received timely updates, improving their satisfaction, and the project was completed on schedule. My communication efforts helped streamline the process, leading to better coordination between departments and acknowledgment from my manager.

I am passionate about supporting students to reach their full potential, regardless of the challenges they may face. The SLSO position at [School Name] represents an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students’ lives daily. Your school’s dedication to inclusive education aligns with my values, and I am eager to contribute to creating a nurturing and supportive learning environment.

My enthusiasm for education, combined with the practical experience gained through volunteering, makes me a strong candidate for the SLSO role. I am confident that my ability to connect with students, collaborate with staff, and adapt to the dynamic school environment will allow me to contribute positively to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of joining [School Name] and supporting your students’ educational journeys. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background and skills can benefit your school community.

Please find my resume attached for your review. Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

SLSO Resume Example

[Your Name]
[Your Address] | [Your Phone Number] | [Your Email Address]

Objective
Motivated and detail-oriented individual with a background in administration and a passion for supporting students in their educational journey. Seeking a role as a School Learning Support Officer (SLSO) where I can leverage my administrative skills, experience working with students, and strong communication abilities to create a positive learning environment for all students, including those with diverse needs.

Skills Summary
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, teachers, and support staff to achieve common goals.
• Awareness and experience supporting the needs of students with emotional, physical, and intellectual disabilities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, able to engage effectively with students, teachers, and parents, and provide clear instructions.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and maintain a structured and organised work environment.
• Experience working in fast-paced environments with a range of individuals and adapting to meet their varying needs.

Education

Certificate III in Education Support (Ongoing)
[Institution Name]
Expected Completion: [Year]

Diploma in Business Administration
[Institution Name]
[Year of Completion]

High School Diploma
[High School Name]
[Year of Completion]

Relevant Experience
Volunteer, Classroom Assistant
[School Name], [Location]
[Dates]

• Assisted the classroom teacher in managing daily activities, ensuring a smooth learning environment for students with diverse needs.
• Collaborated with teachers, support staff, and volunteers to provide assistance in classroom tasks and group activities, demonstrating the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Worked one-on-one with students requiring additional support, particularly those with emotional and intellectual challenges. Helped these students stay on task during lessons by offering individual guidance and positive reinforcement.
• Gained insight into the needs of students with emotional and intellectual disabilities. Assisted in adapting lesson plans and classroom activities to meet individual needs, ensuring each student was able to participate at their own pace.
• Developed effective communication strategies with students, using positive reinforcement and clear instructions. Maintained regular communication with teachers to provide updates on student progress.

Other Experience
Administration Assistant
[Company Name], [Location]
[Dates]

• Provided administrative support to the office, including managing schedules, organising meetings, and handling incoming communications.
• Worked closely with department heads and staff to ensure smooth operations and assist with event planning and execution.
• Managed filing systems, maintained office supplies, and assisted with day-to-day tasks to support an efficient workplace.
• Answered phone calls, managed email correspondence, and maintained positive relationships with clients and staff through effective communication.
• Assisted in resolving customer enquiries and concerns, demonstrating the ability to handle multiple tasks and ensure a high level of customer satisfaction.

Receptionist
[Company Name], [Location]
[Dates]

• Greeted clients and visitors, answered enquiries, and directed individuals to appropriate departments.
• Managed both face-to-face and phone inquiries, ensuring clear and friendly communication to meet the needs of clients and staff.
• Managed appointment schedules, handled administrative tasks such as filing, and ensured the reception area remained organised.
• Assisted in various office tasks, adapting to the changing needs of the team and managing a dynamic workload.

Key Strengths and Achievements
• Demonstrated ability to provide hands-on support for students, tailoring assistance based on individual needs.
• Recognised for strong organisational and multitasking skills in administrative roles, ensuring smooth daily operations.
• Experience in maintaining positive communication with clients, staff, and students to create a supportive and collaborative environment.
• Strong commitment to creating inclusive learning environments for students with disabilities, fostering both emotional and academic growth.

Referees
[Name], Classroom Teacher
[School Name]
Phone: [Phone Number]
Email: [Email Address]

[Name], Office Manager
[Company Name]
Phone: [Phone Number]
Email: [Email Address]

Professional Development
First Aid Certification
Completed: [Year]

We hope these SLSO cover letter and SLSO resume examples have been helpful. If you need help with your application, contact us for a quote.