Skip to content
Cover letter example

Special needs teaching assistant cover letter example

AESH applications usually go to the DSDEN (the departmental education office) or to the school network that coordinates support staff. The reader wants to know that you understand the role, that you will respect the teacher's place and pupils' privacy, and which hours you can work.

A short, warm and factual letter fits better than an emotional one.

Cover letter example

Replace the parts in brackets with your own details.

Subject: Application for an AESH position, [Département]

Dear Sir or Madam,

I would like to apply for a position as an accompanying assistant for pupils with disabilities (AESH) in the [Département]. For the past [x] years I have worked as a holiday camp leader with groups that included children with autism and attention disorders, and this experience made me want to support pupils in school over a full year.

During these placements, I learned to prepare a child before a change of activity, to use pictograms and simple sentences, and to step back once a child could manage alone. I also understood how much a calm adult nearby can help a pupil stay in the group rather than leave it. I know that an AESH does not replace the teacher: my role would be to make lessons accessible and to share what I observe, within the plan defined by the MDPH.

I am available on school days and can work in several schools if needed, within [area or distance]. I am prepared to follow the initial training and to keep information about pupils and families confidential.

I would be glad to discuss my application at an interview.

Yours faithfully,[First Name Last Name][Phone] | [Email]

What to highlight

  • Experience with children or teenagers with specific needs
  • Understanding of the difference between supporting and teaching
  • Any training such as the DEAES or courses on autism or dys disorders
  • Availability, including whether you accept shared support across schools
  • Respect for confidentiality

Mistakes to avoid

  • Focusing on your own feelings rather than on the pupil's needs.
  • Describing teaching ambitions, which can suggest you misunderstand the role.
  • Not stating your availability or the area where you can work.
  • Mentioning real pupils' names or diagnoses from past work.

Your job search, on autopilot

Start my special needs teaching assistant job scan

JobFast searches the major job boards for listings that fit you, scores each one out of 10 and prepares a tailored CV and cover letter. You review, you approve.

Start for free

No credit card · No account to get started

Frequently asked questions

Who should I address the letter to?

Check the recruitment page of your académie or DSDEN: some use an online form, others an email address for AESH recruitment. Private schools under contract with the State may also recruit through the education authority. When no name is given, a neutral greeting works.

Can I apply with a foreign teaching assistant qualification?

Yes. Explain what the qualification covered and the types of support you provided. The DEAES is the French reference, but recruitment is also open to people with other qualifications or experience, so describe your practice clearly and show that you can work in French with teachers and families.

Should I mention a disability of my own or a relative?

You can, briefly, if it explains your motivation or a skill such as sign language. It is never required. Keep the focus on what you can do for pupils, and mention it only if you are comfortable with the subject coming up in the interview.

More cover letter examples