A covering letter is an important letter that accompanies your CV and application form (if used).  It should be brief and to the point. 

Your covering letter should:

• (Ideally) be word-processed
• Be addressed to the name given in the advertisement or in the accompanying letter sent to you with the application form
• Include the job reference and any other relevant details from the advert or application form
• Include your contact details
• Say why you are interested in the job and give examples of the sort of qualities that would make you a likely candidate.

Remember to check your spelling and keep a copy to read before the interview.

If you are not sending a CV with the letter, then you should include details of your qualifications, work experience and related skills.

Further information: 

View an example of a covering letter (PDF)