Prep For Success: The Art of Interviewing at Schools

Do you have a job interview coming up? Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a first-timer, we encourage you to read on and acquaint yourself with our advice – which is based on decades of experience in education and education recruitment – to ensure you’re adequately prepared and ready to ace the interview.

Step 1: Do your research

Schools want to see clear indications you have done your homework. You should be able to talk about why the vacant position appeals to you and how your own teaching style will complement the current program.

Other components of a school’s make-up: such as school size, location and student diversity (EAL, additional needs etc) are worth considering whilst doing your interview preparation.

Step 2: Consider & rehearse answers for common interview prompts and questions

Although no two interviews are ever identical, there are obvious patterns that have emerged and questions that consistently pop up.

Think about the following:

• How you would answer a question about quality teaching and learning
• What are the different ingredients that make up a good lesson? – be prepared to give an example
• What are your strengths as a teacher?
• The different ways you differentiate – think about some concrete examples
• What areas of your teaching are you keen to develop?
• An example of a lesson that worked out well, and why?
• An example of a lesson that didn’t work well and what you did/how you reflected on it/what you would do to make it work in the future?

Common Questions & Answers

Safeguarding

Safeguarding in schools is of the utmost importance. As adults working in schools, we have a duty of care and must recognise our obligation to keep children safe and to report concerns to the relevant designated professional within your school.

We recommend you familiarise yourself with the document ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ which you can read in full here.

Step 3: Prepare your own questions

A simple yet effective technique that most interviewers will be expecting, but appreciate, nonetheless.

You want to be an active participant in the conversation, it will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved and reassure the school you are invested.

It also gives you an opportunity to find out more about the school and the role you are applying for. You still need to be satisfied that it is the right fit for you.

Step 4: Sell yourself

It is paramount you promote yourself through personal examples of your success.

You’re probably sick of hearing it, but stories are a treasured currency in any interview, and help the interviewers contextualise your qualities.

Think about how you are different, your individuality – why you deserve the post over another applicant with comparable qualifications. It may be your coaching, extra-curricular activities, your academic experience or your life experience.

Don’t suppress your personality. Your uniqueness can often set you apart from a pool of candidates that have similar qualifications and experience to you.

And show commitment. If you don’t sound committed to the interview or to attending, you will not be offered the position.

Step 5: Dress appropriately

Check with the school and your consultant before deciding on your attire for the interview as it can vary quite wildly. 

Some schools, especially primary, will not expect you to dress too formally, while at others you will be required to wear a jacket and tie.

Generally, we would suggest you match the dress code of the teachers already at the school.

Step 6: Plan your journey

Plan your journey in advance and check to see if there are alternate routes you can access if anything unexpected happens (it shouldn’t)

Do not be late.

Step 7: Contact Nurture Education

If you’d prefer to discuss your upcoming interview with us, and receive personalised advice relevant to your interview, get in contact with Nurture Education.

Our resident expert Jay Treloar has helped hundreds of teachers and teaching assistants successfully complete their interviews and receive offers.

A little preparation goes a long way. If you heed even some of our advice, you will be well placed to perform with the confidence and professionalism schools are seeking in their staff.

Remember, the interview is also an opportunity for you to vet the school and ensure it is the right fit for you. Good luck!

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