Getting a teaching job : The interview

When you have received an offer of an interview, confirm as soon as possible that you will attend.

Interviews will focus on your application, your teacher training and school experience, previous work experience, interests, suitability for the particular school, and what you can contribute.

What interviewers look for

• Excellent communication skills.
• Positive social skills with pupils and co-workers, with the ability to motivate.
• Classroom management skills.
• Professional knowledge and understanding of your subject.
• A personal philosophy about, and a commitment to, the teaching of your subject(s).
• The ability to reflect on what you have gained from your course and placements and awareness of your own development needs.
• A positive choice for that school and/or local authority (LA).

Types of interviews

The format and style of the interview varies depending on where it is held and who it is conducted by.

Pool interviews

• These are usually held in the offices of the LA and the panel may be made up of a head teacher, an inspector/adviser and perhaps a school governor.
• The result of the interview is usually given a few days later.
• Even if you are successful, you can expect to be interviewed again by any schools interested in you.

Interviews for specific posts

• These usually take place at the school concerned and may include a number of other activities.
• Interviews may last up to an hour and panels are likely to be made up of a combination of teaching staff at different levels of seniority. Governors may also be included.
• Be aware of your body language: smile and try to look relaxed. A firm handshake and eye contact when you meet the panel and answer questions can make a good initial impression.

Interview activities

The interview may be in a typical question and answer format or it could consist of different exercises or activities. These may include:

Informal discussions

These may be with a senior teacher/head of department or other staff and may take place during a school tour. If so, ensure you show an interest by talking to pupils. This is an opportunity to ask questions, but remember you are still being assessed.

Teaching a lesson or part-lesson

You may be asked to teach a class on a given topic. If this is the case, you will be given prior warning. Check available resources at the school before the day. At your interview, you may be asked about your lesson focus and learning outcomes and your evaluation of how the lesson went.

Group discussion

Group discussions are more common in interviews for secondary posts. Topics given to applicants include:

• class management and control;
• recent developments in the teaching of your subject.

You will be assessed on your knowledge of the topic and ability to work in a group. Be sensitive to others in the group and ensure you take an active part without dominating the discussion.

Interview by pupils

You may have an interview with pupils. This is becoming more common even at primary level.

Presentation

You may be asked to give a short presentation to staff or to the interviewing panel. You should be given prior warning of this. Be prepared for questions about your aims and objectives and your evaluation of how it went.