Congratulations! You’ve secured an interview for an exciting educational role, but are you ready for your interview? Read our top tips below to help increase your chances of having a successful job interview and landing your dream job!
1. Do your research:
Make sure to thoroughly research the school before your interview. Reviewing their website will give you a good opportunity to learn about the school’s values, history and even staff structure. This will help you to find and use relatable information when answering any questions that the interviewer may ask you.
2. Choose your interview attire:
If you’re struggling to decide what to wear for your teaching interview, keep it simple! Wear appropriate and professional attire that you feel good and comfortable in. Ensure you have your clothes and shoes looking spick and span the night before the interview!
3. Prepare documents:
Write a checklist of documents to take with you to the interview, such as, a few copies of your CV, any relevant certificates of qualifications and training, legal identification and your teacher’s portfolio, if necessary. Having these documents to hand will help the interview to flow smoothly.
4. Plan your journey:
Arriving late to the interview could affect your chances of being successful, as first impressions are formed very quickly, so make sure to do your research and plan your journey to the interview beforehand. If you’re driving to the interview, check the parking facilities before your journey and use a satnav to ensure you don’t get lost, or check the bus or train times if you’re using public transport to get there. Doing a dummy run journey before the interview day would help you to familiarise yourself with the route. Try to arrive 10-15 minutes before the interview to allow time to calm your nerves and focus on the task ahead.
5. Be confident in yourself:
It’s crucial to remember that you’ve already made it to the interview stage. Your application has been reviewed and they’ve found something that makes you stand out from the crowd. So be confident in your abilities, and try not to let nerves get the better of you.
6. Highlight your experience:
The interview is your time to shine! Make sure you highlight the skills and experience you possess that make you a strong fit for the position you are applying for, such as previous examples of strengths, achievements and how you’ve successfully carried out responsibilities. Include any tangible examples of processes you have implemented or areas where you have made significant improvements when delivering interventions or raising attainment.
7. Show enthusiasm:
One of the key attributes that the interviewer will be looking for is passion. Make sure to speak with energy and enthusiasm to indicate how eager you feel about the role you’ve applied for and try to share any personal stories that will express your passion for teaching and education.
8. Question time:
Asking questions during a teaching job interview is really important, to show that you are interested in learning more about the school. It will also give you a better understanding of your potential new role and what would be expected of you, which can help you to decide if the school will be the right fit for you. Useful questions could include “how does the school support its teachers in professional development and growth opportunities?” and “what is expected from teachers in relation to participating in extra-curricular activities and committees?”. Make notes throughout the interview, so you always have a back-up question to ask if all of your previously prepared questions have already been answered.
9. Finish strong:
When the interview is coming to an end, make sure to ask the interviewer about any next steps to ensure you understand the interview process. Before you leave, try to use this last opportunity to express how interested you are in the role to help solidify your chances, and most importantly, thank the interviewer for their time and consideration.
With some preparation, research and our top tips, you may just be on your way to securing an amazing new job opportunity. If you would like any further support or information in preparation for your interview, contact your justteachers Recruitment Consultant, who will be able to provide additional advice and support.
We wish you all the best of luck with your job interview!
