Before the interview
Here are a list of things to do before the interview:
- The interview process starts as soon as someone calls you - make a good impression
- Have a list of examples from your experiences - what worked/didn't work
- Have a list of answers to common questions (click here for example questions)
- Prepare and photocopy any documents you need to bring - e.g. Professional experience report, academic transcript, certificates
- Know what the school is wanting in a teacher - do your research e.g. read annual school report, mission statement
- Write down reasons you chose the school - e.g. philosophy, ethos, environment
- Plan your trip to the school - know the surroundings
- Be extra early!
- Make sure you have done plenty of research on the school
- Have questions prepared to ask the interviewers
- Choose your outfit wisely - dress appropriately, be presentable
- Remember the 4Ps: prepare, practice, present and participate!
during the interview
Do your best in the interview, here are some guidelines:
- Pay close attention to who is on the panel interviewing you
- Highlight your attribute, knowledge and skills and how that matches with the school
- When asked a question on pedagogy, have examples of a good lesson and a lesson that did not go well
- Use the STAR model: situation, task, action, result
- Do not undersell yourself! Talk about your strengths!
- Show your passion in teaching
- Let your personality and character shine - the interviewers want to see character that is able to engage students
- Sparks of initiative - stand out!
- Be honest if you don't know, do not bluff - ask for clarification if you need
- Do not speak too much, babble/go off track
- Do not lie
- Don't use educational jargon unless you understand it and is relevant
After the interview
Regardless of the outcome of your application and interview, take some time to evaluate how things went and what you perceived to be your strengths and weaknesses. If you've been offered a debriefing, do consider what is said and how you might improve in the future.
Finally, relax! You have done your best, all you can do now is wait for a response. If you don't get the job, at least it has been an experience you can learn from!
For more advice on what to do after your interview, visit http://www.new2teaching.org.uk/tzone/jobs/afterwards.asp.
Finally, relax! You have done your best, all you can do now is wait for a response. If you don't get the job, at least it has been an experience you can learn from!
For more advice on what to do after your interview, visit http://www.new2teaching.org.uk/tzone/jobs/afterwards.asp.
References
Information derived from:
- notes taken at a conference on 18/5/2015 at Shore School, Sydney
- notes taken at NSW/ACT Independent Education Union "starting strong" professional development on 3/7/2015.