In preparation for your interview, we’ve assembled some common questions that will likely come up during the interview process. See our list of hints and tips below:
Question #1 – I walk into your classroom during one of your lessons, what can I expect to see?
Possible responses:
- Enthusiastic discussions
- Clear progress being made both orally and written
- Engaged students
- Well-behaved and respectful students
When responding, elaborate on your experiences, achievements and student results.
Question #2 – Describe an account of when you have adopted a behaviour management policy and the effect this had on your students?
When providing your example, remember to explain why the need for the policy in the first place, how you implemented it and the response of the students. It is also good to demonstrate your own growth from this experience and discuss how you could implement/adapt/improve such a policy in the future.
Question #3 – If I spoke to one of your colleagues, what would they say about you?
The question is really trying to get you to demonstrate your own contribution to school life, not just for students but your peers also. For extra points you can detail how you wish to be viewed by your colleagues in the future, this is especially important if you are applying for a senior position.
Question #4 – Why is (insert any subject here) taught in schools?
This question looks obvious on the surface but it can be quite a difficult question to answer. This is more evident when the subject is Maths or English etc as the answer appears obvious initially but when trying to validate the inclusion of said subject in the curriculum it can be very difficult to quantify.
Possible responses:
- To enhance other subjects
- Improve a student’s career prospects
- Encourage independent learning
- Develop skills (Literacy, numeracy, ICT, etc)
- Promote self-discipline
- Improve health and fitness
Your responses will of course be dependent on the subject you teach. Be honest and think outside of the box, provide realistic reasons and support with good examples of how your subject has enriched the life of your students.
Question #5 – Why do you want to work in special education?
Be honest and explain your reasons, remember that your interviewer is looking to see that you understand a need for education over just simply caring for students with Special Educational Needs.
Question #6 – Random question based on an inclusion in your CV.
This is another reason why your CV should always be up to date and only contain genuine qualifications and experience, that way you don’t need to prepare for this too much. Be honest and answer fully, providing details and examples wherever necessary and possible.
Question #7 – What is it about our school that makes you want to work here?
It is important that you demonstrate to the interviewer you have done some background work about the school and you have specific reasons for wishing to join the school. Initially you will need to scour their website to familiarise yourself with the school, their policies, campus, etc. Pick out something that genuinely appeals to you and for extra points, identify some reasons based on your visit and experiences during the interview process.
Question #8 – What do you think students look for in teachers?
To be: fair and consistent, enthusiastic, humourous, passionate about their subject with an ability to involve everyone in the lesson and encourage contributions.
Question #9 – Can you evaluate your one-off lesson?
Teaching a lesson as part of the interview process is often a source of anxiety, but it shouldn’t be, it’s a great way for you to evaluate the school and for the interviewer to evaluate you. The interviewer will want you to be honest and be self-critical when necessary but also recognises what went well.
Question #10 – What do we lose if we decide not to offer you the position?
This is the closing question often used by interviewers, they want you to sell yourself, let them know what you are about and how you can enhance their school. Remember to be confident and enthusiastic, this is your chance to close the deal.
Right! Now that you’re ready for the interview, let’s take a look at what jobs are currently available. Click to view Live Jobs on Cassidy Education website or submit your CV so we can aid you in your search.
