Looking for a better job can often be very stressful for a teacher like going through many interview phases over and over again in some instances. Let’s look at the things you should prepare for and what to avoid.
The first thing to consider, to apply for any job you have to tell your headteacher and line manager. However uncomfortable you’ll inevitably feel, for the most part you’ll find them warm and in-support of your want for a promotion.
Time management can often be difficult to do at the best of times, but during your job hunt, it will become slightly more chaotic. Your applications will often be completed late at night or at weekends, after a long week at school and at the expense of everything else you’d normally be doing.
And when you finally get that all-important interview, how are you supposed to find time for that? Teachers are notoriously under constant pressure with hardly enough time for planning lessons or marking work. Regardless, you will still be expected to perform during your interview and give an outstanding example lesson in the process.
How do you make the best of this process? Here are Cassidy Education’s tips, in avoiding making mistakes at an interview.
Keep it simple
When planning your lesson, consider your objectives, don’t try to cover everything and focus on the parts you’re most passionate about.
Ask questions and engage with students
Do not fall into the trap of hoping you can get your new students to produce some excellent work. Focus on engagement, promoting their enthusiasm and building a good rapport.
Be prepared
You will have no indication prior to delivering your lesson whether or not there will be time for you to prepare. So make sure your ready to start immediately with all the resources you need. Have pencils, paper or printouts you need to hand just in case you need to make an immediate start.
Look professional
Obviously you’ll want to make the first impression and you know to look smart, but don’t forget to be comfortable. The worst case scenario is you find yourself wearing that itchy top or the shirt with the slightly too tight collar.
Do your research
The internet is a wonderful place and finding out if your new school has a “good” or “Needs to Improve” Ofsted rating. Find out and think how you can help the school improve and what you can offer. Check out key policies and base responses to question on real information. This needn’t be exhaustive, but a familiarity with your new school and its policies will surely impress any potential employer.
Blow your own trumpet
Prepare yourself with what you’re good at, your achievements and solid, honest examples of an impact you’ve had or something you’ve initiated. Considering this will allow you to speak with confidence and clarity.
Stay formal
Assume everyone you encounter during your interview is an assessor. From the person touring you around the school to the ta you sit next to during lunch. It’s likely everyone you interact with will let their impressions be known to your interviewer. Be friendly but never assume the person teaching drama isn’t also the deputy head.
