How to Prepare for a School Interview

Job interviews can be challenging, especially in the education sector where roles are highly competitive. Fortunately, Bec West from Talking Chalk has shared some fantastic insights on how to prepare for a school interview. Watch her video here for her full advice, and read on for key takeaways that will help you feel confident and prepared when stepping into the interview room.

1. Suit Up: Dress for Success

One of Bec’s first tips is to dress professionally—a good suit can make all the difference in how you present yourself. Whether you prefer a pant suit, skirt, or dress, ensure that it’s comfortable and appropriate. Bec mentions that a jacket can naturally help with posture, making you sit upright and present confidence. Additionally, she advises pulling your hair away from your face and keeping makeup simple to avoid distractions.

2. Arrive Early: Be Prepared

Bec emphasises the importance of arriving well before the interview starts. If the interview begins at 9:15, aim to be there even earlier to avoid last-minute stress. This will also give you time to review your notes and calm your nerves. It’s better to wait in your car for a bit than to be caught in traffic.

3. Reread the Criteria: Stay Focused

Before the interview, take time to review the job criteria. Sometimes in preparing your resume and application, you may lose sight of the key requirements. By re-reading the criteria, you can focus on what the school is looking for, which will help you tailor your responses to demonstrate that you are the right fit.

4. Practice Confidence: The Superman Pose

To help manage interview nerves, Bec recommends the Superman pose (also known as the power pose). Holding this confident posture for 30 seconds can help you feel more self-assured. Though it might seem unconventional, Bec explains that there’s research supporting this technique as a way to boost confidence before a big moment.

5. Don’t Regurgitate Your CV

One common mistake in interviews is simply repeating what’s on your CV. Bec advises against this. Instead, elaborate on key points and provide deeper insights into your achievements. This is your chance to add value to what the interviewers have already read about you. Think about what wasn’t included in your CV but could help you stand out during the interview.

6. Involve All Stakeholders in Your Answers

When responding to questions, consider how your answers apply to all stakeholders—students, parents, teachers, and the community. Bec suggests practicing this beforehand to ensure your answers are holistic and demonstrate how you can contribute to the broader school environment. Tailor your responses to the specific needs and dynamics of the school.

7. Bring Evidence and Examples

It’s helpful to have evidence of your successes ready to share. Bec recommends using photos or other visual aids rather than student work samples. For example, if you organised a school event, show a picture of the event to demonstrate engagement and outcomes. Visual aids can leave a strong impression without overwhelming the interviewers.

8. Show Your Passion

While professionalism is key, don’t forget to show your passion for teaching. Bec reminds candidates that interviews are not just about listing qualifications—they’re also about demonstrating your genuine love for teaching and making an impact in the classroom. Be clear about why you’re excited about the role and how you connect with students.

9. Manage Your Time Wisely

During the interview, you’ll likely be given a set of questions with limited time to answer. Bec advises tracking your time carefully—don’t spend too much time on one question at the expense of others. Practice answering questions succinctly to ensure you deliver complete and balanced responses within the allotted time.

Watch Bec West’s Full Interview Tips

For even more advice, be sure to check out Bec’s full video on how to prepare for a school interview. She covers everything from staying calm during the process to managing tricky interview questions. Watch the full video below