Your job and career questions answered
Do you have any advice on areas to focus on for interviews for teaching jobs please?
There are three things: what you say, how you say it, and how you convey the meaning, that matter. Some believe that in the time taken to walk from the door to your chair the panel has already formed their main impression about you; and you haven’t even opened your mouth yet. But as far as content is concerned, you’ll normally be asked an ice-breaker, such as why you want the job; and you will have a chance to ask questions at the end.
In interview, focus on how you fit the job description and the needs set out in the person specification. Be prepared to be tested about your experience and values relating to the job and the school. Steer answers to your strong points by giving examples of how you meet their needs. Don’t make it up; better to admit ignorance of a particular area and provide an example of how you coped in such a situation elsewhere.