YOUR INTERVIEW

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YOUR INTERVIEW

If you are invited for an interview, you have a good chance of getting the job. When you prepare for the day, keep in mind what the interviewers will be looking for:

  • Who matches the job criteria
  • Who will fit with the existing staff
  • What contribution you will make to the work of the school
  • Your personal philosophy of teaching
  • Your motivations and satisfactions
  • The way you interact with pupils

Interview procedures are gruelling in some schools and can last for the entire day or longer so to flounder when you hit a mid-afternoon ‘low’ could be a disadvantage.

Make sure you have a practice interview with your mentor or another trusted, experienced colleague.

EAT SENSIBLY the day before the interview.

You want to give the impression of ENERGY and VITALITY.

Always THINK POSITIVELY – no negative vibes.

When ANXIETY strikes, slow, deep breaths are extremely calming (see ‘Stress Management’ handout). Quell nerves by being WELL-PREPARED. Read the Education press so that you are familiar with latest developments – there could be questions on current changes. Take a folder with you with the following areas divided by subject dividers:

  1. Information about the school, Ofsted, prospectus, etc and copy of your application form.
  2. An example of a good lesson.
  3. An example of a lesson (further development).
  4. Examples of pupils’ work / feedback / photographic evidence.
  5. Whole school / extra curricular contributions.

You should receive advance warning of what is planned for your interview day. Many schools:

  • Require candidates to talk to several members of staff (including management/governors) and to be interviewed by sub groups (e.g. curriculum / pastoral).
  • Question informally over lunch.
  • Arrange for candidates to speak with groups of pupils.
  • Require candidates to teach part of a lesson.
  • Require candidates to undergo an interview of at least an hour.

Always remember to present an element of flexibility. Rigid views could get you into difficulty.

Closed questions aim at extracting specific information.

Open questions offer you the chance to expand on your knowledge and skills.

Answer as honestly as possible – if you are offered the job, you will have to live with your words!

You will have the opportunity to ask questions you may have at various stages and should strike the delicate balance between inquisitiveness and domination. Plan some questions in advance that like to what you know of the school or use some of these:

What induction programme do newly qualified teachers have here?

What types of information and communication technology support do teachers and associate staff use?

What strategies are in place relating to CPD and whole school INSET?

What would my starting salary be? – (Do not ask this straight away!)

Many schools decide on the interview day – this saves lots of anguish/anticipation but do not be rushed into a decision, especially if you have other interviews lined up. It is reasonable to ask for 24 hours to decide.

If you are not successful, take advantage of the DEBRIEFING.

This is invaluable.

Making the First Move

Don’t wait for a vacancy if there is a particular school in which you want to work. A speculative application could put you at the top of the list when a vacancy occurs. Send in a CV including a skills summary and a “broadcast letter” announcing your availability.

Make sure your letter highlights your achievements and outstanding skills, matching them where possible to what you know of the school. One side of A4 should be plenty of space to sell yourself. Take care not to plead. Ask an experienced colleague to read it through and give you feedback.

Writing a Supporting Statement

Start by making a checklist of key points from the job description. Make a list of your unique selling points. Begin with impact. Convey a sense of your personality. Include skills and achievement. Use impeccable grammar and be punchy and purposeful in your language. Include additional information on hobbies, travel, voluntary work and interests.

What Should You Wear?

Try to find out about school’s dress code. Dark colours are usually most appropriate. Avoid extremes in style and go for comfort. A suit or toning separates are good choices. Style your hair in such a way that it won’t need constant adjustment. Be moderate in your use of accessories and fragrances.

The Right Body Language

A written job offer should follow which you should accept formally.

All job offers are subject to CRB checks.

If you are given the chance to work at the school or attend induction before your official start date, you should use this opportunity since it can greatly ease the stress of your first weeks.