NQT Interview

This article first appear in http://www.findersteachers.com/article_19.html

Interviews

Preparing

If you have not already visited the school, try and arrange to do so. This will give you chance to experience that particular schools dynamics, speak to the children and staff and get a idea of the sort of candidate the school requires.  It will also give you ideas for questions you may like to ask in the interview. Keep abreast with current affairs within the education sector, and with national curriculum requirements.  These, coupled with your own personal views and experience will assist you when answering job related questions.  You are likely to be asked about classroom management, discipline, strategy etc, so ensure you have thought about these things and formed set ideas about what you would talk about if required. It is important to dress appropriately for your interview.  Look smart and professional, and wear something that you feel comfortable and confident in.

Since the interview will determine who is the best candidate for the job it is essential for you to prepare thoroughly, as you automatically come across more confident and thus, more able.  Firstly, make sure you have recapped what you have written on your application form, and perhaps form an evidence file to reinforce your experience and ability.

The Interview

Different schools conduct the interview differently; sometimes it will be The Head and the Chair of Governors, whilst other times it could include the Local Authority advising staff.  Do not worry if you feel a little nervous, the interviewers are used to dealing with new candidates, and are aware it is natural.

Take with you a list comprising of any questions you may have, or points you would like to touch upon throughout the course of the interview.  If chance does not arise during the interview, then you can ask them at the end.

When answering questions always include points from your application, and expand on them, ensuring that you draw on your own experience.  Give examples of times you have had to deal with the situation they are asking about, how you handled it, how successful you were, what you learnt from it, and if necessary, what you would do different if dealing with it again. They are trying to establish what you can offer, so speak enthusiastically and confidently, using terms such as “I organised…” “I lead…” “My role…” to reinforce your abilities when answering questions.  Do not just give one word answers.