Teacher interview questions are designed to assess your ability to manage the classroom, create lesson plans, and evaluate student progress. As a result, they are a mix of standard and behavioural questions that delve deep into your motivation, techniques, and teaching philosophy.
In this article, we will examine typical teacher interview questions, show you how to answer them, and introduce you to the best ways to prepare for an interview.
Key Takeaways
Aside from questions, a teacher interview may also include a demonstration lesson, a portfolio discussion, a school tour, and a background check.
Typical school interview questions for teachers examine your ability to transfer knowledge, handle challenges, and manage diverse students.
To land and prepare for an interview, you need to perfect your CV, write a tailored cover letter, review the curriculum and school values, practise answering questions, and dress appropriately.
What to Expect in a Teacher Interview
In a teacher interview, you can expect to be screened more thoroughly than for other professions since you’ll be working with children. Instead of having a simple panel interview, you might be asked to do a demonstration lesson or provide a teacher portfolio with sample lesson plans.
A typical teacher interview stage might go in this order:
Introduction
Lesson plan/portfolio discussion
Questions for the panel
In this process, you may also be given a school tour and introduced to your potential colleagues. Furthermore, make sure to clean up your online presence; schools are likely to conduct a background check either before or after the interview.
15 Most Common Teacher Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
Here are the most common teacher interview questions, along with the best ways to answer them:
#1. Why do you want to be a teacher?
This question explores your motivation for being in this field, so don’t hesitate to get a little personal. Share a story about the teacher who inspired you to pursue this path or the goal you’re striving towards.
Here’s what you can say:
Good Answer
“I want to be a teacher because I enjoy making a difference in someone else’s life, just like my teachers did in mine. For instance, my English teacher helped me understand the power of literature and the written word, which shaped me into the person I am today. I want to have such an effect on my students, too, and help them discover who they truly want to be.”
#2. What is your teaching philosophy?
Your teaching philosophy should highlight what you value the most in your profession and which approach you plan to take with your students. Try to be as specific as possible and focus on the benefits students might reap from it.
This is how you could formulate your answer to this teacher interview question:
Good Answer
“My teaching philosophy stems from the idea that no one is incapable of learning; it’s just that everyone’s learning styles are different, so the one-size-fits-all approach isn’t ideal. Instead, I adapt my teaching style to the learner’s needs and encourage them to take initiative, too. That way, students gain more independence and confidence, which makes them more open to acquiring knowledge.”
#3. How do you handle classroom management?
Classroom management primarily refers to the methods you use to maintain discipline in the classroom. Since this is a crucial skill for a teacher, avoid sounding vague or unsure in your answer.
Try saying something like this:
Good Answer
“At the beginning of the year, I establish specific rules and discuss them with my students to make sure they understand them and consider them fair. This gives them a sense of control; they need to feel like active participants in the classroom.
Throughout the year, I build relationships with my students, which gives me a better insight into their personalities and helps me anticipate problems before they arise. I use a reward system to encourage good behaviour, but I also take a firm approach to sanctioning bad behaviour. Still, I always try to understand why a student acted a certain way to prevent such problems in the future.”
#4. How do you assess student progress?
Assessing student progress is a teacher’s key responsibility, so you can expect to be questioned about it in your interview.
Here is what you can say:
Good Answer
“I assess student progress through formative and summative methods, which give me a well-rounded picture. On a day-to-day basis, I use formative assessment tools, such as homework, assignments, and class discussions. On the other hand, summative methods, like tests and final exams, come at the end of a larger unit.”
#5. Tell us about a challenging student and how you handled them.
This is a so-called behavioural interview question that aims to gauge how you might behave in a specific situation based on your previous experience. To answer it, you should use the STAR method and organise your response according to the situation, task, action, and result structure.
The STAR method is an excellent tool to use whenever you’re telling a story, as it improves the flow and helps the listeners follow it. Otherwise, it’s easy to slip into rambling, which can be confusing and full of irrelevant information.
Here’s how you can use the STAR method to answer this teacher interview question:
Good Answer
“I had a student who frequently disrupted classes and didn’t respond to any disciplinary measures. I was frustrated, but I decided to get to the bottom of this and invited him for a one-on-one conversation. It took a few attempts, but I managed to establish enough rapport for him to open up.
As it turned out, he was dealing with personal issues and struggled to keep up academically. So, I offered extra help and checked in regularly to monitor the situation. With time, both his behaviour and grades drastically improved.”
#6. How do you incorporate technology into the classroom?
Technology is tightly intertwined with teaching nowadays; it’s practically impossible to teach a class without it. In addition, many students respond better to information presented to them digitally, especially through the apps, programs, and games they are familiar with.
So, you should demonstrate that you’re both skilled with technology and open to incorporating its various forms into your classroom. Here’s how you can do that effectively:
Good Answer
“I use technology to enhance learning and teach students how to use it responsibly. I believe it’s essential to help them develop digital literacy and research skills from a young age, so I encourage the use of the internet, as long as it’s done with care and caution.
As for the specific programs, I use Kahoot for gamified assessment, which most students respond to exceptionally well. I also encourage relying on Google Docs for collaborative work, apps with flashcards for studying, and YouTube videos for visual learning. I try to keep up with the trends and find new ways to enhance my teaching with technology.”
#7. What would you do if a student constantly disrupted the class?
This is a real and challenging situation that many teachers have to contend with, so it may come up as an interview question that tests your ability to respond to obstacles.
Let’s see what a good answer to this teacher interview question could be:
Good Answer
“If a student constantly disrupted my class and refused to respond to any corrective measures, I’d try to communicate with them and understand their behaviour. Usually, there’s a reason certain students act out, so I would want to address the underlying cause rather than just treat the symptom.
If this doesn’t work, I would contact the parents and discuss the problem with them. Then, hopefully, we would come to a solution together.”
#8. How do you support students with special needs?
Students with special needs may require additional support from the teacher, so the school administration needs to know you are prepared for this. Demonstrate that you are by giving a concrete answer that entails specific actions you’d take.
Here’s an example:
Good Answer
“Since every student with special needs is different, I work closely with their families and special education staff to better understand the nature of their disability. Then, if necessary, I can break the information down into more manageable chunks, teach extra lessons, prepare visual aids, or anything else that the student might require. I believe patience and active listening are vital in these situations.
Also, I foster a positive classroom environment where no student feels ostracised and encourage other students to help as well. This benefits them, too, as they learn to be more empathetic and tolerant.”
#9. How do you communicate with parents?
While your primary responsibility is communicating with students, interacting with parents is an unavoidable part of an educator’s experience. Thus, you need to know how to talk to them, especially when discussing their child’s struggles and bad behaviour.
Let’s see what you could say in response to this teacher interview question:
Good Answer
“I establish communication with parents early on by introducing myself at the start of the year and explaining how I will be relaying information to them. Of course, I ask them for their preferred method; whether they like emails, messages, in-person meetings, or something else.
I maintain regular communication throughout the year, ensuring that I celebrate successes and keep them updated on their child’s progress. That way, I build a positive relationship, which should be able to withstand negative feedback when it’s necessary. Even when I voice my concerns, I emphasise that no problem is unsolvable if we work together.”
#10. Describe a successful lesson you’ve taught.
This is another behavioural interview question, and, therefore, another opportunity to use the STAR method. Think of a specific lesson you’ve prepared by yourself and taught, preferably one that students enjoyed just as much as you did. Then, briefly describe it following the steps we’ve outlined above.
Here’s what your answer might sound like:
Good Answer
“To encourage my students to take a greater interest in my literature classes, I organised a monthly 'bring a book of your choice' event. I gave them free rein; they could bring their favourite book or any other they wanted to discuss. The only condition was that they prepare a short introduction highlighting why they enjoy this book.
These classes quickly became everyone’s favourites, and I could see students discussing what they might bring in advance. This prompted them to read more and think about literature in a more personal way.”
#11. How do you motivate unengaged learners?
Motivating unengaged learners is another struggle many teachers face, and it’s perhaps even more difficult to handle than disruptive students. After all, a lack of motivation can’t be resolved through punishment and may not even manifest in a way that deserves it.
So, here’s what you can say to impress your recruiters when they ask you this question:
Good Answer
“I think the key to motivating unengaged students is finding something they are good at and showing them that learning can be fun. This requires getting to know them first, including their likes and dislikes, learning styles, interests, and potential obstacles.
Once I understand them better, I can help them choose the learning format that suits them best. It’s important to give them a sense of agency, as they’re likely to be more motivated when they take charge of their own learning.”
#12. How do you stay current with educational trends?
Education is a field that constantly grows and changes; the practices that were successful ten years ago are likely outdated now. Thus, you should stay up-to-date with current trends and incorporate some into your teaching. Of course, not everything will suit every class, but knowing your options can significantly affect your approach.
If you’re asked this teacher interview question, consider the following answer:
Good Answer
“I stay current with educational trends through constant learning; I attend seminars, webinars, and workshops, read news from the field, and interact with my professional network. I use both online and offline sources to keep up, and I spend plenty of time thinking about the ways I could effectively incorporate new methods into my lessons.”
#13. What do you know about our school?
This teacher interview question is designed to check whether you’ve done your research and what information you consider crucial. It’s best to mention the aspects you found particularly impressive, as well as those that align with your values and objectives.
So, say something like this:
Good Answer
“In my research, I saw that your school has an excellent reputation for its inclusive practices and outstanding support programs for students with special needs. Your educational methods align with the most current research, which emphasises the importance of recognising individual student differences and promoting self-guided study.
These are also the main reasons I’m interested in your school. I care deeply about inclusivity and value forward thinking in education.”
#14. How do you differentiate instruction?
This teacher interview question essentially requires you to explain how you adjust your teaching style to meet the diverse needs of different students. When answering, try to be specific.
Here’s how you can do that:
Good Answer
“I differentiate instruction by providing multiple ways to access lesson content, such as visuals, hands-on activities, or audio recordings. I also adjust my support level; some students need more, so I provide more, while others prefer a hands-off approach that allows them to take full control of their learning.”
#15. What are your strengths and weaknesses as a teacher?
The infamous strengths and weaknesses question is unavoidable regardless of the profession, and teaching is no exception. Be careful how you answer it, especially when talking about your shortcomings; you can’t lie, but you also can’t present yourself in a terrible light.
Here’s how you can answer this teacher interview question:
Good Answer
“My greatest strength is my ability to connect with my students and truly understand their struggles, fears, and concerns. This helps me motivate them when they are unengaged, resolve issues that arise, and guide them towards success.
As for my greatest weakness, I believe it is the fact that I take on too many responsibilities at once. I love my job and want to help as many students as I can, but I can get lost in this process and spread myself too thin. However, lately I’ve learned to prioritise and organise myself better.”
What to Ask at the End of a Teacher Interview
At the end of a teacher interview, you’ll be asked whether you have any questions. Use this opportunity to learn more about your potential workplace and the expectations placed on teachers.
Here are some good teacher interview questions to ask:
#1. What support is provided for new teachers?
This question will help you gauge the school’s commitment to its teachers’ successful adaptation. After all, it’s far more challenging to adjust to the work environment when you don’t have a support system to lean on.
Ultimately, it’s a question that can reveal a lot about the school’s priorities and structure, and then you can easily decide whether it is the right fit for you.
#2. How does the school approach professional development?
Asking this question shows that you’re interested in your career growth and want to improve your teaching skills further. Such attitudes are always highly valued by recruiters, so you can boost your standing with a single inquiry.
At the same time, listen carefully to the answer, as it will reveal whether this school can offer you the appropriate channels for development. If not, it’s time to look elsewhere.
#3. What’s the typical class size?
Before you start teaching, you should know how many students you’re expected to handle. Your approach will significantly differ, depending on whether you’re teaching a class of 10 or a class of 30. In fact, some teachers refuse to teach large classes, as they may be incompatible with their teaching styles and priorities.
From your employer’s point of view, this question demonstrates your practical thinking and interest in providing quality instruction. This is especially true if you mention the effect class size can have on your teaching style and highlight the adjustments you might need to make.
#4. How is performance evaluated?
This question helps you understand what the school values the most in its educators, which is crucial if you want to avoid any issues down the line. For instance, if the evaluation methods seem unfair or focus on things that, in your opinion, don’t matter, you’re likely to feel upset or undervalued.
How to Land and Prepare for a Teacher Interview: 5 Short Tips
To land and prepare for a teacher interview, you should perfect your CV, write a tailored cover letter, review the curriculum and school values, prepare for common questions, and dress and act professionally.
Let’s take a look at these teacher interview tips in more detail:
#1. Perfect Your Teacher CV
Before you can ace your interview, you must secure it, and the only way to do that is with a compelling teacher CV that highlights your strengths, achievements, and crucial professional experiences.
You’ll find plenty of advice on writing a perfect CV on our website, but here’s the short version:
CV Writing Tips
Make sure it’s readable
Check your grammar
Include only relevant details
Stick to 1–2 pages
Use professional fonts
#2. Write a Tailored Cover Letter
A cover letter is another vital part of your application that accompanies and expands upon your CV. Use it to further explain some of your skills and achievements, but don’t overdo it; it should still fit on one page.
Also, if you’re applying for several positions, don’t use the same teacher cover letter for each one. Instead, put in extra effort to tailor it, preferably using keywords mentioned in job descriptions.
#3. Review the Curriculum and School Values
Reviewing the curriculum and school values is an integral part of your pre-interview research, so make sure to examine both thoroughly. You can use the school website for this, or you can rely on the Ofsted inspection report, which evaluates the quality of schools, universities, nurseries, and other educational institutions in the UK.
#4. Prepare for Common Teaching Interview Questions
Next, you should prepare for your interview by practising common questions, such as those reviewed in this article. If possible, organise a mock interview with your friends and family to gain experience talking in front of an audience. You can also rehearse in front of a mirror if you have no other options; this will help you pay closer attention to your body language.
#5. Dress and Act Professionally
Finally, don’t forget this important aspect of the teacher job interview preparation: your outfit. While teachers don’t always have to dress formally, it’s best to do so for your interview, as you’ll appear more professional, serious, and confident.
Secure an Interview With Our Professional CV
If you need help landing a teacher interview, use our CV builder to create a compelling application within 15 minutes. All you need to do is pick one of our CV templates, enter the required information, and submit it to the employer; the application process has never been easier.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this article will help you prepare for the most important teacher interview questions, so you can secure a position in the school of your dreams. The key is to be honest while answering, but still focus on your strengths and past achievements.
If you need help landing an interview in the first place, consult our CV examples for guidance. They will show you how to properly organise the information for maximum effect and impress your recruiters.
Teacher Interview Questions FAQ
#1. How long does a teacher interview usually last?
A teacher interview usually lasts between 35 and 45 minutes, though it can be longer, depending on the school. In this sense, it’s about as long as any other interview, giving both the employer and the teacher the opportunity to get to know each other better.
#2. What should I bring to a teacher interview?
You should bring your CV, cover letter, letters of recommendation, and teaching philosophy statement to a teacher interview. In some cases, you may be required to design a lesson plan or show certifications and academic documents. However, you should bring this only if the school specifically asks for it.
#3. How do I follow up after a teacher interview?
You can follow up after a teacher interview by sending a thank-you email to your interviewers and reiterating your interest in the role. This way, you’ll demonstrate your enthusiasm and show appreciation for the opportunity you were given.
