Teacher Interview Preparation Guide
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Teacher related Frequently Asked Questions by expert members with job experience as Teacher. These questions and answers will help you strengthen your technical skills, prepare for the new job interview and quickly revise your concepts

50 Teacher Questions and Answers:

1 :: Tell us how will you manage challenges at work as Teacher?

Interviewers will want to hear that you're aware of the challenges in your PGCE, teacher training or NQT year and have the stamina and dedication to cope. Perhaps describe a demanding situation, giving details of how you successfully managed the varying demands. This could be your experience of studying and working at the same time - experience of preparing lessons and managing a teaching caseload would be especially relevant.

2 :: Tell us why should we appoint you? What would we be missing out on by not appointing you?

A related question is 'what are you bringing to the role of a teacher?'

Don't be modest in putting across your strong points during the interview. You might start with, 'As you can see from my application…' and then lead into a quick rundown of your qualifications and relevant experience. If you haven't already, present your strengths and how you can utilise to enhance education in their school.

3 :: Explain me about your classroom management style?

Your answer should demonstrate how you achieve effective student management and control. Include aspects such as monitoring, modeling, environmental control and reinforcement. Explain how you are able to adapt your style according to the situation. Provide examples.

4 :: Explain me what are your thoughts on team-teaching?

I am sure many of you have participated in team-teaching and realize the benefits of this strategy. The interviewer who asks this question wants to discover, if you are flexible, enjoy working in a team environment, have experience in this area, and what your viewpoints are on the subject.

It is always wise to speak about some of the positive aspects of team-teaching, such as:
It is an effective strategy for teaching large groups of students. Encourages teachers to collaborate and generate ideas ... two heads are always better than one! Talk about team-teaching experiences you have had, and the positive results that transpired.

5 :: Tell us what qualities in you made you choose teaching as a profession?

Education is the key for the development of the society and teaching is profession where a continuous learning and sharing of knowledge happens. Personally am a very enthusiastic learner and a good communicator with a strong zeal to do contribute to the society. Hence chose this profession to enlighten the young minds and drive them for a better life.

6 :: Tell me what techniques do you follow to ensure active participation of the students in the class?

Communication should always be two way. The teacher delivering the lesson and students listening to it is an old style; the teachers today need to be facilitators. Simple techniques like giving small assignments on the subject, conducting quiz competitions and making presentations on the topics helps students to gain interest on the subject.

7 :: Explain me what other activities you like to be involved in the school?

Think of your own interests and share opinions in different areas like coaching the students in sports, counseling the student on creating awareness on harassment and molestation, creating awareness on healthy food habits etc which can help the society as a whole.
Describe your relations with the principal and other teachers in the current job.A good interpersonal relation with the principal and teachers is very much necessary to fulfill the objectives of the institutions. There would be some differences of opinions which need to be sorted and handled with maturity. Illustrate the situations when you have shared happy moments both professionally and in personal life with your team.

8 :: Explain me what is your career goal and where do you want to see yourself in the next 10 years?

This question is to check on how aspiring the individual is rather than just being contended with the current position.

One can say something like - My career goal is to become the head of an educational institute. The experience gained till now gives me a confident feeling that I can achieve my goal in the next 10 years.

9 :: Tell us why do you want to be a teacher?

You need to give evidence that teaching is your first choice, not a plan B. Tell them about your motivation and aim to show your passion for teaching. Provide good examples from your time in school and the specific teaching elements that you find satisfying. Avoid broad responses such as 'I have always wanted to be a teacher'.

10 :: Tell us what are the core skills and qualities that pupils look for in teachers?

Match the skills you have with those you know the school are looking for, as outlined in the job description or person specification. Key skills looked for in teaching interviews include:

☛ passion for teaching/the subject
☛ good communication and organisation
☛ critical thinking
☛ patience
☛ sense of humour
☛ ability to communicate new ideas and concepts
☛ liking young people.

Draw attention to your assets, however obvious some of the points on this list might seem, by giving great examples of when you have successfully demonstrated them.