Having worked in education for over 20 years and interviewed many staff, I would like to share some of the most common interview questions that you may be asked as a supply teacher:
• What personal characteristics will you bring to this role?
• What makes you different from the other candidates outside in the waiting room?
• How do you use data to facilitate learning?
• Why is it important that all groups make progress? How would you achieve this?
• Can you give an example of when you facilitated learning within a classroom environment, and the strategies you used?
• You have taught supply before, how will this be beneficial to the position?
• How has supply teaching developed your behaviour for learning in the classroom?
• Can you tell me about the new SEN policy that was introduced in 2014?
• Can you give an example of when you have resolved a behavioural issue with a student?
• In your eyes what should a good/outstanding lesson look like?
• If you did have a challenging behavioural issue and it was not resolved, what would you do?
• If a student disclosed a child protection issue to you, what would you do?
The interview is looking to test candidates under pressure. The most important point is that you are relaxed, comfortable and take time to consider your answers; this will allow your personality to shine through.
Don’t worry if you forget something, ask the interviewer to repeat the question, take a deep breath, gather your thoughts, and go again!
If you don’t understand a question ask them to repeat it. If you are unsure of the answer be honest, don’t waffle.
Questions you may want to ask them: What CPD do you have in place to support my teaching. If you are an ECT what support is in place to help me through my NQT year.
Have you come across any other interesting supply teaching interview questions? How did you deal with them? Share your experiences in the comments section: we are always keen to hear about what goes on in our industry.
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