If you're a graduate looking to get into teaching and need to get a feel for the kind of questions employers might ask at interview, then make sure you research these graduate teaching interview questions below. These questions and answers are taken from real graduate interviews, and compiled to give you an idea of what to expect and how to prepare your answers.
Example Teaching Interview Questions:
1. Do you have any skills, experience or interests that you think relate to being a teacher?
There are many 'transferable skills' which will serve you well as a teacher, particularly the ability to plan and organise your work well, and a confident presentation style. What's most important is for you to have some experience of working with young people and recent experience of life in a state-maintained school.
Interviewer Expectation: Assess transferable skills such as communication, organisation, and any experience working with young people.
Example Answer:(Situation) During university, I volunteered at a local youth centre. (Task) My role was to assist with homework clubs, helping children aged 8–12 with their studies. (Action) I planned engaging activities and adapted explanations to suit different learning styles. (Result) This experience enhanced my communication skills and confirmed my interest in teaching.
2. What do you think are the main differences between education today and in your own school days?
The National Curriculum has probably evolved since you were at school, even if you left relatively recently there have still been more vocational subjects have been introduced into the curriculum. Research specific changes as they will be personal to you depending on when you left school. Schools also employ more technology in a greater range of subjects than it's likely you were used to.
Interviewer Expectation: Evaluate awareness of educational developments, such as curriculum changes and technology integration.
Example Answer: (Situation) Reflecting on my school experience, technology was limited. (Task) I researched current educational practices during my degree. (Action) I noticed the increased use of interactive tools and a greater emphasis on student-centred learning. (Result) This understanding has prepared me to incorporate modern techniques into my teaching approach.
3. Have you ever been in a situation when you've had to make a difficult topic interesting and accessible?
The challenge for teachers of all subjects is to make them interesting and accessible to young people. You shouldn't assume that any topic is too dull or difficult. There are many resources, especially online, available to teachers to help them develop ideas and plans for lessons in a way that is interesting to young people. Some practice in presenting difficult subjects, for example to young people on work experience, or experience of teamwork, perhaps through working with young people in a voluntary situation, will be useful to you.
Interviewer Expectation: Gauge creativity and ability to simplify complex information.
Example Answer: (Situation) In a university presentation, I explained statistical concepts to peers unfamiliar with the topic. (Task) My goal was to make the content engaging. (Action) I used real-life examples and interactive quizzes. (Result) The audience grasped the concepts effectively, and I received positive feedback on my teaching methods.
4. How would you handle a student who is consistently disruptive in class?
Interviewer Expectation: Assess classroom management strategies and empathy.
Example Answer: (Situation) During a teaching placement, a student frequently interrupted lessons. (Task) I needed to address the behaviour constructively. (Action) I spoke privately with the student to understand underlying issues and implemented a behaviour chart to encourage positive actions. (Result) The student's behaviour improved, creating a better learning environment.
5. Can you describe a time when you worked effectively as part of a team?
Interviewer Expectation: Evaluate collaboration and teamwork skills.
Example Answer: (Situation) In a group project at university, we were tasked with creating a lesson plan. (Task) My role was to coordinate research efforts. (Action) I facilitated meetings, delegated tasks based on strengths, and ensured open communication. (Result) We delivered a comprehensive plan and received high marks for our collaboration.
6. How do you plan to incorporate technology into your teaching?
Interviewer Expectation: Understand proficiency with educational technology and its application.
Example Answer: (Situation) During my degree, I explored various educational tools. (Task) I want to enhance student engagement through technology. (Action) I would create interactive presentations using platforms like Kahoot! and integrated multimedia resources. (Result) I would want these tools to increased participation and make lessons more dynamic.
7. Describe a time when you had to adapt your communication style.
Interviewer Expectation: The interviewer is looking for evidence of clear communication and the ability to tailor your approach for different learners. They want to see empathy, awareness of learning differences, and a willingness to adjust your style to support understanding.
Example Answer: (Situation) While volunteering as a peer mentor at university, I supported a first-year student who struggled with written instructions. (Task) My goal was to help them understand academic tasks clearly. (Action) I began using visual guides and one-on-one discussions to explain assignments. I also checked for understanding regularly. (Result) They felt more confident, and their performance improved across multiple modules.
8. What strategies would you use to support students with varying learning needs?
Interviewer Expectation: Evaluate understanding of differentiation and inclusive practices.
Example Answer: (Situation) In a university workshop, I was assigned to design a lesson for diverse learners. (Task) I aimed to cater to different abilities. (Action) I incorporated group activities, visual materials, and hands-on tasks to address various learning styles. (Result) The inclusive approach was well-received and highlighted the importance of adaptability.
9. How do you stay informed about current educational practices?
Interviewer Expectation: Assess commitment to professional development.
Example Answer: (Situation) Recognising the evolving nature of education, I sought ways to stay updated. (Task) I aimed to broaden my knowledge beyond coursework. (Action) I attended educational seminars, subscribed to teaching journals, and participated in online forums. (Result) This proactive approach keeps me informed about innovative teaching methods.
10. Why do you want to pursue a career in teaching?
Interviewer Expectation: Understand motivation and passion for the profession.
Example Answer: (Situation) Reflecting on my academic journey, I found joy in helping peers understand challenging concepts. (Task) I realised my passion lay in facilitating learning. (Action) I engaged in tutoring and volunteering opportunities to gain experience. (Result) These experiences solidified my desire to become a teacher and make a positive impact on students' lives.