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The Basics Just like in any interview, there are a few basic things to remember to help you give the very best impression to the college or institution of your choice. Firstly, it is important to plan your journey. Ensure you know the route and arrive early. It can be a good idea to do a 'trial run' a few days before you have to make the journey for real. On the day, ensure you have the relevant contact numbers, just incase you get delayed. It is essential to make the right impression, the way you dress will convey that image. But you also need to ensure that you are comfortable, interviews generally last most of the day. You should also be aware of your body language, smile, shake hands with those you meet and sit up straight. If a panel interviews you, give your attention to everyone in front of you. Eye contact is essential. When applying for a teacher training post at your chosen institution, you will have been asked to write a personal statement. You will have had a limited amount of space to sell yourself, the interviewer will want you to expand on your personal statement and find out more about you, so you must know your personal statement well. To secure that teacher training post, you must have a good understanding of what is required of a teacher and have a good knowledge of current educational matters. Two ways that you can ensure this, is to firstly gain some work experience in a school, observing teachers and supporting them in the classroom environment. Also, read the educational supplements that are available in many newspapers and online, such as the TES, Guardian, Independent and the Education section on the BBC website. It is also essential to do specific research into the institution you have applied to and the course that they offer. The Interview The interview will vary depending on the institution you have applied to, on the subject's requirements and the number of applicants. However, typically an interview day will run with three components. There will be a teamwork task. The interviewer will be looking for a range of skills, specifically communication and listening skills. They also wish to see the role you assume when working with others. The second activity will include a group presentation. Usually you are asked to create the presentation as a group, but it is an opportunity to demonstrate your ability and confidence when presenting in front of others. This is a key skill at any level of teaching. There will also be time set a side during the day for a one-to-one interview. This part of the interview usually lasts about twenty minutes and is the opportunity for you to get across your enthusiasm, skills and experience. It will also give you time to ask questions of your interviewer and about the institution. This is where a good knowledge of the college and its course will be essential. It is during the one to one interview that you will be given the opportunity to present and discuss the lesson plan you will have been asked to prepare for the day. Finally, some institutions require you to complete a maths and written test, including grammar and spelling. It is important that you consult the institution's website and paperwork you have been given so that you know if these tests are required on the day. The more prepared you are for all of the interview activities, the smoother your day will go. Practice Makes Perfect Before you go to your teacher training interview, it can really help you to stay calm by preparing some answers to the typical questions you will encounter on the day. Prepare some key points about yourself that you wish to convey to the interviewer. When you get asked a question, aim to illustrate one of these qualities in your answer. Also, the better your research about the teaching profession, the better your answers will be on the day, and the less you will be surprised by a potentially difficult question. You can find lots of resources and practice questions online. Some of the websites with frequently asked questions, practice questions and potential answers include: - University of Kent http://www.kent.ac.uk/careers/interviews/ivteaching.htm - TES: New Teachers http://newteachers.tes.co.uk/news/swotting-your-pgce-interview/46283 - Target Jobs http://targetjobs.co.uk/career-sectors/teaching-and-education/initial-teacher-training/ace-your-interview-for-a-teacher-trai - Department for Education http://www.education.gov.uk/get-into-teaching/faqs/becoming-a-teacher.aspx If you need to develop your Interview Skills, contact for job seekers coaching and tips.
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