First of all, congratulations on landing an interview! You've tackled the first hurdle, but the biggest challenge is just over the horizon. If you're an ECT looking for your first teaching job, you might be more nervous than excited right now. Don't just wing it - go in as prepared as you can be with our top interview tips for teachers. So here are our top teaching interview tips for 2025.

1. Know the Role & the School

Before you do anything else, dig into the job description and the school you’re interviewing for.

What are the key competencies the school is looking for? What’s the vision or ethos of the establishment? Are there recent Ofsted findings, or the school’s website blog that hints at their priorities?

By aligning your answers to what this specific school wants, you’ll feel far more confident when you’re asked, “Why do you want to join us?”

2. Prepare for the Big Questions – and Use the STAR Method

Many teaching interview questions focus on situations, such as how you handled something in the past, or how you would handle something in the future. One of the most effective frameworks to answer is the STAR method:

• Situation — Set the context.
• Task — What needed to be done.
• Action — What you did (and how).
• Result — What was achieved (and ideally, how you know).

For example, when asked, “Tell me about a time you dealt with a disengaged class”, you’ll give a clear example instead of rambling. Authenticity is way more impressive than perfection.

3. Brush Up on Virtual/Hybrid Interview Etiquette

With more schools using video or hybrid interview formats in 2025, make sure you’re prepared for that scenario too.

Check your technology ahead of time, ensure your background is professional, and think about eye contact (camera vs. screen), lighting and minimising distractions.

If you’re in person, you still want to arrive well ahead of time and give yourself a few moments to settle and breathe.

4. Be Ready to Talk About Challenges & Growth

Nobody expects a flawless past – they want growth, resilience and self-awareness. If you’re asked about a “weakness” or “a time it didn’t go to plan,” don’t shy away.

Instead, talk about what you learned and what you’d do differently now. This shows you’re reflective and aligned with continuous improvement, which is key in teaching.

5. Show Your Personality & Why You’re Unique

Teaching is both professional and personal. You’re not just a subject expert, you’re a mentor. So let your personality show.

Be authentic. Talk about how your unique experience will help you connect with the students and school community. That uniqueness is often what sets you apart from other excellent candidates.

6. Ask Insightful Questions

You’re not just being judged, you’re also interviewing the school or trust. Prepare thoughtful questions like:

• “How does the school support professional development for new teachers?”
• “What does success look like in the first year for this role?”
• “How can I contribute beyond the classroom?”

Questions like these show you’ve thought ahead, you’re invested, and you’re ready to be part of the wider school team.

7. Follow Up & Seek Feedback

After the interview, send a thank-you email or note (even if the school later tells you they’re going with someone else).

Demonstrating professionalism and gratitude leaves a great impression. Also, ask for feedback. If you weren’t successful this time, understanding why means you’ll be better prepared for the next one.

Your next teaching interview is more than just answering questions. It’s your opportunity to show how you’ll be part of the school community. Let  your genuine passion for education shine.

If you’d like extra support, resources or want help finding your next role, our team at Smile Education is ready when you are. Give us a call on 0121 392 6570 or contact us to learn more.