Interview Tips for PGCE Students

Starting a teaching career after completing a PGCE can feel overwhelming, especially when facing your first teaching job interview. You might be worried about your limited experience in the classroom and what you can do to set yourself apart from more experienced candidates.

Understand What Interviewers Are Looking For

Interviewers want to see your potential as a teacher, not just your past experience. They focus on your:

• Passion for teaching: Show enthusiasm for helping students learn and grow.

• Understanding of pedagogy: Demonstrate knowledge of teaching methods and how you plan lessons. As a PGCE student, these will still be fresh in your mind.

• Classroom management skills: Explain how you will maintain a positive learning environment.

• Reflective practice: Share how you learn from experiences and improve your teaching.

• Commitment to professional development: Highlight your willingness to continue developing.

  
  

Even with limited experience, you can prepare examples that show these qualities from your PGCE placements, volunteering, or any other related activities.

Prepare Your Answers with Specific Examples

Interviewers will often ask competency-based questions. Use the STAR method to structure your answers.

• Situation: Describe the context briefly.

• Task: Explain your role or responsibility.

• Action: Detail what you did.

• Result: Share the outcome or what you learned.

  
  

For example, if asked about managing challenging behaviour, you might say:

During my placement at a secondary school, I noticed a student struggling to stay focused. I introduced short, engaging activities and positive reinforcement, which helped improve their participation over a few weeks.

This approach shows your problem-solving skills and adaptability. The important thing here is however, don't rush your answers! You will find yourself talking about things not related to the question. Instead, when the question is asked, pause... take a few seconds to bullet point the STAR Method in your head and then begin answering. You will notice a lot more clarity in your responses

Research the School Thoroughly

Knowing about the school’s ethos, curriculum, and community helps you tailor your answers and ask insightful questions. Check the schools website, you might find:

• The school’s values and priorities

• Special programs or extracurricular activities

• Academic achievements

  
  

Mentioning these during your interview shows genuine interest and preparation.

Practice Teaching Demonstrations

Many PGCE interviews include a lesson observation or teaching demonstration. To prepare:

• Choose a clear, manageable topic. Although, some schools may give you a topic.

• Plan a lesson with clear objectives and activities.

• Include ways to engage all students.

• Prepare resources in advance.

• Practice timing to fit the allotted period.

You won't really have to deal with negative behaviour in an interview lesson as the students tends to be more focused when a new member of staff walks in. It is an opportunity to showcase what you have practiced. Focus on clear instructions, checking understanding, and adapting if needed. Afterwards, be ready to discuss your choices and reflect on what went well or could improve. This is key, the interviewer is fully aware that this is not going to be your best lesson so, make sure that you know what the areas for improvements were.

Dress and Present Yourself Professionally

First impressions matter. Dress smartly but comfortably, suitable for a school environment. Arrive early to avoid stress and give yourself time to settle.

Maintain positive body language: smile, make eye contact, and listen carefully. Speak clearly and confidently, even if you feel nervous. When you are going on a tour of the school, maintain that positive body language to show that you are genuinely interested. The receptionist in schools are some of the nicest people, be sure to show them a good first impression as well as they become the face you see every morning!

Prepare Thoughtful Questions to Ask

At the end of the interview, you will likely have a chance to ask questions. Prepare these beforehand to show your interest but also to help you understand the role and the school better. Here are some examples:

• How does the school support new teachers?

• What professional development opportunities are available?

• How does the school involve parents and the community?

• In your opinion, what is the schools greatest strength?

• What are some challenges that the school is facing and how are you working to overcome those?

  
  

Of course, you can ask questions that fit your own needs and requirements but avoid questions about salary or holidays at this stage.

Manage Interview Nerves

Feeling nervous is normal. To manage this:

• Practice deep breathing before the interview.

• Visualise a positive outcome.

• Prepare thoroughly to boost confidence.

• Remember that interviewers expect nerves and focus on your potential.

  
  

If you get stuck on a question, pause, take a breath, and answer as best you can.

I hope that you may find these helpful, if you have any specific questions reach out to me!