What Clients Like To See In An Interview

When we speak to schools after interviews, we’re not just ticking boxes. We’re listening closely to find out what made the candidate stand out.

Whether it’s a teaching role in East London or a support position in Suffolk, the feedback we receive tells us a lot about the candidate and but also what schools genuinely value.

It’s often not just about having the right experience. It’s about how that experience is brought to life during the interview.

It starts with connection

One of the first things schools notice, often before a single question is asked, is whether a candidate seems genuinely interested in them. It’s easy to say you love the job. What really resonates is showing that you’ve done your homework and you understand the school’s ethos, its priorities and the type of community it serves.

Referencing something from the school’s website, Ofsted report or recent news shows thought and effort. It also signals that you’re not just looking for any job — you’re interested in their school.

Confidence makes a lasting impression

Some of the strongest interviews we hear about are not perfect. But they are confident, clear and grounded in real experiences. Schools want to hear how you teach, how you support behaviour and how you would respond in safeguarding situations. Practising these types of questions helps, but what matters most is sounding natural and authentic.

If you don’t know an answer straight away, it’s fine to take a moment. Confidence doesn’t mean rushing or having rehearsed lines. It means knowing your practice and being able to talk about it in a calm, clear way.

Showing your impact

Schools don’t just want to hear what you would do. They want to know what you have done. Whether it’s helping a child with additional needs settle into the classroom, improving attendance through pastoral support or leading a successful intervention, real examples speak louder than theory.

It’s not about grand achievements. It’s about showing the difference you’ve made, however small. Being able to explain what you did, why you did it and what changed as a result gives your answers real weight.

Professionalism beyond the interview room

Another thing schools often highlight is how candidates conduct themselves during the entire visit. That includes how you interact with office staff, your body language on a school tour and how you engage with pupils and teachers alike.

Being polite, punctual and present throughout your time at the school creates a positive impression. These small moments add up and help leaders imagine you as part of their team.

Lesson observations, a chance to shine

For teaching roles, lesson observations often form part of the interview process. This is a great opportunity to show your teaching style in action.

Schools are looking for well-planned lessons that engage pupils and show clear learning objectives. It’s important to be adaptable, if things don’t go exactly as planned, demonstrating how you respond calmly and keep pupils focused is key.

Preparation is important, but remember that authenticity matters most. Showing genuine enthusiasm for the subject, building positive relationships with pupils and managing behaviour confidently will all be noticed.

If you’re invited to deliver a lesson, try to strike a balance between demonstrating your skills and connecting with the pupils. Schools want to see that you’re not just teaching the curriculum, but also fostering a positive and inclusive classroom environment.

Schools are looking for more than just qualifications. They want someone who fits their values, who shows enthusiasm for the role and who understands what it means to be part of a school community.

You don’t need to have all the right answers. But if you prepare well, speak with honesty and show a clear interest in the school and its pupils, you’ll be giving yourself the best possible chance. Having a good sense of what clients like to see in an interview can really help you feel more prepared and confident.

And if you want help preparing for your next interview, our team is always here to support you, whether that’s practising common questions, talking through a lesson plan or simply boosting your confidence before the day.

Do you know someone who would be perfect working in education? Click here for more information on our refer and earn scheme.