If you’re preparing for a teaching job interview right now, first of all, congratulations! That’s such an exciting step in your journey. I know from experience that interviews can feel a bit daunting (I remember sitting in the car beforehand with my heart racing and hands a little shaky), but they’re also an amazing opportunity. An interview is your chance to share your passion, showcase your skills, and give a school a glimpse into the kind of teacher you’ll be in their classrooms and community.

Back when I was applying for teaching jobs, I had my fair share of nervous moments. I’d spend hours rehearsing answers in front of the mirror and wondering if I was saying the “right” thing. Over time, though, I learned a few simple strategies that made the whole process feel so much easier and actually enjoyable. I realized that interviews aren’t about being perfect. They’re about showing up authentically, with all the enthusiasm, creativity, and care that makes you you.

So, whether this is your very first interview or your tenth, here are my top tips to help you step into that room with confidence and leave feeling proud of yourself.

1. Do your homework

One of the best ways to feel prepared is to research the school. Review their website, browse their social media, and take note of their values and accomplishments. Do they focus on creativity? Inclusivity? Strong links to the local community?

I used to highlight key things and think about how my own teaching aligned. For example, if a school had a big focus on STEM, I’d share an example of a STEM-based lesson I’d created. If their values were around community engagement, I’d talk about the time I involved families in a classroom project. These little details show that you’re genuinely invested in their school, not just any job.

2. Bring real-life examples

Interview panels love to hear stories. It’s one thing to say “I differentiate my lessons,” but it’s far more powerful to share a story about the time you adapted a unit to support a student with additional needs and what the outcome was.

Always make sure you have a few “go-to” examples ready: one about classroom management, one about student growth, and one about collaboration with colleagues or parents. That way, no matter the question, you’ve got something meaningful to draw on. Stories make you memorable, and they give the panel a real sense of what it’s like to have you as part of their school.

3. Prep for the classics

There are some questions that almost always come up. Over the years, I learned it’s worth having answers prepared for things like:

• How do you support different learning needs?

• What’s your approach to behavior management?

• How do you build relationships with parents and carers?

• How do you handle challenges in the classroom?

You don’t need to script your answers word-for-word (in fact, that can make you sound less natural), but jotting down a few bullet points for each will give you a safety net. It helped me avoid that “blank mind” moment when nerves kicked in.

4. Let your passion shine

Enthusiasm is contagious! Don’t be afraid to let your love for teaching shine through. Whether it’s the joy of watching a student have a lightbulb moment or your excitement about building a supportive classroom community, passion goes a long way.

5. Ask your own questions

Asking thoughtful questions shows you’re not just interested in getting a job but that you’re interested in building a career and being part of their community.

Some good questions might be:

• What kind of mentoring or support do you offer new teachers?

• What professional development opportunities are available?

• How does the school support teacher wellbeing?

These kinds of questions not only impress the panel but also help you figure out if this is the right school for you. Remember, it’s a two-way street.

6. Dress for confidence

I used to stress way too much about what to wear. Over time, I realized the trick is to pick something professional, neat, and, most importantly, comfortable. When you feel comfortable, you naturally carry yourself with more confidence.

Think of it as dressing for “teacher mode.” You want to look polished and approachable, like the version of yourself who walks into a classroom ready to inspire.

7. Take a breath (you’ve got this)

Nerves are completely normal. Take a few deep breaths before you go in and remind yourself: you’ve got the skills, experience, and heart to do this job. They’ve invited you because they already see potential in you, so now it’s your chance to shine!