Securing a teacher interview is an exciting step — but it can also feel daunting if you’re not sure what to expect. At Dunbar Education, we support teachers every week with interview preparation, and the same questions come up time and again.
Here are the top 10 teacher interview questions UK schools are likely to ask — and how to answer them with confidence.
1. Why do you want to work at this school?
Schools want to know you’ve done your research and that you’re genuinely interested in them.
How to answer:
- Mention something specific from the school website or Ofsted report
- Show that your values align with theirs (e.g. inclusivity, high standards, community focus)
- Be enthusiastic about contributing to their culture and goals
2. How do you manage behaviour in the classroom?
Behaviour management is one of the most important aspects of teaching.
How to answer:
- Talk about your classroom routines and clear expectations
- Mention positive reinforcement as well as strategies for low-level disruption
- Show awareness of the school’s behaviour policy and how you’d work within it
3. How do you differentiate your teaching for different abilities?
Schools want to see that you can meet the needs of all learners.
How to answer:
- Give an example of how you’ve adapted resources or tasks
- Mention support for SEND pupils and stretch for higher ability pupils
- Show how you use assessment to guide differentiation
4. How do you assess progress?
Assessment is key to pupil outcomes.
How to answer:
- Talk about formative and summative assessment
- Mention marking, feedback, and how you adjust teaching as a result
- Give an example from your placement or classroom experience
5. How do you ensure safeguarding in your classroom?
Every teacher interview will include a safeguarding question.
How to answer:
- State clearly that safeguarding is your top priority
- Refer to following school policies and statutory guidance (KCSIE)
- Show awareness of the process for reporting concerns
6. How do you engage pupils who are reluctant to learn?
Schools want to know you can motivate learners.
How to answer:
- Talk about making learning relevant and engaging
- Give an example of using creative approaches to spark interest
- Mention the importance of building positive relationships with pupils
7. Tell us about a successful lesson you’ve taught
This is your chance to shine.
How to answer:
- Choose an example with a clear structure: introduction, activity, assessment
- Highlight the outcome (what pupils achieved)
- Reflect briefly on what you would improve next time
8. How do you work as part of a team?
Schools run on collaboration.
How to answer:
- Talk about working with colleagues, teaching assistants, or mentors
- Show that you’re open to feedback and contribute positively to staff culture
- Mention experience of sharing resources or co-planning lessons
9. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Schools want to know you’re committed and ambitious.
How to answer:
- Show you want to grow professionally (e.g. subject lead, pastoral responsibility)
- Emphasise that you want to develop within a supportive school
- Avoid suggesting you’ll be moving on quickly
10. Do you have any questions for us?
Always say yes. This shows you’re engaged and thinking carefully.
Good questions to ask:
- What support does the school offer for ECTs?
- What are the school’s current priorities?
- How is staff wellbeing supported here?
How Dunbar Education Helps
We don’t just put you forward for jobs — we prepare you to succeed at interview. Our consultants regularly run mock interviews, provide school-specific insights, and share tailored feedback so you walk in with confidence.
Your Next Step
If you’ve got a teacher interview coming up, preparation is everything. With Dunbar Education by your side, you’ll know what to expect and how to impress.
📩 Contact us today and let us help you secure your next teaching role: https://dunbareducation.com/contact
