ABSTRACT

Interviews for teaching jobs generally involve a tour of the school, possibly some food or a drink and questioning by a panel, usually comprising the head teacher, a deputy, head of department or year and at least one governor. Interviewers have a moral and legal duty to avoid unfair discrimination on the grounds of disability, race, ethnic background, religion, marital status, political preferences, sexual orientation, age and gender. While it is important to be prepared for an interview in terms of physical appearance, knowledge of the job and of the school, there is something to be said for maintaining a balance. Interview questions should be based on the person specification for the job, rather than the private life of the individual. The Internet is a valuable resource when researching schools and towns prior to interviews. Attending an interview with a pessimistic attitude is sure to produce the very outcome teachers are drawing towards them.