If you are aspiring to become a Primary School Teacher in the UK, preparing thoroughly for your interview is crucial. With over 25 years of career coaching experience, I, Jerry Frempong, have helped hundreds of candidates succeed. In this comprehensive guide, I will walk you through 30 common interview questions, provide detailed answers, and explain how to approach each question using strategies like the STAR model. We will also cover job descriptions, salary expectations, do’s and don’ts, and general interview coaching tips.
Primary School Teacher Role, Responsibilities, and Salary
A Primary School Teacher plays a vital role in shaping young minds. They are responsible for creating a safe, engaging, and supportive learning environment, planning lessons in line with the National Curriculum, assessing pupil progress, and maintaining communication with parents and colleagues. Teachers often handle a variety of subjects including English, Maths, Science, and Arts while fostering personal and social development in children.
In the UK, the salary for a Primary School Teacher varies based on location and experience. For a newly qualified teacher (NQT), the starting salary is typically around £28,000 per year, rising to £40,000+ for experienced teachers, with additional allowances for leadership positions or schools in challenging areas.
Preparing for your interview with clear, confident responses is essential. Embedding interview training in your preparation can dramatically improve your chances of success.
Opening Interview Questions and Answers
1. Tell us about yourself.
Answer: Focus on your teaching journey, relevant qualifications, and experience. For example: “I have a PGCE in Primary Education, with three years of classroom experience. I’m passionate about creating inclusive learning environments and using creative methods to engage children.”
Importance: This question sets the first impression. Emphasize your enthusiasm, skills, and alignment with the school’s values.
2. Why do you want to work at this school?
Answer: Research the school and mention specifics. Example: “I admire your focus on STEM integration and outdoor learning. I want to contribute to this innovative teaching approach.”
Importance: Shows genuine interest and that you have done your homework, highlighting commitment.
3. What are your strengths as a teacher?
Answer: Highlight strengths with examples. “I excel at differentiated instruction, ensuring each child learns at their pace, and I’m strong in classroom management.”
4. What are your weaknesses?
Answer: Choose a real weakness with improvement. “I sometimes over-plan lessons, but I’m learning to be more flexible and adaptive in class.”
Competency-Based Questions and Answers
5. How do you handle a disruptive student?
Answer using STAR: Situation – disruptive child; Task – maintain learning environment; Action – calm discussion and clear rules; Result – student engages positively.
6. Give an example of when you adapted a lesson for a pupil with additional needs.
Answer: Use STAR to explain differentiation strategies, resources used, and outcomes.
7. How do you assess student progress?
Answer: Explain formative and summative assessments, feedback strategies, and monitoring tools.
8. Describe a time you worked as part of a team.
Answer: Focus on collaboration with colleagues, sharing resources, and supporting joint projects.
9. How do you motivate children who are struggling?
Answer: Use positive reinforcement, small achievable targets, and one-to-one support.
10. Can you explain a successful lesson you taught?
Answer: Outline objectives, methods, pupil engagement, and measurable outcomes.
Using the STAR Model Effectively
The STAR model (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is critical for competency questions. It allows interviewers to see structured, evidence-based answers. For instance, when asked, “Tell me about a time you handled conflict in the classroom,” a STAR answer clearly demonstrates the scenario, what you did, and the positive outcome.
Example:
Situation: Two pupils argued during group work.
Task: Resolve conflict and maintain learning progress.
Action: I facilitated a discussion, encouraged empathy, and set collaborative goals.
Result: Pupils reconciled, the lesson continued smoothly, and group dynamics improved.
Behavioural and Situational Questions
11. How do you handle parental concerns?
Answer: Listen actively, remain calm, provide evidence of pupil progress, and maintain transparency.
12. How do you incorporate technology in the classroom?
Answer: Describe digital tools, interactive whiteboards, and e-learning strategies to enhance learning.
13. How do you handle high-pressure situations?
Answer: Remain calm, prioritise tasks, and seek support when necessary.
14. Tell me about a time you improved a pupil’s performance.
Answer: Use STAR to outline assessment, interventions, and measurable results.
15. How do you support pupils’ social and emotional development?
Answer: Describe activities, mentoring, and pastoral support initiatives.
Curriculum and Subject Knowledge Questions
16. How do you teach Maths to engage different learning styles?
Answer: Hands-on activities, games, visual aids, and group tasks.
17. How do you teach Literacy creatively?
Answer: Storytelling, role play, phonics games, and interactive reading.
18. What strategies do you use for Science lessons?
Answer: Practical experiments, demonstrations, and inquiry-based learning.
19. How do you integrate Art and Music into the curriculum?
Answer: Cross-curricular projects, creative expression, and performance opportunities.
20. How do you assess and support SEN pupils?
Answer: Individual Education Plans (IEPs), collaboration with specialists, and differentiated teaching.
Classroom Management and Organisation Questions
21. How do you maintain discipline in class?
Answer: Clear rules, consistent routines, positive reinforcement, and restorative approaches.
22. How do you plan and structure lessons?
Answer: SMART objectives, adaptable plans, and mixed teaching strategies.
23. Describe a time when a lesson didn’t go as planned.
Answer: Be honest, explain the challenge, and what you adapted to achieve success.
24. How do you manage workload and planning?
Answer: Use effective time management, prioritisation, and collaboration.
25. How do you ensure inclusivity in your classroom?
Answer: Adapt lessons, respect diversity, and encourage equal participation.
Ending Questions and Answers
26. Do you have any questions for us?
Answer: Ask insightful questions about school vision, CPD opportunities, or classroom resources.
27. How would you contribute to our school community?
Answer: Mention extracurricular activities, clubs, volunteering, or school events.
28. What do you enjoy most about teaching?
Answer: Highlight passion for children’s development, learning, and creativity.
29. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Answer: Show ambition aligned with school values, such as curriculum leadership or SEN specialism.
30. Why should we hire you?
Answer: Summarise qualifications, experience, enthusiasm, and dedication to students’ growth.
Do’s and Don’ts in a Primary School Teacher Interview
Do’s:
Research the school thoroughly.
Prepare STAR examples for behavioural questions.
Show passion, empathy, and professionalism.
Dress appropriately and be punctual.
Ask meaningful questions about the school and role.
Don’ts:
Avoid negative comments about previous employers.
Don’t exaggerate your experience.
Avoid being unprepared or vague in answers.
Don’t interrupt the panel or speak over others.
Avoid technical jargon that might confuse non-specialists.
Final Interview Coaching Tips
Remember, confidence and preparation are key. Practise answering questions out loud, tailor examples to your own experience, and use the STAR model wherever possible. Mock interviews with an interview coach can provide valuable feedback. Online resources for interview coaching online allow flexible preparation.
Investing in your preparation through job interview preparation or interview coaching can make all the difference between uncertainty and a successful interview outcome.
Teaching is a rewarding and impactful career. By preparing thoughtfully, demonstrating your skills confidently, and showcasing your genuine passion for education, you are setting yourself up for success. For personalised support, you can book an appointment for interview training today and work with a professional coach to refine your answers, boost confidence, and secure your dream Primary School Teacher role.
