Private schools will often interview children after entrance exams to assess whether they are suitable for the school. The interview is just as important as the entrance exam so it’s important that you’re children are confident and ready to answer some questions. How to succeed in a school interview? Check out my top tips below.
1 The Interview.
The interview is simply a chance for the school to get to know your child and to assess whether the school is right for them. It is not set up to catch them out. The interviewer wants your child to want the school as much as the child wants the school to like them, so it is definitely a two-way process:
· When entering the interview room, smile.
· Introduce yourself by saying your name clearly.
· Make good eye contact and have a firm handshake- practice beforehand.
· First impressions count!
2 Who is in charge in the interview?
Your child is. Why? Because she can be asked numerous questions by the interviewer but if they don’t wish to answer, then there isn’t really a lot that can be done. Understanding that they are actually in control gives them a lot of confidence and a platform on which to thrive.
3 Be prepared.
Some things that are useful to know prior to the interview:
· who will be interviewing them?
· what is their name?
· what is their role at the school?
Find out as much as you can about the school by going to their website so that in the interview your child has information specific to that school. They can mention that they have been on their website which shows initiative and motivation.
4 What are your strengths?
In an interview, it’s good to focus on your strengths and what you are proud of. An interview is a lovely opportunity to celebrate oneself. The interviewer wants to learn all about you, so it’s an opportunity to sell yourself.
5 Take a chance
· Always have a go.
· No one word answers about anything.
If you are asked a question and don’t know the answer, just have a go even if it might be wrong. Share your thought process so they can see how you think. They will see how confident and courageous you are.
6 Know your subject/topic well.
If you are asked about a subject you like at school, answer with a full sentence. For example, “I like English because….”. this way, you can display your passion for the subject. Think about the subjects you like the most and what specific topics within them that most interest you.
7 What book are you reading?
Answering this question gives you the opportunity to be articulate and expressive about your chosen book.
· Discuss the style of writing or any ideas and themes you enjoyed.
· Be descriptive.
· Why did you choose this book?
· Who is the author?
· Did something you studied at school encourage you to choose this book?
· What do we know about the writer, would you recommend it to a friend and why?
8 Hobbies and interests.
These questions allow you to show energy, enthusiasm and show something of your character. Whatever you choose to discuss, create a verbal scene about what, where, when, why and how this game/event/discipline/class makes you feel. Be descriptive.
· Do you want to take this hobby further?
· How far?
· Show that you are motivated and keen.
9 Keep up with the news and current affairs.
Schools are interested to know if you have knowledge in local, national and international news. What’s going on around you. You don’t have to be a brilliant politician to talk about Brexit or a leading scientist to discuss Global warming but give the interviewer your personal view about an issue of concern such as the environment: plastics, fires in Brazil, seas getting warmer and so forth.
· Read the First News newspaper or The Week Junior to gain knowledge and stay up-to-date.
10 Be yourself 😊
It’s always difficult to be told ‘just be yourself’ in an unfamiliar environment but by being prepared, will create confidence within you. You will be relaxed and enjoy the interview much more. This is key.
Remember, you are unique and wonderful. Enjoy the interview…. you’ll be great!
Should you wish to know more or have any questions to help your child thrive, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on 07850 058708 or by email, hello@confidenceinkids.co.uk
