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School leadership interviews – presentations tips

February 14, 2009 //  by  Admin

Our recent internal candidates for assistant headteacher had to deliver ten minutes on ‘practical strategies to raise achievement’; they were asked to make the presentation relevant to our school.

Here’s what we we're looking for (and in fact we had a mark sheet to score each candidate on each of these areas).

• presentation skills
• content – innovation and sticking to brief

So on presenting skills:

Use of the interactive whiteboard is good but not essential, likewise with PowerPoint. Yes it’s a skill we think senior leaders should have but most important was clarity and engagement, after all assistant heads still teach a good few periods each week.

We allowed for nerves but were looking for candidates who knew how to deal with their nerves. For instance I know I always wear a jacket with pockets so occasionally I can thrust my (shaking) hands in them! I also like to have a gimmick – same strategy as I use when dealing with a challenging class.

• Be confident; smile, remember to say ‘good morning’ – especially if you’re in a new school
• Practice speaking out loud, I still do this for assemblies. It cuts down on some of the waffling that you do if you’re thinking on your feet. Your brain will remember more of it and that will help with the delivery.

Obviously this depends on the title but raising achievement is likely to come up and teaching and learning are a safe bet within this.

Practical means different things to different people but the key for me is SMART.

One, unsuccessful, candidate talked about starting an intervention programme for Year 9 aimed at supporting those who data suggested would under-achieve in their GCSEs.

That was it – not really SMART enough.

It only needed a bit of tweaking. For instance - starting GCSE intervention early:

• Meet with parents to get them on board
• Share data with every body involved – student, parents, all teaching staff
• Meet with subject leaders to devise a diagnostic tool and individualized support programme of individual subject support for these students
• Devise a way to measure success/failure early enough in Year 10 to encourage students or to show the need to turn up the intervention.

If you’re going for a senior leadership job then you need to show that you can think strategically. If you’re an internal candidate it’s important not to simply represent the school’s own development plan and add in things you’d do differently. One of our candidates did that and I felt like the senior team was being told off for not getting the job done!

It’s not really rocket science. A ten minute presentation should be 10 minutes long.

It’s fine to check if questions and answers will be separate. Also, check how many people will be included if you’re intending to give out hand outs and think about the time it takes to give out hand-outs if you hand them out during the presentation.

It’s important to stick to time; you could have brilliant ideas to share but if you end up saying them in the 12 th minute of a ten minute presentation then they won’t be counted – we were actually giving a 2-minute warning and then stopping candidates mid-sentence.

I think one useful way of structuring an ideas packed presentation is to give one idea in full detail (say about 3 minutes) and then have another 3 or 4 ideas where you just spend 1 minute on each and then have another 5-8 ideas in outline which you pack in to the time you have left. This shows that you can do strategic and in-depth but then goes on to show that you have plenty of ideas.

Practicing out loud and having somebody else time you also helps in this regard.

The successful candidate had ideas that were ready to go, presented in a way that made me think ‘I want that idea NOW, I’m going to steal it …. oh no, wait a better idea is to give you the job and then you can run it’.

If you’ve got some other presentations that you’ve been asked to do I’d be happy to post what my ideal response would be.

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What to Expect When Interviewing For a Headship

Posted on 7 November 2019 by Check-a-Salary in Career

Securing a position as a headteacher is a big ambition for many passionate teachers, but what does it really take to land the top job at an inspiring school? It takes passion, dedication, experience and the willingness to go that extra mile to change the lives of pupils. But it also takes confidence, flexibility, patience and great communication skills.

When interviewing for a headship role, it’s vital that candidates really understand what the job requires, and what a board of governors are likely to be looking for as they assess applicants. To make sure you’re in the best possible position, take a look at our tips on what to expect from the interview process.

The Interview

If your CV ticks all the boxes and you’ve been selected as a potential candidate, then you’re already well on your way to taking the headteacher role. At this point, the interviewing team will call applicants they believe to be suitable to arrange an interview. The interview itself is not unlike your typical job interview, but you should be aware that there may well be several governors on the interview panel.

The interview process will depend largely on the preferences of these governors, and of course, the school that you have chosen. Take your time when preparing for the interview. Do as much research as you can into the school, and think about what your strategies would be if you were selected for the role. Take a stroll around the grounds, talk to local people and immerse yourself in the ethos of the institution.

When it comes to the interview itself, there are some general steps you can take to ensure you excel. Firstly, approach it with confidence. By doing so, you’ll be able to make the best possible impression from the moment you meet your interviewers. Establish a rapport from the beginning, and you’ll soon ease your nerves and start to build a relationship with the governors.

The Presentation

Quite often headship candidates are asked to prepare a short presentation. This could be on any topic, but it’ll likely be centred around your ideas and strategies for improving the school or achieving specific theoretical targets. It might sound like a daunting task, but the key here is not to panic.

Even the best candidates approach interview presentations with a degree of trepidation, but it’s worth bearing in mind that the governors are unlikely to be focusing too much on the content of the presentation. Instead, they will be watching and thinking about whether the candidate in front of them is the type of candidate that could confidently speak to a school full of students, to get a message across whilst never losing their attention. If you can do that, then you can definitely excel in an interview presentation.

Don’t be surprised if your interview process includes a task. The role of headteacher is a rich and varied one, and there are seemingly endless responsibilities that fall under the position’s remit. For this reason, interviews regularly include one or several tasks designed to give the board a clearer idea as to the true capabilities of their candidates.

Typical tasks that could be included in the process range from budget planning and analysis exercises to group discussions and role-play scenarios. You may even be expected to lead an assembly or a sample lesson, whilst being assessed by your interviewing team. Sometimes the process also encompasses meet and greets with pupils and parents, which provide a valuable opportunity for you to learn more about the school.

If you’re looking for a new role and have a headship in your sights, it pays to be prepared. Get to know the interview process and ensure that you’re fully equipped to deal with any question or task your interviewers might throw at you. Approach the process with confidence, and use it to learn as much as you can about what your new role entails. Before long you’ll have landed the role you’ve always dreamt about.

Looking for more interview tips to ensure that you dazzle the interviewing panel? Take a look at this advice on preparing for school interviews .

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20 Common Head Teacher Interview Questions and Answers

Common Head Teacher interview questions, how to answer them, and sample answers from a certified career coach.

Landing an interview for a head teacher position is an exciting opportunity—but it can also be nerve-wracking. You want to show the hiring manager that you’re the right person for the job, but how do you make sure you stand out?

The best way to prepare is by researching and practicing your answers to common head teacher interview questions. That way, when the interviewer asks “What challenges have you faced as a head teacher?” or “How would you handle a difficult parent meeting?” you’ll have thoughtful, well-crafted responses ready. Read on for tips on how to answer these head teacher interview questions (and more).

• What is your approach to leading a team of teachers and staff?
• How do you ensure that all students are receiving the best possible education in your school?
• Describe your experience with developing and implementing curriculum standards.
• Explain how you would handle a situation where a teacher was not meeting expectations.
• What strategies do you use to foster collaboration between teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders?
• How do you stay informed about new educational trends and developments?
• Are you familiar with the Common Core State Standards Initiative?
• What methods do you use to evaluate student performance and progress?
• How do you create an environment of trust and respect among faculty members?
• What strategies do you use to motivate teachers and staff to reach their goals?
• How do you handle difficult conversations with parents or guardians?
• Describe your experience working with special needs students.
• What steps do you take to ensure that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed?
• How do you address issues of bullying or discrimination within the school?
• What strategies do you use to promote diversity and inclusion in the classroom?
• How do you manage conflicts between different departments or teams within the school?
• What initiatives have you implemented to improve communication between teachers and parents?
• How do you measure success when it comes to student achievement?
• What strategies do you use to ensure that all students feel safe and supported in the school environment?
• Describe your experience with budgeting for a school district.

1. What is your approach to leading a team of teachers and staff?

Head teachers are expected to lead with vision and integrity, inspiring their colleagues to give their best and create an environment of excellence. Interviewers want to know your approach to leading a team so they can get an idea of how you would handle the challenges of the role. They will be looking for someone who is organized and able to effectively manage a team. They want to know that you can motivate and inspire your colleagues and that you have a plan for maintaining a high standard of teaching in the school.

How to Answer:

Start by talking about your leadership style and how you approach leading a team. Explain that you are organized, efficient, and able to delegate tasks effectively. Talk about how you prioritize communication with your team and how you strive to create an environment of collaboration, trust, and respect. You can also discuss any strategies you have for motivating teachers and staff, such as providing incentives or offering professional development opportunities. Finally, emphasize your commitment to maintaining a high standard of teaching in the school and explain how you would go about achieving this goal.

Example: “I approach leading a team of teachers and staff with the same commitment to excellence that I bring to my own teaching. I prioritize effective communication and strive to create an environment of collaboration, trust, and respect. I believe in providing incentives for good performance and offering professional development opportunities to help my colleagues reach their full potential. Additionally, I am committed to maintaining a high standard of teaching in the school by setting clear expectations, monitoring progress, and intervening when necessary.”

2. How do you ensure that all students are receiving the best possible education in your school?

The head teacher is responsible for ensuring that the school is providing the best possible education to all of its students. This question is designed to understand how the candidate will ensure the highest quality of education is being provided and how they will measure the success of their efforts. The candidate should be able to demonstrate their knowledge of curriculum, teaching methods, and assessment procedures. They should also be able to discuss how they would use data to measure the success of their efforts.

In your answer, you should discuss how you will use data to measure the success of teachers and students. You should also discuss how you would ensure that all teachers have access to resources and support they need to be successful in their roles. Additionally, you should discuss your approach to leading a team, such as providing feedback on performance, setting goals for improvement, and creating an environment where everyone is able to collaborate and learn from each other. Finally, you should discuss how you would evaluate the effectiveness of your efforts and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Example: “My primary goal as a head teacher is to ensure that all students are receiving the best possible education. To do this, I would use data to measure the success of teachers and students in order to identify areas for improvement. Additionally, I would make sure that all teachers have access to resources and support they need to be successful in their roles. I would also lead by example, providing feedback on performance, setting goals for improvement, and creating an environment where everyone is able to collaborate and learn from each other. Finally, I would evaluate the effectiveness of my efforts regularly and adjust my strategy accordingly.”

3. Describe your experience with developing and implementing curriculum standards.

The head teacher is responsible for setting and maintaining the curriculum standards for their school. They must understand the local and state regulations for curriculum, be aware of the latest advancements in educational theory, and be able to communicate the school’s curriculum to teachers and parents. By asking this question, the interviewer is trying to gauge the candidate’s experience in this area.

To answer this question effectively, you should provide specific examples of how you have developed and implemented curriculum standards. Talk about any courses or programs that you’ve created and the process you took to develop them. You can also discuss any initiatives you’ve taken to ensure the school is following local and state regulations for curriculum. Finally, explain how you communicate your school’s curriculum to teachers and parents.

Example: “As a head teacher, I have experience developing and implementing curriculum standards for elementary school classes. I have worked closely with teachers to create lesson plans that meet local and state guidelines while also being engaging for the students. I have also created courses for special needs students that focus on their individual learning styles. Additionally, I make sure all stakeholders are aware of our curriculum by holding regular meetings with teachers and parents. During these sessions I explain our curriculum in detail and answer any questions they may have.”

4. Explain how you would handle a situation where a teacher was not meeting expectations.

Good head teachers have strong interpersonal skills and can handle difficult conversations. They are able to motivate and support their staff while also holding them accountable to the standards expected of them. This question helps the interviewer assess your ability to handle challenging situations in a professional and constructive manner.

Start by talking about how you would approach the situation. Explain that you believe in open communication and would take the time to sit down with the teacher and discuss their performance. Outline your plan for addressing any areas of concern, including setting clear expectations, providing additional resources or support if needed, and offering feedback on progress. Finally, emphasize that while you expect high standards from all teachers, you also understand the importance of giving them the opportunity to improve before taking further disciplinary action.

Example: “If a teacher was not meeting expectations, I would first approach them in a non-confrontational way. I believe that open and honest communication is the best way to address any issues. I would sit down with them and discuss their performance in detail – outlining any areas of concern and providing feedback on how they can improve. I would also make sure to provide additional resources or support if needed, so that they have all the tools necessary to succeed. Ultimately, my goal would be to help the teacher reach their full potential, while also upholding high standards for our school.”

5. What strategies do you use to foster collaboration between teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders?

The head teacher is the leader of the school and is responsible for setting the tone and direction of the entire organization. The interviewer wants to make sure that you have the skills to create a positive, productive environment where teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders can collaborate and work together to achieve the school’s goals.

To answer this question, you should focus on the strategies that you have used in the past to foster collaboration. For example, you could talk about how you’ve encouraged communication between stakeholders by having regular meetings or setting up an online platform for discussion and feedback. You can also discuss how you’ve incentivized collaboration through rewards and recognition programs. Finally, you should emphasize your commitment to creating an open, collaborative environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing their ideas.

Example: “I believe that collaboration between teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders is key to the success of any school. To foster this collaboration, I have implemented several strategies. For example, I have regular meetings with all stakeholders where we discuss our goals and share ideas. Additionally, I have created an online platform for everyone to post questions, provide feedback, and brainstorm solutions together. I also reward collaborative behavior through recognition programs, such as peer-to-peer awards. By providing these opportunities for collaboration, I am committed to creating a positive environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing their ideas.”

6. How do you stay informed about new educational trends and developments?

The field of education is always changing with new trends, approaches, and research. It’s important for a head teacher to stay on top of these changes as it helps them make the best decisions for their students. They need to know how to access reliable information sources, such as industry journals, conferences, and online resources, and be able to make sense of the new information they find. Interviewers will want to know that you’re up-to-date on the latest developments in the field and understand how to apply it to the classroom.

You can start by talking about the resources you use to stay informed. For example, do you read industry journals or attend conferences? Do you have a network of colleagues in the field that you consult with? What online resources do you turn to for information?

You should also mention how you apply this new knowledge to your teaching. Talk about how you’ve implemented changes based on the latest research and trends. This shows the interviewer that you understand how to use new information to improve your teaching and make meaningful changes for your students.

Example: “I stay informed about new educational trends and developments by regularly reading industry journals, attending conferences, and consulting with colleagues in the field. I also make sure to keep up-to-date with online resources such as Edutopia, Education Week, and the American Educational Research Association’s website. Additionally, I’m always looking for ways to incorporate new technologies into my classroom, such as using virtual reality simulations to teach science concepts or incorporating coding into math lessons. I believe that staying on top of the latest trends and research is essential for any head teacher in order to provide students with the best education possible.”

7. Are you familiar with the Common Core State Standards Initiative?

The Common Core State Standards Initiative is a set of academic standards for K-12 education in the United States. It is important for someone in a leadership role in education to be familiar with these standards, so this question is an important one for a hiring manager to ask a potential head teacher. The interviewer wants to make sure that the candidate is familiar with the standards, so they can ensure that the school is providing students with a quality education.

The best way to answer this question is to be honest about your level of familiarity with the Common Core State Standards Initiative. If you are familiar, explain what you know and how you have used or implemented them in your previous teaching roles. If you are not familiar, explain that you would like to learn more about them. You can also mention any other standards or initiatives that you have experience with and have knowledge of.

Example: “I am familiar with the Common Core State Standards Initiative and have used them in my past teaching roles. I have a thorough understanding of the standards and how they should be implemented in the classroom. Additionally, I have experience working with other initiatives such as the International Baccalaureate program to ensure that students are being provided with an education that meets their needs.”

8. What methods do you use to evaluate student performance and progress?

The head teacher is the leader of the educational staff and is responsible for the academic and social success of their students. This requires the head teacher to have a system in place to assess student performance and progress. An interviewer wants to know what strategies and methods the head teacher uses to evaluate students, and also how they use the data they collect to inform their teaching and help their students reach their potential.

The best way to answer this question is to provide an overview of the strategies and methods you use to evaluate student performance and progress. Examples could include: using formative and summative assessments, tracking individual student data over time, analyzing standardized test scores, conducting regular parent-teacher conferences, implementing differentiated instruction based on student needs, and providing students with feedback on their work. You should also explain how you use the data collected to inform your teaching decisions and help your students reach their goals.

Example: “I use a variety of methods to evaluate student performance and progress. These include formative and summative assessments, tracking individual student data over time, analyzing standardized test scores, conducting regular parent-teacher conferences, implementing differentiated instruction based on student needs, and providing feedback on student work. I use this data to inform my teaching decisions and help my students reach their goals. I also use this data to inform staff development and plan professional development opportunities for my teachers. I believe in using data to inform my decisions and ensure that my students are getting the best possible education.”

9. How do you create an environment of trust and respect among faculty members?

Head teachers are responsible for creating a culture of collaboration and cooperation among faculty members. They need to ensure that everyone is respected and that their ideas are taken seriously. This question allows interviewers to get a sense of how you would handle such a situation, as well as how you view the importance of teamwork and collaboration in a school setting.

When answering this question, it’s important to emphasize the importance of creating a safe and respectful environment for everyone. Talk about how you would foster an open dialogue among faculty members, as well as encourage them to share their ideas and opinions. You can also discuss how you would ensure that all faculty members are given equal attention and respect, and how you would work to create an atmosphere of trust and collaboration. Finally, be sure to mention any initiatives or programs you might have implemented in the past to promote teamwork and collaboration.

Example: “My approach to creating an environment of trust and respect among faculty members is to foster an open dialogue and encourage everyone to share their ideas and opinions. I believe that all faculty members should be given equal attention and respect, and that their ideas should be taken seriously. I also believe in the importance of creating an atmosphere of trust and collaboration. To that end, I’ve implemented initiatives such as weekly staff meetings and monthly team-building activities. I also make a point to recognize individual accomplishments and celebrate successes. In my experience, these initiatives have gone a long way towards creating a culture of trust and respect among faculty members.”

10. What strategies do you use to motivate teachers and staff to reach their goals?

Leadership is a key part of a head teacher’s role, and you’ll need to show that you’re capable of inspiring your staff to work together and keep morale high. This question is designed to assess how well you understand how to motivate and reward your staff, regardless of the size of your team. It also gives you an opportunity to show how you can create a positive working environment.

As a head teacher, it’s important to be able to motivate and inspire your teachers and staff to reach their goals. My approach is threefold: first, I provide clear expectations and objectives that are measurable and achievable; second, I create an environment of collaboration and support by encouraging open communication and providing resources where needed; finally, I recognize and reward those who demonstrate excellence in their work. For example, I have implemented rewards systems for teachers and staff who go above and beyond or achieve certain milestones. This has been effective in motivating my team to strive for excellence.

Example: “In my role as a head teacher, I use a combination of strategies to motivate my teachers and staff to reach their goals. I set clear expectations and objectives that are achievable and measurable, and I create an environment of support and collaboration by encouraging open communication and providing resources where needed. I also recognize and reward those who demonstrate excellence in their work, such as through rewards systems for teachers and staff who go above and beyond or achieve certain milestones. This has been effective in motivating my team to strive for excellence and has helped to create a positive working environment.”

11. How do you handle difficult conversations with parents or guardians?

Any role that involves working with children and their families will present many opportunities for difficult conversations. Head teachers must be able to navigate these conversations with tact, diplomacy and professionalism. They need to be able to think on their feet and come up with solutions that are beneficial to both parties. This question allows the interviewer to get a better understanding of how you handle such conversations, and whether you have the necessary skills to effectively manage them.

Start by talking about the strategies you use to prepare for difficult conversations. For example, you may take time to research the issue beforehand or practice what you are going to say in order to ensure that your message is clear and concise. You can then talk about how you approach the conversation itself, such as using a calm yet firm tone of voice and showing empathy towards the other person’s point of view. Finally, be sure to mention any techniques you have used to resolve issues amicably, such as compromise or negotiation.

Example: “When I need to have a difficult conversation with a parent or guardian, I always take the time to prepare beforehand. I research the issue at hand and practice what I’m going to say. When the conversation takes place, I remain calm and professional and try to show empathy towards the other person’s point of view. I also focus on finding a solution that is beneficial to both parties, such as compromise or negotiation. This approach has helped me to successfully navigate many difficult conversations with parents and guardians in the past.”

12. Describe your experience working with special needs students.

Working with special needs students can be a challenge for even experienced educators. The interviewer wants to know that you have the patience, knowledge, and creativity to work with students who have educational, social, and emotional challenges. They want to know that you’re comfortable working with these students and advocating for their needs.

Talk about your experience working with special needs students. If you have a lot of experience, discuss specific strategies that you’ve used to help these students succeed. If you don’t have much experience in this area, describe how you would approach it and the resources you would use to learn more. You can also talk about any additional training or certifications you have related to special education. Finally, emphasize that you understand the importance of advocating for special needs students and creating an inclusive learning environment.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with special needs students. In my role as a head teacher, I have worked with students on the autism spectrum, with learning disabilities, and with physical disabilities. I have developed individualized learning plans for each of these students that take into account their unique needs and abilities. I also collaborate with parents, teachers, and specialists to ensure that each student is receiving the best possible education. I am passionate about creating an inclusive environment where all students feel supported and respected.”

13. What steps do you take to ensure that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed?

This question is meant to gauge your commitment to equity in education. Interviewers want to know that you are aware of the various obstacles that can prevent some students from succeeding, such as lack of access to technology or resources, and are willing to take steps to address these issues. Your answer should demonstrate that you understand the importance of creating an equitable learning environment, and that you have the strategies to ensure that all students have the tools they need to succeed.

You should be prepared to provide examples of how you have addressed issues of equity in the past. Talk about any initiatives or programs that you have implemented to ensure all students had access to resources and technology, such as providing laptops for students who don’t have their own, creating a library with books that are relevant to different cultures, or setting up mentorship programs for at-risk students. Additionally, discuss any strategies you use to identify which students need extra help and what steps you take to support them.

Example: “I believe that all students should have the same access to resources, regardless of their background. To ensure that all students have the tools they need to succeed, I work to create an equitable learning environment by providing extra resources and support to those who need it. For example, I have implemented a laptop loan program and a library of books that reflect the diverse cultures in our school. I also ensure that all students have access to the same technology and materials, and I have created mentorship programs to provide additional support to at-risk students. I believe that these strategies have helped create an environment where all students can reach their full potential.”

14. How do you address issues of bullying or discrimination within the school?

It’s a Head Teacher’s responsibility to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of all the students in their charge. This means they must be able to address conflicts and incidents of bullying or discrimination quickly, fairly, and effectively. It’s important that they have a clear policy in place and the ability to implement it. The interviewer is looking to understand how you would handle such situations, as well as how you might prevent them from occurring in the first place.

Start by discussing the policy you have in place to address bullying and discrimination, such as a code of conduct or zero-tolerance policy. Talk about how it is communicated to students, staff, and parents and any preventative measures that are taken. Then discuss your approach to dealing with incidents when they arise, such as providing counseling for those involved and taking disciplinary action if necessary. Finally, explain how you would measure success in addressing these issues and ensure that everyone in the school community feels safe and respected.

Example: “At our school, we have a zero-tolerance policy for bullying and discrimination. This policy is communicated to students, staff, and parents at the start of each school year and is reinforced throughout the year. We also take proactive steps to prevent such incidents from occurring, such as providing anti-bullying assemblies and workshops for our students. When incidents do arise, we take a collaborative approach to resolving the situation. This includes providing counseling for those involved, taking disciplinary action if necessary, and monitoring the situation closely. We measure our success by tracking the number of incidents reported and the number of students who feel safe in our school community. We also use feedback from our students, staff, and parents to ensure that everyone is comfortable and respected.”

15. What strategies do you use to promote diversity and inclusion in the classroom?

Diversity is an important part of any educational environment, and as a head teacher, it’s your responsibility to ensure that all students feel accepted and respected in the classroom. The interviewer wants to know that you have a plan for creating a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students, regardless of their background or identity. They also want to know that you have the ability to recognize and address potential issues that could arise due to a lack of diversity and inclusion.

Begin your answer by mentioning the specific initiatives you’ve implemented in the past. These could include creating a student-led diversity and inclusion committee, providing professional development opportunities for teachers on how to promote an inclusive classroom environment, or implementing a system of restorative justice practices that emphasize collaboration instead of punishment. Additionally, discuss any strategies you have for encouraging students to explore different cultures and perspectives, such as bringing in guest speakers from diverse backgrounds or incorporating multicultural literature into the curriculum. Finally, be sure to mention any resources you use to stay up-to-date on best practices for promoting diversity and inclusion.

Example: “I believe that it is essential to create an environment of respect and acceptance in the classroom, and I’ve implemented a number of strategies to promote diversity and inclusion. I have created a student-led diversity and inclusion committee to ensure that all voices are heard, and I’ve provided professional development opportunities for teachers on how to create an inclusive classroom environment. Additionally, I have implemented a system of restorative justice practices that emphasize collaboration and understanding rather than punishment. I also strive to introduce students to different cultures and perspectives through guest speakers and multicultural literature. To stay up-to-date on best practices for promoting diversity and inclusion, I use resources such as the National Education Association’s Diversity Toolkit and the Teaching Tolerance website.”

16. How do you manage conflicts between different departments or teams within the school?

The role of a head teacher is to ensure that all elements within the school are working together and functioning in harmony. This means being able to handle conflicts between different departments or teams, as well as being able to motivate and inspire staff members to work together in order to achieve the best results. Knowing how to handle these situations and how to resolve them is essential for a successful head teacher.

The best way to answer this question is to provide examples of times when you have successfully managed conflicts between different departments or teams. Talk about the strategies you used to resolve the conflict, such as listening to both sides and finding a compromise that works for everyone. You should also emphasize your ability to remain impartial and unbiased in order to ensure a fair resolution. Additionally, discuss any methods you use to prevent these types of conflicts from occurring in the future.

Example: “When conflicts arise between different departments or teams, I focus on listening to both sides and understanding their underlying concerns. I then work to find a compromise that everyone can agree on. I also strive to remain impartial and unbiased in order to ensure a fair resolution. In addition, I take steps to prevent similar conflicts from occurring in the future by encouraging open communication and collaboration between all departments. I also emphasize the importance of respect and understanding when it comes to working with other teams. By doing this, I’m able to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working together towards a common goal.”

17. What initiatives have you implemented to improve communication between teachers and parents?

Good communication between teachers and parents is essential for the success of any educational institution. By asking this question, interviewers want to know how you handle communication between staff, parents, and other stakeholders, and how you ensure that everyone is kept up to date with the latest information. They also want to hear about any initiatives you’ve implemented to promote better communication between teachers and parents.

When answering this question, you should focus on any initiatives or strategies you’ve implemented to improve communication between teachers and parents. You can talk about how you use technology such as email updates, text messages, or online portals to keep everyone informed. You could also mention how you hold regular meetings with parents to discuss their child’s progress and answer any questions they may have. Finally, emphasize your commitment to open and honest communication and how it helps build strong relationships between the school and its families.

Example: “I’ve implemented several initiatives to improve communication between teachers and parents. I regularly hold meetings with parents to discuss their child’s progress and answer any questions they may have. I also use technology such as email and text messages to keep them up to date with any school news or upcoming events. Additionally, I created an online portal where parents can access their child’s grades, assignments, and other important information. I strongly believe that open and honest communication is key to building successful relationships between the school and its families.”

18. How do you measure success when it comes to student achievement?

The headteacher has a unique role in the school—they are responsible for the overall success of the students, and they need to ensure that the school is running smoothly and achieving the goals it has set for itself. As a potential hire, you need to show that you have a clear idea of how to measure success with regards to student performance and how you would lead the school in achieving those goals.

Start by describing the metrics that you would use to measure student achievement. This could include things like test scores, graduation rates, college acceptance rates, and other indicators of academic success. You should also talk about how you would use these metrics to track progress over time and identify areas where improvement is needed. Finally, discuss how you would work with faculty and staff to create plans for improving student performance in those areas.

Example: “I believe that student achievement can be measured in a variety of ways, including test scores, graduation rates, and college acceptance rates. I would use these metrics to track progress over time, and to identify areas where improvement is needed. I would then work with faculty and staff to develop plans for improving student performance in those areas. I would also look for other indicators of success, such as student engagement and satisfaction, as well as teacher and staff satisfaction. This would help me ensure that my students are not only achieving academically, but are also engaged, supported, and happy in their school environment.”

19. What strategies do you use to ensure that all students feel safe and supported in the school environment?

The school environment is a crucial factor in a student’s success. It’s important for a head teacher to create an environment that encourages learning, collaboration, and respect. This question allows the interviewer to understand the strategies a potential head teacher uses to create an inclusive and safe atmosphere for all students.

To answer this question, you should discuss the strategies that you have implemented in the past to ensure a safe and supportive school environment. Examples of strategies could include creating an anti-bullying policy, implementing restorative justice practices, providing student counseling services, fostering positive relationships between staff and students, and holding regular meetings with staff to discuss any issues or concerns. Additionally, you can also talk about how you involve parents and guardians in the process of creating a supportive learning environment.

Example: “I believe in creating a safe and supportive learning environment that allows students to thrive. To do this, I have implemented a variety of strategies, including creating an anti-bullying policy, providing student counseling services, and fostering positive relationships between staff and students. Additionally, I hold regular meetings with staff to discuss any issues or concerns, and I also involve parents and guardians in the process of creating a supportive learning environment. By following these strategies, I believe that I can create an environment that is conducive to learning and growth for all students.”

20. Describe your experience with budgeting for a school district.

Budgeting is an essential part of running a school district. From allocating funds for textbooks and supplies to deciding how much to spend on after-school programs and extracurriculars, the head teacher is tasked with making sure the district makes the most of its resources. This question gives the interviewer a chance to see if you have the skills necessary to manage the district’s funds responsibly and make sure its students get the best education possible.

Talk about your experience with budgeting for a school district. Give details on the size of the district, the amount of money you were responsible for managing, and how you allocated funds to different areas. Talk about any challenges you faced while budgeting and how you overcame them. If you have experience working with local or state governments to secure additional funding, be sure to mention that as well.

Example: “In my previous role as head teacher of a large school district, I was responsible for managing a budget of over $1 million. I worked with the school board to secure additional funds from the local and state governments, and I made sure that all the funds were allocated to the areas that most needed them. I was also responsible for overseeing the purchase of textbooks and supplies, as well as ensuring that the district had enough money to fund after-school programs and extracurriculars. I faced some challenges when it came to budgeting, but I was able to come up with creative solutions that allowed us to maximize our resources and ensure that all of our students had access to the best education possible.”

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Special Education and Inclusive Learning

Recruitment: 100 SLT/Headteacher Interview Questions.

100 questions you may be asked in a senior leadership interview.

These are purely a bank of questions you might face in interviews for leadership positions in schools and colleges. There are no answers I’m afraid you have to prepare answers, sell yourself and describe what makes you an excellent candidate. Be prepared to answer questions on all areas of the role as well as your personal qualities. I suggest you find an appropriate interview partner to practice these questions. I have included links to websites or resources you may find useful for additional information. You may also like to use them if you are about to start the headteacher or deputy headteacher recruitment process for your organisation. Good luck!

Update: Interview Questions from my recent assistant headteacher interview.

• Tell us about a time when a project has not been succesful.
• How do you manage staff conflict ?
• Describe your leadership strengths.
• How would you ensure all learners understand how to keep themselves safe?

All of these were followed up by additional questions about my answer. These expanded on details and delved into my experience as an assistant headteacher.

Interview Questions Linked to The school

• From what you have seen or know, what are your views of this school and why have you applied to be its headteacher ?
• What issues did you identify from the school’s latest Ofsted report?
• What would you do in your first 100 days ?
• Who is the first person you would like to speak to on your first day?
• What did you notice about the atmosphere the first time you visited the school?
• “Why do you want to be our Headteacher?”

School Leadership (SLT) Role s

• Describe your leadership style in three words (or 30 seconds)
• How do you see the headteacher’s role in relation to the governing body? ( Guidance on good governance makes direct reference to this).
• Where do you see yourself, careerwise, in 3, 5 and 10 years time?
• How can you support your staff from day to day?
• How would you balance your workload with your wellbeing ?
• How do you ensure staff wellbeing is/becomes/stays a priority?
• Clearly, this is an important step in your career path – how have you tried to prepare yourself for this step?
• What aspects of further professional development do you feel you are likely to pursue in order to carry out your role as headteacher? What would you hope would be provided?
• What do you see as the difference between management and leadership ? Which do you consider to be a greater strength for you?
• How do you use your school improvement plan to benefit the school?
• How would you create it?
• Who would you include in the writing of it?
• How do you use your school improvement plan to benefit the students? How would you share it?
• What style of management do you prefer to work for and how would you describe your style?
• Describe the characteristics of a successful leader. Which of these qualities do you possess?
• What can your staff expect of you?
• What opportunity have you had to play some part in the overall management of the school through budgetary issues? How would you manage the process of making decisions within a tight budget?
• What does effective budget management look like?
• Give an example of the management of change. How would you deal sensitively with resistance?
• What are the key features of an effective school? How do you see the role of SMT and middle managers in achieving this?
• How would you develop greater links with partner schools and engage other external agencies, eg social services, district council, police? Why?
• Describe something that has gone really well this term. Why was it successful?
• How would you go about changing entrenched opinions ?
• How would you promote the school’s reputation nationally, locally and internationally? Is this important to you?
• Please indicate your position on motivating and leading staff when driving change or development.
• What would you anticipate being the core challenges to your leadership in the first 6 months in this post?

Relationships with colleagues and pupils

• Can you tell us more about what strategies would you use to motivate and support staff?
• The following is a scenario a headteacher may have to deal with.
• How would you handle a complaint made against a valued member of staff by a valued parent-governor, if the teacher was accused of hitting a child? What would you do if the allegation proved to be true?
• If there was a case where you felt there was a conflict between two colleagues? How would you go about encouraging a better working relationship?
• If a colleague were to come to you for advice in handling a difficult class or just a difficult group or individual how would you support them?
• How would you go about establishing good relations with staff already at the school?
• What do you understand by inclusion ?
• How does inclusion affect the students in the school ?
• How do you manage conflict? Example?
• If I asked a pupil after you had been here for half a term, to describe his or her headteacher what would he or she say?
• How do you ensure that equal opportunities are not just a buzzword?
• How would you deal with disruptive pupil behaviour and who would you involve?
• What qualities and achievements would you like to see a pupil have when he/she left this school ?
• How will you recruit and retain staff and maintain teacher morale?
• How do you build a team ?

Relationships with the wider school community

• How would you first establish communications with the parents of this school?
• What would you write in your first letter to parents/carers?
• In a case where there appeared to be over expectation on the part of parents and/or under expectation on the part of a teacher, how would you handle this as a headteacher and how might you advise a teacher where this had become a problem?
• How would you encourage and develop the idea of parents as co-educators to participate in their child’s education?
• Can you tell us about the ways in which you have helped encourage parents to participate?
• How would you engage parents that are reluctant to take part in their child’s education?
• If you became aware that there appeared to be a problem at home – perhaps the child became anxious about going home at the end of the day – how would you handle this?
• What kind of role do you think an active PTFA should play?
• How would you promote this school in the local community?
• How would you inspire governors to take an active part in school life?
• Is there a need for the school to participate in social networking ?
• How would you deal with an incident of racist language?
• How would you enhance the reputation of the school?

Teaching and Learning

• In this school, how would you ensure all members of staff feel involved in curriculum development?
• What is the place of Assessment for learning and how do you use this in practice?
• How would you use data to maximise attainment?
• What data would you use to celebrate success?
• What is your understanding of the ‘hidden curriculum’ and what place does it have in planning at any level?
• How would you make use of the flexibility now available in the 14-19 curriculum?
• How would you monitor the curriculum to ensure all pupils are receiving a broad, balanced and relevant curriculum? How would you use and disseminate your information?
• What does effective SEN provision look like ?
• How do you ensure that the needs of individual pupils are met ?
• How would you identify gifted and talented pupils and how would you meet that pupil’s needs?
• Tell me three features you would expect to see in a classroom where quality teaching and learning was taking place?
• What do you see as key strengths and key challenges of personalised learning?
• In your experience, what tends to stop lessons from being good?
• What makes a good lesson?
• How would you use the freeing up of the Key Stage 3 curriculum in order to develop a more effective learning process?
• What are the key points of an effective assessment for learning process?
• How do you think digital technologies, not just computers, can impact on learning?
• How should pupil and school targets be set?
• How, as headteacher, will you know that pupils are making good progress and reaching appropriately high standards?
• How do you know the quality of teaching in the school?
• How will you raise teachers’ expectations of what children can achieve?
• What are your views about an appropriate post sixteen curricula? How will you translate them into practice to maximise take up in the sixth form?

Leading Culture, Behaviour and Attitudes

• A student hits a member of staff. How do you respond?
• How would you allocate resources to ensure the behaviour of all students reflected school values?
• When do you think it is appropriate to physically intervene in a situation involving young people?
• What makes a school “safe and caring”?
• What po licies are important to support a safe school environment?
• What are the staff’s responsibilities in protecting children?
• How would you support staff to react appropriately to the student’s needs?
• When is it appropriate to exclude a child?
• What values does an effective behaviour policy rely on?
• Whose responsibility is behaviour support in your school?

Headteacher/Assistant Headteacher Personal Skills and Resources

• What strategies do you employ to help you cope with stress ?
• Do you have, or have you reached, any important goals in your life, outside your working life?
• What areas do you still need to develop professionally ?
• What qualities would you bring to the post?
• What connections would you bring to the school and how would these benefit the students?
• Why should you be appointed to this post?
• Can you tell us about a time you demonstrated resiliance?
• What frustrates you?

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