The independent school interview. A daunting task for any child, let alone one who is nervous about meeting new people or talking about themselves in front of a panel. The independent school interview can be especially nerve-wracking if you’re not sure what to expect and how to prepare. In this blog post, we’ll lay out some tips that will help your child feel confident going into the interview and walk away feeling like they nailed it!
Schools Are Not Looking for the ‘Perfect’ Child, So Don’t Worry!
- Remember that independent schools are not looking for a perfect child. They want to know who your child is and what makes them unique. What they’ll be evaluating in the interview process is how well you, as a parent, match up with their school’s mission statement and values – everything from education philosophy to teaching style to aftercare options.
Do Your Research Before The Independent School Interview
- Be sure to research the independent school you’re applying for. You don’t want your child to be surprised by any questions they ask you in the interview, so make sure that both of you are well prepared and know what kind of information they’ll be looking for when asking about extracurricular activities, after school activities, and family life.
- If you’re unsure about what to research and where, to research about the school, our Independent School Interview Course covers all of this and more.
Private School Interview Questions
- Remember that independent school interviews can be stressful for your child. That’s why it’s important to help them prepare in advance by running through some mock questions together so they’re less nervous on the big day. Ask them what their favourite subject is or who their best friend is at school – encourage them to talk about anything that makes them feel comfortable.
- Use our list of interview questions to help your child get used to answering some of the popular questions asked at the interview.
How Long Do Independent School Interview Take?
Independent school interviews typically last between 15 minutes and an hour, depending on the independent school’s preference as well as how many families they have to interview that day. The interview process consists of a brief introduction from both you and your child. Then they will often be taken to a classroom or office to be asked a few questions on their own. In some interviews, parents stay with their children, as they are also interviewed.
- Most independent schools will also ask your child to show off their best subject or perform a short piece of work that they’re proud of, such as reading aloud from an essay they wrote for class, playing a musical instrument, reciting some poetry and more! This is one final opportunity for them to shine.
- Lastly, independent schools will often ask your child to answer a few questions about themselves – this is an excellent time to let them talk about their passions and interests outside of school! Don’t forget to encourage your child throughout the day by reminding them that they’re amazing just as they are, and independent schools are looking for the best fit!
- Let’s face it: independent school interviews can be stressful and scary. That’s why we’ve given you these tips to help your child feel prepared before going into their interview, as well as what they should expect on the big day. If your child could benefit from a course on how to prepare for the independent school interview, what to say and how to give the best first impression, register them for the Independent School Interview.