Interview Tips & CV Guidance
Learn how to write a strong teaching CV and prepare for interviews. Get expert tips, sample answers, and guidance to help secure your next teaching job.
CV & Interview Tips for Teaching Jobs
Your CV and interview performance play a crucial role in securing your ideal teaching position. At Reliant Education, we support educators with expert CV writing guidance, interview preparation, and lesson observation tips to help you stand out.
- Craft a CV that highlights your strengths
- Prepare for common teaching interview questions
- Excel in lesson observations
How to Write a Strong Teaching CV
A well-structured and professional teaching CV is key to securing interviews. Follow these essential CV writing tips to create a document that highlights your experience, skills, and suitability for the role.
✅ Personal Statement
A short paragraph summarising your experience, teaching philosophy, and what you bring to the role.
✅ Teaching Experience
List your most recent roles first, with key responsibilities and achievements.
✅ Education & Qualifications
Include your QTS status, PGCE, or other relevant qualifications.
✅ Key Skills
Highlight your classroom management, lesson planning, behaviour management, and SEN support experience.
✅ Professional Development
Mention CPD courses, safeguarding training, and additional teaching certifications.
✅ References
Provide at least two school-based references.
How to Excel in a Lesson Observation
- Plan a Clear, Engaging Lesson – Keep it simple, structured, and interactive.
- Set Clear Learning Objectives – Let students know what they’ll learn and why it matters.
- Use a Range of Teaching Techniques – Incorporate questioning, group work, and differentiation.
- Show Strong Behaviour Management – Maintain control while keeping the class engaged and motivated.
- Reflect & Adapt – If something isn’t working, show flexibility and adjust your approach.
Common Teaching Interview Questions & How to Answer Them
Teaching interviews assess your experience, teaching style, and ability to handle classroom challenges. Here are some of the most common questions and how to answer them effectively.
“Tell us about yourself and your teaching experience.”❓
Tip: Keep it concise – focus on your teaching journey, strengths, and enthusiasm for the role.
“How do you manage behaviour in the classroom?”❓
Tip: Discuss proactive strategies, such as positive reinforcement and clear expectations.
“How do you differentiate lessons for students with different learning needs?”❓
Tip: Mention using scaffolding, mixed-ability grouping, and adaptive resources.
“Tell us about a successful lesson you taught. What made it effective?”❓
Tip: Highlight engagement strategies, student outcomes, and reflection on improvements.
“Why do you want to work at this school?”❓
Tip: Research the school’s ethos, values, and teaching approach and connect them to your goals.
📌 Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure strong, detailed answers.
What to Bring to a Teaching Interview
- Updated CV & Cover Letter
- ID & DBS Certificate
- Lesson Plan & Teaching Resources (if required)
- Portfolio with Student Work Samples (if applicable)
- List of Questions for the Interviewer
Testimonials from Successful Candidates
Hear from educators who used our interview guidance and secured their ideal teaching jobs:
Register & Let Us Help You Find the Perfect Role
Need expert support to refine your CV, prepare for interviews, or ace a lesson observation? Reliant Education is here to guide you every step of the way.
