Tips for Australian Educators about Nailing Your Permanent Teaching Interview. Whether you’re an early career teacher or a seasoned educator making the next move, these tips will help you approach your interview with confidence.
Understand What the Panel Is Looking For
In most Australian schools, interview panels want to see evidence of your:
- Curriculum knowledge – especially your understanding of the Australian Curriculum and state frameworks.
- Ability to differentiate for diverse learners.
- Commitment to wellbeing and inclusion.
- Collaboration and communication skills within a team context.
- Contribution to the wider school community.
Tip: Review the school’s strategic plan, website, and social media pages. Look for clues about their priorities (e.g., literacy focus, wellbeing programs, Indigenous perspectives) — and prepare to speak directly to them.
Prepare STAR Examples
Panels love specific, structured answers. Use the STAR method:
- Situation: Set the context
- Task: Explain your role
- Action: Describe what you did
- Result: Share the outcome or reflection
Example:
“In my Year 4 class, I noticed reading engagement was low (Situation). I introduced book clubs to promote choice (Task and Action). Within a term, student borrowing doubled, and comprehension scores improved (Result).”
Having 4–5 strong STAR examples ready (for topics like behaviour management, differentiation, parent engagement, or teamwork) will make your answers shine.
Know the Current Priorities in Education
Be prepared to reference current trends such as:
- The Science of Reading and evidence-based literacy instruction
- Inclusive education and supporting students with additional needs
- Trauma-informed practices
- Digital pedagogy and technology integration
- Indigenous perspectives in the curriculum
Even a short reference like “I’ve been incorporating explicit phonics instruction aligned with the Science of Reading research” shows awareness and professional growth.
Reflect on Your Professional Identity
Interviewers want to know who you are as a teacher. Think about:
- What are your core values in education?
- What kind of classroom culture do you create?
- How do you continue developing professionally?
Try to express passion without being cliché. Instead of “I just love teaching,” say something like:
“I’m passionate about helping students see themselves as capable learners by giving them voice and choice.”
Expect Common Questions
Here are a few you can almost guarantee:
- “How do you differentiate for diverse learners?”
- “How do you manage challenging behaviour?”
- “How do you use data to inform your teaching?”
- “How do you contribute to a positive school culture?”
Practice answering these aloud — not memorising, but getting comfortable with your examples and phrasing.
End on a Strong Note
When asked if you have any questions, avoid asking about pay or leave entitlements. Instead, try:
- “How does the school support ongoing professional learning?”
- “What are some of the priorities for this learning community next year?”
It shows genuine interest in being part of the school’s growth.
After the Interview
Send a brief, professional follow-up email thanking the panel for the opportunity. Reiterate your enthusiasm and reflect on one element of the interview discussion that resonated with you.
Final Thoughts
A successful interview isn’t about perfection — it’s about authenticity, preparation, and reflection. Schools are looking for educators who align with their values, care deeply about student growth, and continually learn. Walk in knowing your story, your strengths, and your “why” — and you’ll leave a lasting impression.
