With the number of applicants to independent schools rising, many schools use interviews to help narrow down the list of candidates. These can seem intimidating, but they’re mostly just a chance for the school to get to know potential students and see if they’re a good fit. With a bit of preparation, you should be fine!
Here are our top tips for how to prepare for an 11 or 13+ interview.
Beforehand
The key to ensure that you’re not surprised in an interview is to be as prepared as possible for it. Research the school- what are their values; what extra-curricular activities do they offer; how do they teach? If you know this you will be able to explain why you are a good fit for the school, and why you want to go there. If the school has an excellent music department, remember to tell them if you play an instrument! This will hopefully set you apart from other students.
You should also make sure to read the news and know what’s going on in current affairs. Some schools will give interviewees a piece of writing that they will be expected to discuss in the interview. Don’t just read passively- think about what you’re reading and come up with your own opinions on it- this will display your understanding and intelligence.
The aim of the interview is to get to know you, so it is important that you know your own achievements and interests so that you can talk about them! Some schools may ask you to bring in a piece of work or a portfolio, which they may focus on in the interview. You could include any prizes you have won, photographs, or a piece of work you are proud of. It may be useful to bring something like this in even if the school hasn’t asked for it, as it gives you something to focus on in the interview!
Some common questions are:
To make sure you are comfortable in the interview, practise your answers to as many questions as you can think of. Be careful not to over-rehearse though- only practise what you will include in your answer rather than how exactly you will say it. That being said, try not to use slang or sloppy language in your answers.
As well as questions about the school and yourself, the interview may include vaguer questions, such as ‘what is your favourite book?’ or a brain teaser. These questions are meant to test how you cope under pressure.
Schools such as Eton and St Pauls will also give their interviewees numeracy or literacy problems to make sure that their exam results are not a fluke. Practising questions like this can help you to feel more comfortable with them. However, if there are words or instructions that you don’t understand at the time- don’t be afraid to ask your interviewer. They are looking at how you learn as well as what you know!
During
This will give you time to calm your nerves before the interview. Above all, it is important not to be late, as this doesn’t make a good impression.
When you first enter the room, smile and shake the interviewer’s hand. Wait until you are invited to sit to do so.
Sit up straight- good posture will make a good impression on your interviewer. Make eye contact- this will make you appear confident. Make sure that you smile and appear open, feel free to use your hands when you’re talking as this makes you appear more relaxed.
The dress code is normally your current school uniform, however be sure to check with the school.
If you are having a group interview, make sure that you speak up, but don’t talk over other students. It is important to show that you want to listen to what other students and the teacher wants to say. If there is a shyer student, try and bring them into the discussion, as this shows that you are inclusive and considerate.
If you tend to get nervous, breathing deeply will help to calm you down and ensure you don’t talk too quickly or panic.
Avoid short answers- this is an opportunity for you to talk about yourself and your achievements so don’t waste it!
Smile and shake your interviewers hand once again. Make sure to say thank you and goodbye- politeness is very important!
Here are some more great tips for interview preparation.
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