PGCE Interview Tips

Preparing for a PGCE course interview but not sure what to expect? We’re here to assist with a helpful handful of tips to ace the interview! Firstly, it’s important to note that PGCE interview days can vary between universities in terms of structure and format, so there are a few different things you may need to be prepared for. You’ll (hopefully) be told ahead of time what to expect. The core of the day will likely be a traditional interview, but it may also feature a presentation and even a couple of small tests to assess your knowledge of maths and English. 

PGCE Interview Tips

Read up on the news

You may be asked to discuss a current education issue in your interview, so make sure you’re aware of the big topics in the education sector. There are several websites dedicated to education news, as well as relevant sections on popular newspaper websites which are just a Google search away for you to look at for research.

Prepare some examples

In the world of interviews, questions like ‘give us an example of a time you’ve had to deal with a such and such a situation’ are always popular. Think of some times on work experience when you’ve solved a problem or dealt with a particular issue, then memorise them as examples for your interview.

Show your enthusiasm

Show how keen you are to get on the course. Being enthusiastic and full of energy is important in the world of teaching, and your interviewer will be looking for signs that you’re passionate about becoming a teacher.

Express your interest

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Not only will it show that you have a real interest in the course and the profession, but it will also indicate that you’ve thought carefully about the interview and prepared some things you’d like to discuss.

PGCE Interview Test Tips

You may well be asked to complete tests on subjects like Maths and English when you arrive (which will probably require you to achieve a certain pass mark). These tests will most likely vary depending on the type of PGCE you are applying for, but you should be given an idea of what to expect in advance of your interview day (giving you time to prepare).

If you’re applying for a PGCE in Primary Education, for instance, you’ll probably have to complete a basic Maths test and a writing exercise (such as a description of a teacher who inspired you or an imaginary letter to the parent of a child). Make sure you keep an eye out things like grammar, punctuation and spelling in the latter!

PGCE Interview Presentation Tips

Some interview days will also require you to do a presentation. This may be something you’re asked to do in front of your interviewer or even other candidates, and the topic will most likely be something along the lines of ‘discuss your current teaching experience’ or  ‘describe a lesson you’ve witnessed that you thought was particularly effective’.

Remember, although the content of your presentation will be important, your assessors will also want to see how you carry yourself when speaking to a group of people – this means you should aim to be as enthusiastic and engaging as possible.

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