25 Head Teacher Interview Questions and Answers

Every school has at least one head teacher, who is responsible for the overall operation of the school. This includes creating and implementing the school’s curriculum, managing the staff, and ensuring the school meets government standards. Head teachers also work with parents and the community to improve the education of their students.

If you’re looking to become a head teacher, you’ll need to be able to answer common interview questions. In this guide, you’ll find sample questions and answers that will help you prepare for your interview.

1. Are you familiar with the curriculum for this state or country?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience with the curriculum for their school district. If you are applying for a teaching position in another state or country, it’s important to do your research on the local education system and any unique requirements they might have. You can use your answer to explain how you would adapt to these differences and ensure that students receive an effective education.

Example: “Yes, I am very familiar with the curriculum for this state or country. In my current role as Head Teacher, I have been responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive curriculum that meets the needs of all students. I have also worked closely with local school districts to ensure our curriculum is aligned with their standards. I understand the importance of having a rigorous, well-rounded curriculum that challenges students while providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the future. Furthermore, I am committed to staying up to date on any changes to the curriculum so that our students are receiving the best education possible.”

2. What are some of the most important qualities for a head teacher to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the qualities they’re looking for in a head teacher. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention some of the most important qualities that you possess and how those relate to your own experience as a head teacher.

Example: “As a head teacher, I believe the most important qualities to have are strong leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and a passion for teaching.

Leadership is essential in this role because it allows me to effectively manage my staff and set an example of excellence for them to follow. I am able to create a positive learning environment by setting clear expectations and providing support when needed. My experience as a head teacher has enabled me to develop strong problem-solving and decision-making skills that help me make informed decisions quickly and efficiently.

Communication is also key in this position. As a head teacher, I need to be able to communicate clearly with both students and staff members. This involves being able to listen carefully and provide feedback in a constructive manner. It’s also important to be able to explain complex concepts in simple terms so that everyone can understand.

Lastly, I bring a deep passion for teaching to this job. I truly enjoy helping students reach their full potential and watching them grow into confident learners. I strive to create engaging lessons that will motivate and inspire my students to learn. I also take great pride in creating a safe and supportive learning atmosphere where all students feel respected and valued.”

3. How would you deal with a situation where a parent is unhappy with their child’s grade?

As a head teacher, you may have to deal with parents who are unhappy about their child’s grade. This question helps the interviewer determine how you will handle this situation and if you can remain calm under pressure. Use examples from your experience where you were able to resolve conflict between students and parents.

Example: “I believe that communication is key when it comes to dealing with a situation like this. I would start by listening to the parent’s concerns and understanding their perspective. After that, I would explain my expectations for the student in terms of academic performance and what measures we can take to help them improve. Finally, I would provide resources such as tutoring or extra study time that could be used to help the student reach their goals.”

4. What is your management style?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your leadership style and how you would approach managing a team of teachers. Your management style is the way you make decisions, delegate tasks and communicate with others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe your management style in detail and provide examples of how you used that style to achieve success in previous roles.

Example: “My management style is collaborative and supportive. I believe in creating an environment of trust, respect, and open communication between myself and my staff. I strive to create a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility within the school community. My goal is to empower teachers and students to reach their full potential by providing them with the resources they need to succeed.

I also prioritize professional development for my staff and encourage them to continue learning and growing as educators. I value feedback from both my staff and students and use it to inform decisions that will benefit the entire school. Finally, I am committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all members of our school community.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to make a difficult decision.

When an interviewer asks you to provide an example of a time when you made a difficult decision, they are trying to learn more about how you make decisions and what your thought process is. This can help them understand if you have the ability to make important decisions on your own or if you need guidance from others.

Example: “I recently had to make a difficult decision while serving as Head Teacher at my previous school. We were facing budget cuts and I had to decide how best to allocate the limited resources we had available. After carefully considering all of our options, I decided that it was in the best interest of the students to reduce the number of extracurricular activities offered and instead focus on providing more support for core academic classes. This was not an easy decision to make as there were many passionate advocates for each activity, but ultimately I felt this was the right choice given the circumstances. My decision was well-received by the faculty and parents alike and allowed us to continue providing quality education to our students despite the financial constraints.”

6. If you had the opportunity to change anything about the way your school is currently run, what would it be?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your leadership skills and how you would implement change if necessary. Your answer should show that you are willing to make changes when they’re needed, but also that you understand what’s important about the current system.

Example: “If I had the opportunity to change anything about the way my current school is run, it would be to focus more on student-centered learning. I believe that when students are given the chance to take ownership of their education and explore topics in depth, they become more engaged in their studies and develop a deeper understanding of the material. To achieve this goal, I would implement more project-based learning opportunities, provide more hands-on activities, and create an environment where students can ask questions and receive feedback from teachers and peers. In addition, I would strive to ensure that all students have access to resources such as technology, books, and materials needed for successful learning. Finally, I would work with parents and the community to foster a culture of collaboration and support for our students.”

7. What would you do if you noticed a teacher was not following the school’s policies?

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your ability to enforce school policies and ensure that all teachers are following the same procedures. In your answer, explain how you would handle a situation like this in order to maintain consistency throughout the school.

Example: “If I noticed a teacher was not following the school’s policies, my first step would be to have an open and honest conversation with them. I believe in creating an environment of trust and respect, so it is important that I approach this situation from a place of understanding. I would explain why the policy exists and how it benefits the students, staff, and overall school community.

I would also listen to their perspective and take into account any extenuating circumstances or challenges they may be facing. If necessary, I would provide additional resources or support to help them meet the expectations outlined in the policy. Finally, if the issue persists, I would document the conversations we had and take appropriate disciplinary action as outlined by the school’s policies.”

8. How well do you handle stress?

Head teachers often have to make important decisions and solve problems quickly. Employers ask this question to see if you can handle stress well. In your answer, share a time when you had to make a tough decision or solve a problem quickly. Explain how you handled the situation and what steps you took to reduce stress.

Example: “I am an experienced Head Teacher and I have a proven track record of managing stress in high-pressure situations. I understand that being a Head Teacher can be stressful, but I have developed strategies to help me stay focused and remain calm under pressure. For example, I make sure to take regular breaks throughout the day to give myself time to relax and recharge. I also prioritize tasks so that I can focus on the most important ones first. Finally, I practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing and meditation which help me to stay grounded and centered when things get overwhelming.”

9. Do you have any experience working with students with special needs?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience working with students who require special attention. If you do, explain how you helped these students succeed in your previous role and what strategies you used.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with students with special needs. During my time as a Head Teacher, I developed an inclusive approach to teaching that ensured all students were given the same opportunities and resources regardless of their individual needs. I also worked closely with parents and other members of staff to create tailored learning plans for each student, ensuring they had access to the right support and guidance. My commitment to creating an environment where every student can succeed has been reflected in the positive feedback from both parents and teachers alike. Furthermore, I am always looking for new ways to ensure our students are receiving the best possible education, which includes finding innovative solutions to meet the needs of those with special requirements.”

10. When was the last time you updated your teaching skills?

Employers ask this question to make sure you are committed to your professional development. They want to know that you are always trying to improve as a teacher and leader. When answering, think of the last time you took a course or attended a conference related to teaching. You can also mention any books you have read recently.

Example: “I am constantly striving to stay up-to-date with the latest teaching techniques and strategies. In the past year, I have attended several professional development courses and workshops in order to further my knowledge of best practices for classroom instruction. These courses have focused on topics such as differentiated instruction, student engagement, and technology integration. I also regularly read educational journals and articles to keep abreast of new developments in the field. Finally, I frequently collaborate with colleagues to share ideas and learn from each other’s experiences.”

11. We want to improve our communication with parents. What would you do to accomplish this?

As a head teacher, you need to be able to communicate with parents. Parents are an important part of their child’s education and can provide valuable insight into how they’re performing in the classroom. A hiring manager may ask this question to see if you have any ideas for improving communication between teachers and parents. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to ensure that parents feel welcome at school and know how to get in touch with you or other members of the faculty.

Example: “I believe that effective communication with parents is essential to the success of any school. To ensure successful parent-teacher relationships, I would focus on creating an open dialogue between teachers and parents. This could be done through regular newsletters, emails, or even social media updates. I would also encourage teachers to reach out directly to parents when needed, either by phone or in person. Finally, I would create opportunities for parents to become involved in their child’s education, such as hosting events like parent-teacher conferences or open houses. By fostering a positive relationship between parents and teachers, we can ensure that our students are getting the best possible education.”

12. Describe your process for evaluating students.

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you use assessment data to inform your instruction. Use examples from your experience that show how you incorporate student feedback into your lesson planning process.

Example: “My process for evaluating students is based on a holistic approach that takes into account both academic and social-emotional growth. First, I assess the student’s academic performance by looking at their grades, test scores, and any other relevant data. Then, I take into consideration the student’s behavior in class, their attitude towards learning, and their level of engagement with the material. Finally, I look at how they interact with their peers and teachers, as well as their overall emotional wellbeing.

I believe it’s important to provide feedback to students in a way that encourages them to reflect on their progress and identify areas where they can improve. To do this, I use a combination of verbal and written feedback, such as one-on-one conversations, group discussions, and individualized goal setting. I also make sure to involve parents in the evaluation process whenever possible so that everyone involved has a clear understanding of the student’s strengths and weaknesses.”

13. What makes you stand out from other head teachers?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your unique qualities and how they can benefit their school. When answering, think of a specific skill or quality that you have that makes you stand out from other candidates. Try to choose something that is relevant to the job description.

Example: “I believe my experience and qualifications make me stand out from other head teachers. I have a Master’s degree in Education and over fifteen years of teaching and administrative experience, including five years as a Head Teacher. During this time, I have developed strong leadership skills and an excellent understanding of how to manage a school effectively.

In addition, I am passionate about creating a positive learning environment for students and staff alike. I strive to foster collaboration and communication between all stakeholders, while also ensuring that the curriculum is engaging and challenging. My commitment to student success has been demonstrated through successful initiatives such as introducing new technology into the classroom and providing additional support for struggling learners.”

14. Which teaching method do you prefer?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style. They want to know if you prefer a hands-on approach or an academic one, for example. When answering this question, try to be as specific as possible and explain why you prefer that method.

Example: “I believe that the most effective teaching method is one that takes into account the individual needs of each student. I prefer to use a variety of methods, such as direct instruction, inquiry-based learning, and problem-solving activities, in order to ensure that all students are engaged and able to learn at their own pace. I also believe in using technology to enhance the learning experience, which can be an invaluable tool for engaging students who may not respond well to traditional methods. Finally, I strive to create an environment where students feel safe to ask questions and take risks without fear of failure or judgement. This encourages them to think critically and develop their own ideas, which is essential for fostering creativity and innovation.”

15. What do you think is the most important thing a head teacher can do for their students?

This question is a great way to show your passion for education and how you can help students succeed. When answering this question, it’s important to focus on the positive aspects of being a head teacher and what you can do to make an impact in your students’ lives.

Example: “As a Head Teacher, I believe the most important thing I can do for my students is to create an environment where they feel safe and supported. This means providing them with a positive learning atmosphere that encourages collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. It also means creating a culture of respect in which all students are treated fairly and given equal opportunities to succeed. Finally, it means being available to listen to their concerns and provide guidance when needed. By doing these things, I believe I can help foster an environment where every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.”

16. How often do you hold teacher meetings?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your leadership style. As a head teacher, you should hold regular meetings with all of the teachers in your school. These meetings can help you stay up-to-date on what’s happening in each classroom and allow you to provide feedback or answer questions from your staff. In your response, explain how often you hold these meetings and what topics you typically discuss during them.

Example: “I believe that teacher meetings are an important part of the school day and I strive to hold them regularly. In my current role as Head Teacher, I have implemented a weekly meeting schedule for teachers where we discuss any issues or concerns they may have, review lesson plans, and plan upcoming events. These meetings also provide an opportunity for collaboration between staff members, which helps foster a positive learning environment.

Additionally, I am always open to having additional meetings if needed. If there is an issue that needs immediate attention, I will call for an emergency meeting so that it can be addressed in a timely manner. I understand how valuable teachers’ time is and do my best to ensure that their schedules are respected while still making sure that all necessary topics are discussed.”

17. There is a conflict between two students in class. How do you handle it?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your conflict resolution skills. This is an important skill for head teachers because they often have to resolve conflicts between students, parents and other staff members. In your answer, describe how you would handle the situation in a calm and professional manner.

Example: “When it comes to resolving conflicts between students, I believe in taking a proactive approach. First and foremost, I would listen to both sides of the story and try to understand each student’s perspective. Then, I would work with the students to come up with a mutually beneficial solution that meets their needs and addresses any underlying issues.

I also think it is important to involve parents and other stakeholders when possible. This can help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that all parties are working together towards a resolution. Finally, I would document the incident and follow-up with the students to make sure they are following through with the agreed upon solution.”

18. What strategies do you have for promoting student engagement in the classroom?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you plan lessons. Your answer should include a specific example of a strategy you used in the past that helped students stay focused during class.

Example: “I believe that student engagement is essential for a successful learning environment. To promote student engagement, I have several strategies in place.

Firstly, I create an atmosphere of respect and trust within the classroom. This allows students to feel comfortable expressing their ideas and opinions without fear of judgement or criticism. I also strive to make my lessons interactive and engaging by incorporating different activities such as group work, discussions, and hands-on projects. This helps keep students engaged and encourages them to think critically about the material being presented.

In addition, I use technology to help enhance the learning experience. By utilizing online resources and tools, I can provide students with more opportunities to explore topics further and engage with the material on a deeper level. Finally, I always ensure that I am available to answer questions and provide support when needed. This shows students that I value their input and am willing to take the time to listen to their concerns.”

19. How would you handle a situation where a teacher is not performing to the expected standards?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your management style and how you would handle a challenging situation. In your answer, try to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate with others.

Example: “If I were to encounter a situation where a teacher was not performing up to the expected standards, my first step would be to have an open and honest conversation with them. During this discussion, I would make sure to listen carefully to their perspective in order to understand why they are struggling and what challenges they may be facing.

Once I had a better understanding of the issue, I would work collaboratively with the teacher to develop a plan for improvement. This could include additional professional development opportunities, providing resources or support from other staff members, or setting clear expectations and goals for the teacher to strive towards. It is important that the plan is tailored to the individual’s needs so that it can be successful.

I believe that communication and collaboration are key when addressing performance issues. As Head Teacher, I would ensure that all teachers feel supported and empowered to reach their potential.”

20. How do you ensure that all teachers are following the same curriculum?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your leadership style and how you ensure that all teachers are following the same curriculum. Use examples from your experience to explain how you make sure everyone is on the same page when it comes to teaching students.

Example: “I believe that having a consistent curriculum is essential for the success of any school. To ensure that all teachers are following the same curriculum, I take a proactive approach to monitoring and evaluating their progress. First, I make sure that each teacher has access to the same materials and resources. This includes making sure they have the most up-to-date versions of textbooks, lesson plans, and other teaching aids.

Next, I regularly review the lesson plans of each teacher to make sure they’re staying on track with the established curriculum. If there are any discrepancies between what’s being taught in the classroom and what’s outlined in the curriculum, I work with the teachers to address them immediately. Finally, I also hold regular meetings with the faculty to discuss any changes or updates to the curriculum. By taking these steps, I can ensure that all teachers are following the same curriculum.”

21. Describe your approach to budgeting and resource allocation.

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your leadership skills and how you plan for the future. Use examples from past experiences to explain how you make decisions regarding school funding and spending.

Example: “My approach to budgeting and resource allocation is based on a few key principles. First, I believe in being fiscally responsible and making sure that every dollar spent is used wisely. I also prioritize the needs of my students and staff when allocating resources. This means that I will always look for ways to maximize our budget so that we can provide the best possible educational experience for everyone involved. Finally, I understand the importance of collaboration and communication when it comes to budgeting and resource allocation. I strive to work with stakeholders across the school district to ensure that everyone’s needs are met while staying within our budgetary constraints.”

22. What kind of professional development opportunities have you provided to teachers?

Professional development is an important part of being a head teacher. Employers ask this question to make sure you understand the importance of professional development and how it can help teachers improve their skills. Use your answer to explain what kind of professional development you have provided in the past and what steps you would take to provide similar opportunities for other teachers.

Example: “I am passionate about providing professional development opportunities to my teachers. I believe that when teachers are given the opportunity to grow and learn, it benefits not only them but their students as well.

In my current role as Head Teacher, I have implemented a variety of professional development initiatives. These include in-house training sessions on topics such as classroom management, curriculum design, and technology integration. I also provide access to online resources such as webinars, e-courses, and podcasts. Finally, I encourage my staff to attend external conferences and workshops related to their areas of interest.”

23. Do you think it’s important to reward students for good behavior?

This question can help the interviewer determine your thoughts on positive reinforcement. It’s important to show that you understand how rewarding students for good behavior can encourage them to continue acting in a positive way.

Example: “Absolutely! I believe that rewarding students for good behavior is an important part of any successful educational environment. Not only does it help to encourage positive behaviors, but it also helps to build relationships between teachers and students. In my experience, providing rewards for good behavior has been a great way to motivate students and create a more positive learning atmosphere.

I have implemented several reward systems in the past, such as awarding points for completing tasks or giving out small prizes for exemplary work. These types of incentives can be incredibly effective in helping to foster a sense of accomplishment and pride in the classroom. It’s also important to recognize when students are exhibiting appropriate behavior and give them verbal praise or other forms of recognition. This helps to reinforce the desired behaviors and encourages students to continue doing their best.”

24. How do you handle disciplinary issues with students?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your approach to handling conflict. Use examples from your experience to explain how you respond to students who are misbehaving and what methods you use to help them improve their behavior.

Example: “When it comes to disciplinary issues with students, I believe in taking a proactive approach. My goal is to create an environment of respect and mutual understanding between myself, the staff, and the students. To do this, I focus on positive reinforcement and setting clear expectations for behavior.

I also emphasize open communication and problem-solving skills when addressing any disciplinary issues that arise. This helps to ensure that all parties involved understand why certain behaviors are not acceptable and how they can be addressed in a constructive manner. In addition, I make sure to provide resources and support to both students and staff so that everyone feels comfortable coming forward with their concerns.”

25. Are there any initiatives or programs you would like to implement at this school?

This question can help the interviewer determine your leadership style and how you would contribute to the school’s culture. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific program or initiative that you have implemented in the past and its success.

Example: “Absolutely! I have a few ideas that I think would be beneficial to the school.

Firstly, I believe in creating an environment where students are encouraged to take risks and explore their interests. To do this, I plan on introducing a variety of extracurricular activities such as clubs, sports teams, and other enrichment programs. This will help foster a sense of community while also providing students with opportunities to develop new skills and discover their passions.

Secondly, I want to ensure that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed. To accomplish this, I plan on implementing initiatives such as tutoring programs, mentorship programs, and career exploration workshops. These programs will provide students with the support they need to reach their academic goals.

Lastly, I am passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion within the school. To achieve this, I plan on organizing events such as cultural celebrations, guest speakers from diverse backgrounds, and student-led discussions. By doing so, I hope to create a safe and welcoming space for everyone at the school.”