25 PE Teacher Interview Questions and Answers

Public school teachers typically work with students from kindergarten through twelfth grade. They may teach a variety of subjects, such as math, science, English, and social studies. However, the most common teaching position is for a teacher who specializes in a particular subject, such as physics, chemistry, or biology.

If you’re a certified public school teacher and you’re looking for a job, you may need to go to a job interview. One way to prepare for this important meeting is to learn how to answer interview questions for a teacher before talking with an interviewer.

Employers look for certified public school teachers who are patient, reliable, and have a deep understanding of the subjects they teach. You’ll also need physical strength and stamina, as well as knowledge of the best ways to manage a classroom. A teacher interview is your chance to show that you’ve polished these skills to a shine. To help you get ready, we’ve listed interview questions and answers that will help you figure out what you want to say during an interview.

1. Are you certified to teach physical education?

This question is a basic background check to ensure you are qualified for the position. If you’re not certified, explain what steps you’ve taken to become certified and when you expect to be ready to teach.

Example: “Yes, I am certified to teach physical education. I have been teaching PE for the past five years and have obtained my certification from a reputable institution. During this time, I have gained extensive experience in developing and delivering engaging lessons that meet the needs of all students. I also have an up-to-date knowledge of current trends in physical education and am able to apply them to my teaching practice.

I believe that physical education is an essential part of any student’s development and strive to create a safe and enjoyable learning environment for all my pupils. I am passionate about providing quality instruction and making sure each student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. My ability to build strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues makes me an ideal candidate for this position.”

2. What are some of the most important qualities that a PE teacher should have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the necessary skills and abilities to be successful in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your strongest qualities that relate to teaching physical education.

Example: “A PE teacher should have a few key qualities that make them an effective educator. First and foremost, they must be passionate about physical education and its importance in the overall development of students. They should also possess strong communication skills to effectively communicate with their students and colleagues. Furthermore, it is important for a PE teacher to be organized and able to plan lessons that are engaging and age-appropriate. Finally, having a good understanding of health and safety protocols is essential to ensure the wellbeing of all participants.

I believe I am well-suited for this position as I possess all of these qualities. As a former competitive athlete, I understand the value of physical activity and how it can help shape young minds. I am highly organized and have experience planning activities that are both fun and educational. I am also very knowledgeable when it comes to health and safety protocols and always strive to create a safe environment for my students. With my enthusiasm and dedication to teaching, I am confident that I will be an asset to your team.”

3. How do you plan your physical education classes to make sure that students are engaged and having fun?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you plan lessons. You can answer this question by describing a specific example of how you planned a lesson that was fun for students while still achieving the goals of the class.

Example: “When planning my physical education classes, I always strive to ensure that students are engaged and having fun. My approach is to create a dynamic learning environment where each student can develop their skills in an enjoyable way. To do this, I like to use a variety of activities that challenge the students while also keeping them interested. For example, I will often incorporate team-building exercises into my lessons to help foster collaboration and camaraderie among the students. I also make sure to include activities that focus on different areas such as agility, strength, and endurance. This helps keep the class interesting and ensures that all students have something they can work towards. Finally, I like to provide feedback throughout the lesson so that students can track their progress and stay motivated. By creating an engaging and positive atmosphere, I believe that students can reach their full potential.”

4. What is your experience with leading after-school programs or camps?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your experience with managing a team of students outside the regular school day. They want to know if you have any leadership skills that can help you succeed in their role as a PE teacher. In your answer, share what types of programs or camps you’ve led and how they helped develop your leadership abilities.

Example: “I have extensive experience leading after-school programs and camps. I was the lead PE Teacher for a summer camp in my previous job, where I designed and implemented activities that were both fun and educational. My goal was to create an environment that encouraged physical activity while also teaching important lessons about teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy habits.

In addition, I have been involved with several after-school programs throughout my career. I have helped organize field trips, team building exercises, and other activities that promote physical fitness and social development. I am passionate about helping children develop their skills and interests through physical education, and I strive to make every program I’m involved in as engaging and rewarding as possible.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to discipline a student and the steps you took to resolve the situation.

Discipline is an important part of teaching, and employers may ask this question to learn more about your experience with it. When answering this question, you can describe a specific situation in which you had to discipline a student and the steps you took to resolve the issue.

Example: “I had a situation in my previous position where I had to discipline a student for not following the rules of the class. The student was being disruptive and not paying attention during instruction time.

To resolve the situation, I first addressed the student directly and explained why their behavior was unacceptable. I then gave them an opportunity to explain their side of the story. After listening to their explanation, I reminded them of the expectations and consequences that were outlined at the beginning of the semester. Finally, I provided additional guidance on how they could improve their behavior going forward.”

6. If a student is struggling with a specific physical activity, how do you help them improve and gain confidence?

This question can help an interviewer understand how you support students who may be struggling with a physical activity. Use your answer to highlight your ability to work one-on-one with students and develop strategies that help them improve their skills.

Example: “When a student is struggling with a specific physical activity, I believe it’s important to take the time to understand why they are having difficulty. It could be due to lack of knowledge or experience, so I would start by providing them with instruction and guidance on how to perform the activity correctly. If needed, I can also break down complex movements into smaller parts for easier understanding.

I also think it’s important to provide positive reinforcement when students make progress. This helps build their confidence and encourages them to keep trying. Finally, I like to give students opportunities to practice in different ways, such as through games or drills. This allows them to gain more experience and become comfortable with the activity.”

7. What would you do if a parent contacted you about their child’s behavior during PE class?

Parents often have questions about their child’s behavior in school, and the interviewer wants to know how you would respond to a parent who has concerns. Use your answer to show that you value communication with parents and are willing to work with them to resolve any issues.

Example: “If a parent contacted me about their child’s behavior during PE class, I would take the time to listen to their concerns and understand what is happening. I believe it is important to have an open dialogue with parents in order to ensure that all parties are on the same page when it comes to expectations for student behavior.

I would then work with the student to come up with a plan of action to address any issues they may be having. This could include setting clear boundaries, providing positive reinforcement for good behavior, and creating individualized goals for the student to strive for. It is also important to involve the student in this process so that they can take ownership of their actions and learn from them.”

8. How well do you communicate with other teachers and staff members to coordinate lessons and activities?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your interpersonal skills and how you collaborate with others. Use examples from past experiences where you worked well with other teachers or staff members to plan lessons, activities or events.

Example: “I believe that effective communication is essential to successful teaching. I have excellent interpersonal skills and am comfortable working with other teachers and staff members to coordinate lessons and activities.

In my current position, I work closely with the school’s administration team to ensure that all of our PE classes are running smoothly. I also collaborate with other teachers in the department to create engaging lesson plans and activities for students. I’m always looking for ways to improve our existing curriculum and find new ways to engage students.

Furthermore, I understand the importance of staying up-to-date on any changes or updates related to physical education. As such, I make sure to attend regular meetings with other faculty members so we can discuss any issues or concerns that may arise. This helps us stay informed and ensures that everyone is on the same page when it comes to teaching our classes.”

9. Do you have any suggestions for ways to improve the physical education curriculum at our school?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have any ideas for improving the school’s physical education program. They want to know that you’re willing to make changes and improvements when necessary. In your answer, share two or three ways you would like to change the curriculum. Explain why these changes are important and how they can benefit students.

Example: “Yes, I believe there are a few ways to improve the physical education curriculum at your school. First, I think it is important to incorporate more activities that promote teamwork and collaboration among students. This could include activities like cooperative games or team sports. Secondly, I would suggest introducing technology into the classroom in order to make learning more engaging for students. For example, you could use apps or online tools to track student progress and provide feedback on their performance. Finally, I believe it is essential to focus on developing healthy habits and lifestyles in addition to teaching physical skills. This could involve incorporating nutrition lessons into the curriculum or providing opportunities for students to participate in outdoor activities such as hiking or camping.”

10. When planning a lesson, how do you decide which activities to use and why?

This question can help interviewers understand how you plan lessons and what factors influence your decisions. Use examples from past experiences to explain the process of planning a lesson, including why you chose certain activities over others.

Example: “When I plan a lesson, I always start by considering the learning objectives. From there, I select activities that will help my students reach those goals in an engaging and effective way. For example, if I’m teaching a unit on basketball fundamentals, I might choose to include drills such as dribbling and passing exercises, as well as some game-based activities like 3v3 or 5v5 scrimmages. These activities allow students to practice their skills while also having fun and developing teamwork.

I also consider the age group of my students when selecting activities. Younger students may need more guidance and structure, so I would use activities with clear rules and instructions. Older students can handle more complex tasks, so I would incorporate activities that require problem solving, strategy, and critical thinking.”

11. We want our students to learn about healthy eating habits and the importance of exercise. What experiences do you have in this area?

The interviewer may ask you this question to learn more about your background in teaching students about healthy habits. Use examples from your experience that show how you can help students develop good eating and exercise habits.

Example: “I have extensive experience teaching students about healthy eating habits and the importance of exercise. During my time as a PE Teacher, I have developed several lesson plans that focus on nutrition education and physical activity. My lessons are designed to help students understand the benefits of making healthy food choices and how regular physical activity can improve their overall health and wellbeing. In addition, I have organized field trips to local farms and grocery stores to give students an opportunity to learn more about where their food comes from and how to make healthier selections when shopping for groceries. Finally, I am passionate about helping students develop lifelong habits of healthy eating and exercise, so I often incorporate fun activities into my lessons to keep them engaged and motivated.”

12. Describe your teaching style and how it helps you connect with students.

The interviewer wants to know how you plan lessons and interact with students. They want to see that your teaching style is effective, but they also want to know if it’s compatible with the school’s curriculum. When answering this question, describe your teaching style in detail and explain how it helps you connect with students.

Example: “My teaching style is centered around creating an engaging and interactive learning environment. I believe that students learn best when they are actively involved in their own education, so I strive to create activities and lessons that involve student participation. My goal is to make the material relevant and interesting for my students, while also challenging them to think critically about the topics we discuss.

I also focus on building relationships with my students. I take time to get to know each of them as individuals, and use this knowledge to tailor my instruction to meet their needs. I find that by connecting with my students on a personal level, it helps to build trust and mutual respect which leads to better engagement in class. Finally, I am always open to feedback from my students and encourage them to share their thoughts and ideas.”

13. What makes you qualified to teach physical education?

This question is an opportunity to show your passion for teaching physical education. You can highlight any previous experience you have with teaching PE, including coaching or tutoring students in sports.

Example: “I am an experienced physical education teacher with a strong background in providing quality instruction and engaging students. I have been teaching PE for the past five years, during which time I have developed a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively teach physical education. My experience has also taught me how to create fun and exciting activities that keep students engaged and motivated.

I believe my qualifications make me uniquely qualified to teach physical education. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education from a top university, as well as several certifications related to health and fitness. In addition, I am certified in CPR and First Aid, so I can provide appropriate medical attention if needed. Finally, I have extensive knowledge of sports and recreational activities, allowing me to design creative lessons that meet the needs of each student.”

14. Which sports or activities do you enjoy teaching the most and why?

This question can help the interviewer get a better sense of your teaching style and personality. It’s important to be honest about which sports or activities you enjoy, but it’s also helpful to explain why they’re meaningful to you.

Example: “I enjoy teaching a variety of sports and activities, but my favorite is basketball. I love the challenge of helping students develop their skills in this fast-paced sport. It’s also great to see them grow in confidence as they become more comfortable with the game. Basketball requires a lot of teamwork, so it’s rewarding to watch students learn how to work together and support each other.

In addition to basketball, I really enjoy teaching fitness classes. I believe that physical activity is essential for overall health and wellbeing, so it’s important to me to help my students understand the importance of staying active. I strive to make my classes fun and engaging while still focusing on proper technique and form.”

15. What do you think is the most important thing for students to learn from your PE classes?

This question can help interviewers understand your philosophy on teaching and how you plan to impact students. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific skill or quality that you think is important for students to learn in PE class.

Example: “I believe the most important thing for students to learn from my PE classes is how to stay active and healthy. Physical education provides an opportunity for students to develop skills that will help them maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout their lives. By teaching proper exercise techniques, nutrition, and safety protocols, I strive to ensure that each student leaves my class with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health.

In addition, I also want my students to understand the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Through physical activities, I encourage students to work together in order to achieve common goals. This helps to foster communication and problem-solving skills which are essential for success in any field. Finally, I aim to instill a sense of self-confidence and pride in my students by helping them recognize their individual strengths and weaknesses.”

16. How often do you update your knowledge and skills as a PE teacher?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn about your commitment to professional development. They want to know that you are always looking for ways to improve as a teacher and help your students succeed. When answering, consider mentioning some of the methods you use to stay up-to-date on current teaching practices and research in physical education.

Example: “I am committed to staying up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in physical education. I regularly attend professional development workshops, conferences, and seminars related to PE teaching. I also keep an eye on new research and publications in the field so that I can incorporate any relevant findings into my lessons.

Furthermore, I stay connected with other PE teachers through online discussion forums and social media groups. This allows me to share best practices and gain insights from experienced professionals. Finally, I make sure to review all of the materials provided by my current school district to ensure I’m using the most effective strategies for teaching physical education.”

17. There is a bug infestation in the gym where you plan to hold a class. What is your reaction?

This question is a test of your problem-solving skills. It also shows the interviewer how you react to stressful situations and whether you can remain calm under pressure. Your answer should show that you are able to stay composed in such situations, while still finding solutions to solve them.

Example: “My first reaction to a bug infestation in the gym would be to take immediate action. I understand that this is an issue that needs to be addressed quickly and efficiently, as it could potentially cause health risks for students. To begin with, I would contact the appropriate authorities to have the problem professionally taken care of. In the meantime, I would also look into ways to reduce the number of bugs present in the gym, such as using natural repellents or vacuuming regularly.

Once the bug infestation has been dealt with, I would ensure that proper measures are put in place to prevent future issues. This could include regular cleaning and maintenance of the gym, as well as implementing pest control protocols. As a PE Teacher, safety is my top priority and I am committed to providing a safe environment for my students to learn and play in.”

18. How do you handle difficult or challenging students in your classes?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your classroom management skills. They want to know how you can help students who are struggling in class and ensure they’re learning the material. In your answer, try to explain that you use positive reinforcement and encourage collaboration among students.

Example: “I understand that every student is different and has their own unique set of needs. When I encounter a challenging or difficult student, my approach is to first try to establish a positive relationship with them. This helps create an environment of trust and understanding between us so that we can work together to find the best way for them to learn.

I also use a variety of teaching strategies to help engage these students in the lesson. For example, I might break down complex concepts into smaller chunks, provide visual aids, or offer hands-on activities to make learning more enjoyable. By doing this, I’m able to ensure that all students are engaged and have the opportunity to succeed.”

19. Do you have any experience teaching special needs students or those with physical disabilities?

If the school you’re interviewing for has a special education program, your interviewer may ask this question to learn more about how you would handle teaching students with unique needs. If you don’t have experience working with these types of students, explain that you are open to learning new techniques and adapting your methods to accommodate them.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience teaching special needs students and those with physical disabilities. During my previous job as a PE Teacher, I had the opportunity to work with a range of different students including those with physical disabilities and learning difficulties. I was able to adapt my lessons to meet their individual needs and ensure that they were able to participate in activities safely and enjoyably.

I also worked closely with other members of staff to provide support for these students, such as providing one-to-one assistance or helping them access specialist equipment. My approach was always positive and encouraging, and I believe this helped create an inclusive environment where all students felt comfortable and engaged.”

20. What strategies do you use to motivate and engage students who are not interested in participating in physical activities?

This question can help interviewers understand how you plan and execute lessons that are engaging for all students. Use examples from your experience to explain the steps you take to engage students who may not be as interested in physical activity.

Example: “I believe that the key to motivating and engaging students in physical activities is creating an environment of fun, support, and encouragement. To achieve this, I use a variety of strategies.

One strategy I use is to provide incentives for participation. This could be something as simple as awarding points or tokens for completing tasks or participating in activities. These rewards can help motivate students who may not otherwise be interested in physical activity.

Another strategy I use is to encourage collaboration among students. By working together in teams or groups, students are more likely to stay engaged and motivated. I also like to incorporate games into my lessons, which helps keep things interesting and encourages students to participate.

Lastly, I strive to create a positive atmosphere where all students feel comfortable and respected. When students feel supported and accepted, they are more likely to take part in physical activities.”

21. Describe a time when you had to come up with an innovative lesson plan on short notice.

This question can help interviewers understand how you approach challenges and solve problems. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation and the steps you took to develop an effective lesson plan.

Example: “In my first year as a PE teacher, I was asked to teach a new unit on basketball in one week because of a last-minute change in the curriculum. At first, I was worried about teaching such a complex topic in so little time, but then I remembered that I had already taught many of the skills needed for basketball during other units. So, I decided to use those previous lessons as a foundation for the new unit. By using what I already knew, I was able to create a fun basketball unit that helped students learn important concepts.”

Example: “I recently had to come up with an innovative lesson plan on short notice when I was teaching a PE class. The students were getting bored of the same activities, so I needed to come up with something new and exciting.

I decided to create a game that combined elements from several different sports. This allowed me to use the skills they already knew while introducing them to some new ones. It also gave them the opportunity to work together as a team and have fun at the same time.

The game was a huge success! Not only did it keep my students engaged and interested, but it also helped them develop their physical literacy skills. They learned how to cooperate and strategize in order to win the game, which is an important life skill.”

22. In what ways can physical education contribute to the overall success of our school?

This question can help interviewers understand your commitment to the school and its students. They may want to know that you’re passionate about helping students succeed in all areas of their lives, not just physically.

Example: “Physical education is an essential part of any school’s success. It can help students develop important physical skills and knowledge that will benefit them throughout their lives. Physical activity has been linked to improved academic performance, better concentration, and increased self-esteem. Furthermore, it can also foster a sense of community within the school as students work together in team sports or other activities.

As a PE teacher, I believe my role is to create engaging lessons that motivate students to be active and have fun while learning. Through creative lesson plans and activities, I strive to ensure that all students are able to participate regardless of ability level. By providing a safe and inclusive environment, I hope to encourage students to take risks and challenge themselves both physically and mentally.”

23. How do you ensure that all safety guidelines are followed during PE class?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your safety protocols and how you ensure that students follow them. Use examples from your experience as a PE teacher, including the steps you take to make sure all students are safe during class.

Example: “Safety is my top priority when it comes to teaching PE. I always start by making sure that all of the equipment is in good condition and that any hazards are addressed before class begins. I also ensure that all students understand the safety rules for each activity and review them at the beginning of every lesson. During activities, I make sure to keep an eye on everyone to ensure they are following the guidelines and not taking unnecessary risks. Finally, if there are any injuries or accidents, I have a plan in place to handle the situation appropriately. By taking these steps, I am confident that I can provide a safe environment for my students while still allowing them to enjoy physical activity.”

24. Tell us about a time when you overcame an obstacle while teaching physical education.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your problem-solving skills and how you overcome challenges. When answering, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation in which you overcame an obstacle or challenge while teaching PE.

Example: “When I first started teaching physical education, I had a student who was very shy. He would often sit on the sidelines during games and rarely participated. One day, he told me that he wanted to try out for the basketball team but didn’t know how to play. I decided to help him practice shooting baskets after school so he could get comfortable with the sport before tryouts. After practicing together, he felt confident enough to try out for the team.”

Example: “I recently faced a unique challenge while teaching physical education. I was tasked with introducing a new sport to my students, and many of them had never played it before. To ensure that everyone felt comfortable and confident playing the game, I developed an in-depth lesson plan that focused on the basics of the sport.

I started by breaking down the rules and fundamentals of the game into small chunks so that each student could understand them easily. Then, I used interactive activities such as drills and team games to help reinforce what they had learned. Finally, I provided individual feedback and guidance to each student during practice sessions.

My efforts paid off! By the end of the unit, all of my students were able to play the game confidently and enjoyed it immensely. It was incredibly rewarding to see how far they had come since the beginning of the unit. This experience reinforced for me the importance of providing clear instruction and support when teaching physical education.”

25. What would be your approach if one of your students was injured during a game?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle emergency situations and ensure the safety of your students. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to assess the injury and provide care for the student.

Example: “If one of my students was injured during a game, I would first assess the situation to determine the severity of the injury. If it is minor and the student can continue playing with minimal discomfort, then I will provide them with guidance on how to manage their pain and prevent further injury. However, if the injury is more serious, I will immediately stop play and call for medical assistance.

I also believe in educating my students on proper safety protocols and techniques so they are better prepared to handle any potential injuries. This includes teaching them about warm-up exercises, proper stretching, and the importance of wearing protective gear when engaging in physical activities. Finally, I make sure that all of my classes have an emergency plan in place should an injury occur.”