Why is this important?

Passion for a subject is infectious. Everyone wants a teacher that will display not only a love for the subject/subjects that they teach, but also an understanding of how to adapt content to ensure that it is relatable, accessible and inspiring.

Attending an interview without the ability to answer basic questions about the subject that you will be teaching sends a clear message that you lack passion and genuine interest in it. Similarly, if you cannot provide ideas on how to make the content more accessible, engaging, or relatable to students, it may suggest that you are not prepared to adapt your teaching to meet diverse learning needs. This can raise concerns about your ability to connect with students, inspire their interest in the subject, and effectively facilitate their learning journey.

Please use the checklist below to ensure that you are prepared to demonstrate genuine enthusiasm and adaptability in teaching your subject...

Demonstrating Passion for Teaching Your Subject/s and Phase or Key Stage

Click to expand: Subject Knowledge and Enthusiasm

• I can discuss key concepts, themes, and developments in the subject/s that I will be teaching.
• I stay updated with subject-specific advancements and changes in the curriculum.
• I can articulate why I am passionate about the subject/s and phase or key stage that I will be teaching and how it influences my teaching approach.
• I demonstrate enthusiasm for my subject/s in my lesson planning and classroom delivery.

I am able to demonstrate enthusiasm for the subject/s and phase or key stage that I will be teaching

Click to expand: Adapting Content for Engagement

• I can provide examples of how I would make content relatable to students.
• I consider students’ backgrounds, interests, and experiences when designing lessons.
• I incorporate real-world applications, storytelling, or cross-curricular links to enhance pupil engagement.
• I have strategies for adapting content to ensure accessibility for all learners.

I am able to adapt content to engage students.

Click to expand: Interview Preparedness

• I can confidently answer basic and advanced questions about the subject/s that I will be teaching.
• I have prepared examples of how I would teach challenging concepts effectively.
• I can provide concrete ideas on how to make lessons engaging and interactive.
• I can discuss how my passion for teaching translates into effective classroom practice.

I am prepared to answer challenging questions regarding my subject for the interview.

Click to expand: Student-Centred Approach

• I understand how to adapt my teaching to different key stages and learning styles.
• I have thought about how to inspire students to take ownership of their learning.
• I can provide examples of how I would respond to student misconceptions or disengagement.
• I actively seek student feedback and reflect on my teaching to improve engagement.

I have adopted a student-centred approach.

Click to expand: Commitment to Ongoing Development

• I regularly engage with professional development opportunities in my subject area.
• I collaborate with colleagues to share best practices and new teaching strategies.
• I seek out additional resources, such as academic journals, podcasts, or webinars, to deepen my subject knowledge.
• I reflect on my own teaching to continuously refine my approach and keep my passion alive.

I am committed to my ongoing professional development.