From preparation to follow-up — feel confident and ready
Starting your teaching journey or stepping into a new supply or SEN role can feel exciting — and a little nerve-wracking. Whether you’re interviewing for your first supply placement, an SEN support role, or a long-term opportunity in Newham or Tower Hamlets, good preparation can make all the difference.
At Red Box Teachers, we support candidates through every stage of the recruitment process. Below are our top tips to help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to impress at your next school interview.
1. Research the School (and the Community)
Schools want to know that you’re genuinely interested in them, not just any role.
Before your interview:
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Visit the school’s website
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Read their vision, values and behaviour policy
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Check the Ofsted report
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Understand the local community — especially important in diverse boroughs like Newham and Tower Hamlets
Top tip: Be ready to mention how you can support pupils from a range of cultural, linguistic, and learning backgrounds.
Looking for roles in Newham or Tower Hamlets?
Register with Red Box Teachers to access local opportunities that match your skills.
2. Prepare Clear Examples (Especially for SEN Support)
Interviewers love real examples. Think about situations where you have:
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Managed challenging behaviour
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Supported pupils with SEN or additional needs
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Adapted lessons or activities
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Worked successfully with teaching staff or SENCOs
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep answers clear and confident.
If you’re an SEN teaching assistant or support worker, be ready to talk about:
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Autism, ADHD, SEMH or speech & language needs
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One-to-one vs small-group support
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Safeguarding awareness
3. Understand the Role You’re Interviewing For
Supply and SEN roles can vary hugely from school to school.
Make sure you’re clear on:
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Daily responsibilities
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Expectations for behaviour management
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Flexibility (especially in supply roles)
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Who you’ll be reporting to
If anything is unclear, it’s absolutely okay to ask questions — it shows professionalism and confidence.
Not sure which role suits you best?
Our team can talk you through your options — get in touch with Red Box Teachers.
4. Dress Professionally and Arrive Early
First impressions matter.
- Dress smartly and appropriately for a school environment
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early
- Bring copies of your CV and any relevant certificates
Even for supply roles, schools want to see reliability and professionalism from day one.
5. Be Yourself — Schools Value Personality
Schools aren’t just hiring qualifications — they’re hiring people.
Let your:
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Passion for education
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Commitment to supporting pupils
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Willingness to learn
shine through.
If you’re new to supply or SEN work, be honest. Schools appreciate enthusiasm, flexibility, and a positive attitude just as much as experience.
6. Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you’ll almost always be asked if you have questions.
Good examples include:
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“How does the school support new supply staff?”
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“What SEN support structures are in place?”
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“What does success look like in this role?”
This shows you’re engaged and serious about the position.
7. Follow Up After the Interview
A simple follow-up can leave a lasting impression.
After your interview:
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Thank the interviewer for their time
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Reconfirm your interest in the role
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Ask about next steps
If you’re working with Red Box Teachers, we’ll also follow up with the school on your behalf and keep you informed.
Want interview support and honest feedback?
Submit your CV today and let our team guide you through the process.