The private school interview is a key stage in the admissions process, and it can feel just as nerve-wracking for you as it does for your child. It’s natural to want them to make a great impression, answer confidently, and represent themselves authentically. But with the right preparation, the interview can become less of a daunting challenge and more of an opportunity for your child to shine.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most common interview questions your child may encounter, explain what interviewers are really looking for, and share tips to help your child prepare thoughtful and confident answers.
Why Do Private Schools Conduct Interviews?
Private schools use interviews as a way to look beyond grades and test scores. They want to understand who your child is as a person, how they communicate, and whether they’ll thrive in the school’s community.
These interviews give admissions teams insight into:
- Your child’s personality and character
- Their ability to communicate effectively
- Their enthusiasm for learning and school life
- How well they might fit into the school’s culture and values
In essence, the interview is an opportunity for your child to showcase their individuality and for the school to see if they’re a good match.
Common Private School Interview Questions and How to Prepare for Them
1. What Do You Like to Do in Your Free Time?
Why They Ask: Schools want to understand your child’s interests and hobbies, as these often reflect their personality, passions, and how they might contribute to school life.
How to Approach It:
- Encourage your child to talk about hobbies they genuinely enjoy.
- Help them provide specific examples—whether it’s reading, sports, art, music, or coding.
- Remind them it’s okay to have a mix of academic and non-academic interests.
Sample Answer:
“In my free time, I love reading adventure books because I enjoy imagining different worlds and characters. I also play football every weekend with my local team—it helps me stay active and work as part of a team.”
The key is to let their personality shine through.
2. Why Do You Want to Attend This School?
Why They Ask: Schools want to see if your child has a genuine interest in attending rather than simply being pushed by their parents.
How to Approach It:
- Make sure your child knows about the school’s unique qualities—academic programmes, clubs, or facilities.
- Help them connect their interests to what the school offers.
- Avoid generic answers like “It’s a good school.”
Sample Answer:
“I want to attend this school because of its excellent science programme. I’ve always loved science experiments, and I’m excited about the chance to join the school’s science club and use the laboratory facilities.”
Specificity is key here—interviewers can tell when answers are genuine.
3. What Are Your Strengths and Weaknesses?
Why They Ask: This question helps interviewers gauge your child’s self-awareness and willingness to grow.
How to Approach It:
- Guide your child to think of one or two strengths they’re proud of.
- When discussing weaknesses, encourage honesty but frame them positively by showing steps they’re taking to improve.
Sample Answer:
“One of my strengths is that I’m very organised—I always keep my homework and projects on schedule. One thing I’m working on is speaking up more in class discussions. Sometimes I’m nervous about sharing my ideas, but I’ve been practising by raising my hand more often.”
This answer demonstrates maturity, awareness, and a growth mindset.
4. Can You Tell Us About a Time When You Showed Leadership?
Why They Ask: Schools want to see if your child can take initiative, motivate others, and handle responsibility.
How to Approach It:
- Ask your child to think of a specific example—this could be from school, sports, or even family life.
- Help them focus on what they did, how they approached the situation, and what the outcome was.
Sample Answer:
“Last year, during a group project at school, our team was struggling to stay organised. I suggested we make a plan and divide the tasks evenly. Everyone followed the plan, and we finished the project ahead of time.”
A clear example with a positive result always makes an impact.
5. Can You Give an Example of a Problem You Solved and How You Solved It?
Why They Ask: Problem-solving skills are essential in academic and social situations. This question assesses your child’s ability to think critically and act proactively.
How to Approach It:
- Encourage your child to recall a real situation where they solved a problem.
- Help them outline the problem, their actions, and the outcome.
Sample Answer:
“In my maths class, I was having trouble understanding fractions. I decided to ask my teacher for extra help after class, and she explained it to me in a different way. After practising at home, I got much better at fractions.”
This answer highlights resilience and a willingness to seek help when needed.
6. What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up?
Why They Ask: Schools are interested in your child’s ambitions and how they view their future.
How to Approach It:
- Remind your child that it’s okay not to have a definite answer.
- Encourage them to share their current interests and any future goals they might have.
Sample Answer:
“Right now, I’m really interested in animals, so I think I’d like to become a vet. But I also love drawing, so maybe something creative like an illustrator.”
Honest and thoughtful answers are always best.
7. Can You Tell Us About a Current Event or News Story That Interests You?
Why They Ask: This question assesses curiosity, awareness of the world, and communication skills.
How to Approach It:
- Help your child choose a topic they genuinely care about.
- Encourage them to share why they find it interesting and what they’ve learned from it.
Sample Answer:
“I recently read about a new recycling programme in our city that helps reduce plastic waste. I think it’s important because it helps protect animals and keeps our environment clean.”
A thoughtful response shows engagement with the world beyond school.
Final Thoughts for Parents
Private school interviews are not about delivering perfect answers—they’re about showcasing your child’s personality, confidence, and enthusiasm. As a parent, your role is to guide and support your child in preparing thoughtful, authentic responses without pressuring them to memorise scripts.
The best preparation is a mix of gentle practice, open conversations, and encouragement. With your support, your child will walk into their interview feeling prepared, confident, and ready to shine.
Leave a Reply