Hello, I’m Joycellyn
As a journalist with more than a decade of experience working across some of the UK’s top publications – from BBC Good Homes to Cosmopolitan and Glamour magazine, as well as numerous business titles – I’ve honed the art of communication and storytelling. These skills have proven invaluable in helping children prepare for independent school interviews, where the ability to express oneself clearly and confidently is paramount.
My journey into educational coaching began when my own children faced the daunting independent school interview process. As a parent, I experienced firsthand the anxiety and uncertainty that comes with preparing a child for such a pivotal moment in their educational journey. This personal experience, combined with my professional background, inspired me to create a comprehensive approach to interview preparation that addresses both the practical and emotional aspects of the process.
Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of guiding hundreds of children through successful independent school interviews, many securing places at the UK’s most prestigious institutions. What brings me the greatest satisfaction is witnessing the transformation in these young people—from nervous, uncertain candidates to confident, articulate individuals who can authentically showcase their unique qualities and potential.
Our Approach to Independent School Interview Preparation
At The Independent School Interview, we understand that securing a place at a prestigious independent school involves much more than simply memorising answers to potential questions. The interview is an opportunity for your child to demonstrate not only their academic abilities but also their character, interests, and potential contribution to school life.
Our approach is built on three fundamental principles:
Authentic Confidence
We don’t believe in creating scripted robots. Instead, we help children develop genuine confidence by understanding their unique strengths and learning how to articulate their thoughts clearly and naturally. This authentic approach resonates with interviewers and allows your child’s true personality to shine through.
Comprehensive Preparation
Our preparation covers all aspects of the interview process, from handling traditional questions about academic interests to navigating more challenging scenarios designed to test critical thinking and character. We provide children with the tools to think on their feet and respond thoughtfully to whatever questions come their way.
Supportive Environment
We create a nurturing space where children feel comfortable practising their interview skills without fear of judgment. Through constructive feedback and positive reinforcement, we gradually build their confidence, ensuring they enter the actual interview feeling prepared and at ease.
Our Approach
We understand that the admissions process can be daunting both for children and their parents. At Independent School Interview, we believe that confidence stems from thorough preparation and understanding. Our tailored coaching sessions focus on key skills such as:
- Effective Communication: Harness the power of storytelling and articulate responses.
- Critical Thinking: Enable your child to navigate complex questions and scenarios with ease.
- Confidence Building: Create a supportive environment where your child can practice and receive constructive feedback.
We are dedicated to making the learning process engaging and positive, ensuring that your child not only succeeds in their interviews but also develops skills that will benefit them throughout their educational journey.
Our Interview Preparation Journey: A Decade of Excellence
What began as a personal mission to help my own children has evolved into a specialised service that has transformed the educational journeys of hundreds of families across the UK. Our interview preparation programme has continually evolved to reflect the changing landscape of independent school admissions, incorporating insights gained from real interviews and feedback from successful candidates.
Today, The Independent School Interview stands as a testament to the power of expert guidance, personalised attention, and proven methodologies. We’ve refined our approach through years of experience, identifying the subtle nuances that make the difference between a good interview and an exceptional one that leaves a lasting impression on admissions panels.
Our expertise extends beyond traditional day schools to boarding schools, where the interview process often explores a child’s readiness for residential life and independence. We understand the specific requirements of different types of schools and tailor our guidance accordingly, ensuring your child is prepared for their particular interview scenario.
Many of our students have not only secured places at their first-choice schools but have also been awarded academic, music, art, or sports scholarships. This is a testament to how our comprehensive preparation helps children showcase their unique talents and potential.
What Sets Our Interview Preparation Apart
In the competitive landscape of independent school admissions, where multiple qualified candidates vie for limited places, interview performance can be the deciding factor. Our specialised focus on interview preparation provides children with a distinct advantage:
Expert-Led Guidance
Our programme is led by professionals with firsthand knowledge of what independent schools are looking for in prospective students. This insider perspective informs every aspect of our preparation process, from the questions we practice to the feedback we provide.
Comprehensive Resources
Students gain access to our exclusive 50-question interview booklet, featuring real questions used by top UK independent schools. Our video lessons cover everything from body language and voice projection to handling challenging questions and effectively showcasing extracurricular interests.
Personalised Approach
We recognise that each child is unique, with their own strengths, interests, and areas for development. Our preparation is tailored to highlight individual qualities while addressing specific challenges, ensuring your child presents their authentic best self during the interview.
Beyond technical preparation, we place significant emphasis on building genuine confidence – the kind that comes from thorough preparation and self-awareness. This confidence is immediately apparent to interviewers and sets our students apart from those who may appear over-rehearsed or uncomfortable in the interview setting.
Ready to Help Your Child Succeed?
Give your child the advantage of expert interview preparation and watch them shine when it matters most. Our comprehensive course provides all the tools, practice, and confidence they need to excel in their independent school interview.