Private school interviews are a pivotal part of the admissions process, offering schools a chance to look beyond test scores and academic records to understand your child’s character, personality, and potential. However, many parents underestimate the role they themselves play in this process.

Your behaviour, attitude, and preparation during the interview can make just as much of an impression as your child’s performance. While it’s natural to want the best for your child, some common parental missteps can inadvertently work against them.

In this guide, we’ll outline the 10 most common mistakes parents make during private school interviews and, most importantly, share practical tips on how to avoid them.

1. Arriving Unprepared

The Mistake:

Walking into the interview without any prior research about the school sends a clear message: you’re not fully invested. Schools want to see that parents care about their institution and have taken the time to understand its ethos, programmes, and culture.

How to Avoid It:

• Research Thoroughly: Explore the school’s website, prospectus, and recent news or events.
• Know the Values: Familiarise yourself with the school’s mission statement and core values.
• Prepare Questions: Have one or two thoughtful questions ready to ask the admissions officer.

Example Questions to Ask:

• “How does the school support students in exploring their unique strengths and interests?”
• “What opportunities are there for parental involvement in the school community?”

Being informed sets a strong foundation for a confident and productive conversation.

2. Dominating the Conversation

The Mistake:

It’s natural to want to advocate for your child, but taking over the conversation can overshadow your child’s voice. Some parents interrupt frequently, answer on behalf of their child, or steer every question back to their own opinions.

How to Avoid It:

• Let Your Child Speak: Give them space to answer questions independently.
• Know Your Role: Your job is to support, not overshadow.
• Wait Your Turn: When addressed directly, answer clearly and concisely.

The admissions team wants to see how your child interacts, expresses themselves, and handles questions. Your role is to create space for that to happen.

3. Speaking Negatively About Your Child’s Current School or Teachers

The Mistake:

It might feel harmless to mention frustrations with your child’s current school, but negativity can reflect poorly on you. Schools may interpret it as a sign that you’re difficult to please or overly critical.

How to Avoid It:

• Stay Positive: Focus on the opportunities the new school offers rather than the shortcomings of the old one.
• Frame Concerns Diplomatically: If asked about challenges, focus on how they’ve been addressed.
• Highlight Growth: Talk about your child’s progress rather than dwelling on past frustrations.

Better Framing Example:
“We’re really proud of the foundation our child has received so far, and we’re excited about the new opportunities they’ll find at your school.”

4. Over-Promising or Exaggerating Your Child’s Abilities

The Mistake:

In an effort to impress the admissions team, some parents exaggerate their child’s abilities, achievements, or interests. While it might seem harmless, experienced interviewers can usually spot these embellishments.

How to Avoid It:

• Be Honest: Share your child’s strengths with pride, but remain truthful.
• Discuss Challenges Openly: Show awareness of areas where your child is still growing.
• Focus on Potential: Highlight your child’s enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

Schools value authenticity and potential more than perfection.

5. Not Allowing Your Child to Take the Lead

The Mistake:

When parents jump in to answer questions directed at their child, it undermines their independence and confidence. It can also make your child feel like you don’t trust them to represent themselves well.

How to Avoid It:

• Practise at Home: Have mock interviews where your child answers questions independently.
• Resist the Urge to Intervene: Give your child time to think and respond.
• Be Supportive, Not Controlling: Trust that your child is capable of handling the conversation.

The interview is your child’s chance to shine—don’t steal their spotlight.

6. Failing to Ask Questions About the School

The Mistake:

When parents don’t ask any questions, it can come across as disinterest or a lack of engagement. Schools want to see parents who are genuinely excited about the opportunity.

How to Avoid It:

• Come Prepared: Have a few thoughtful questions ready.
• Focus on Your Priorities: Ask about academics, student support, extracurricular activities, or the school community.
• Show Curiosity: Demonstrate a genuine interest in the school’s approach to education.

Good Question Example:
“How does the school nurture students’ individual strengths and interests?”

7. Showing Nervous or Closed-Off Body Language

The Mistake:

Your body language speaks volumes. Nervous fidgeting, avoiding eye contact, or appearing disengaged can send the wrong message.

How to Avoid It:

• Make Eye Contact: It conveys confidence and respect.
• Sit Up Straight: Good posture shows engagement and attentiveness.
• Smile Naturally: A warm smile helps create a positive atmosphere.

Sometimes, it’s the non-verbal cues that leave the strongest impression.

8. Ignoring Follow-Up Etiquette

The Mistake:

Not following up after an interview can feel like a missed opportunity to leave a final positive impression.

How to Avoid It:

• Send a Thank-You Email: A brief note expressing gratitude is always appreciated.
• Be Sincere: Keep your message polite, professional, and authentic.
• Don’t Overdo It: A single follow-up is enough.

A small gesture of gratitude can go a long way.

9. Placing Too Much Pressure on Your Child

The Mistake:

Reminding your child repeatedly about how ‘important’ the interview is can add unnecessary stress and make them more nervous.

How to Avoid It:

• Focus on Encouragement: Celebrate their effort, not just the outcome.
• Keep Conversations Positive: Avoid phrases that might add pressure.
• Normalise the Experience: Remind them it’s just a conversation, not a test.

Your child will perform best when they feel supported, not pressured.

10. Treating the Interview Like a Transaction

The Mistake:

Some parents approach interviews as if they’re pitching a business deal rather than building a relationship.

How to Avoid It:

• Be Genuine: Show real enthusiasm for the school.
• Focus on Connection: Treat the conversation as an opportunity to build rapport.
• Avoid Being Overly Pushy: Authenticity always wins over forced enthusiasm.

Admissions teams value families who show genuine excitement and care about long-term partnership.

Final Thoughts

Private school interviews are about building relationships, showcasing your family’s values, and allowing your child to shine. By avoiding these common mistakes and focusing on preparation, authenticity, and positivity, you’ll create a strong, lasting impression.

Approach the interview with confidence, treat it as a meaningful conversation, and remember—schools are not just assessing your child, they’re welcoming your entire family into their community.