Preparing for senior leadership: what to expect in an interview

Use our top tips to impress at every stage of your senior leadership interview, including if you're applying for a leadership role in your current school. Learn how to tweak your preparations if you'll be attending the interview remotely, and plan your answers using our sample questions.

Last reviewed on 24 March 2026
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 41385
Contents
  1. Do your research 
  2. Reflect on how your experience fits the role  
  3. Download our sample interview questions to help you prepare
  4. Know how to impress at every stage of the process 
  5. Use feedback constructively

Do your research 

Schools will often look for applications that show that candidates understand the school’s specific needs. But you should also demonstrate that you’ve found out more about the school between submitting your application and attending your interview.

It's a good idea to note down questions and thoughts that come up during this research, so you can refer to them on the day. 

You'll likely be asked about the school’s priorities  

Scrutinise the school's:

  • School improvement plan (SIP)
  • Latest Ofsted report (if it's from the past few years)  
  • Website, for the school's development plans and/or priorities

Prepare to comment broadly and critically. Think about: 

Remember to talk about topics respectfully and professionally, particularly around issues such as