Why choose us?AboutPricing
LeadersSafeguardingCPDGovernorHubKeyGPT

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 4 February 2025
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 41385
Contents
  1. Do your research 
  2. Reflect on how your experience fits the role  
  3. Leadership CPD from The Key
  4. Download our sample interview questions to help you prepare
  5. Know how to impress at every stage of the process 
  6. Use feedback constructively

Do your research 

You must show 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 your research questions and thoughts, so that you remember 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: 

  • Which areas relate directly to the role you're applying for 
  • If there's anything missing and if so, how you can demonstrate that you'll help them fill the gap 

However, talk about topics such as poor results sensitively – show how you can be part of the solution.

Learn what the school stands for, and plan how to clearly embody these principles at