Just like any other job, a teaching assistant position requires an interview that you need to pass. To help you prepare for one, here are some of the most common interview questions that are asked during a teaching assistant interview, followed by the answers that you can give:
Q: What is the role of a teaching assistant?
A: A teaching assistant helps the teacher prepare lessons. For example, I am responsible for setting up any materials or equipment needed for the lesson. It is also my responsibility to observe each student and to report to the teacher if there are any issues during the class. If there are children who need additional attention or support—for example, children with learning disabilities—I will be there to provide them with the assistance they need, so that they can have a comfortable learning environment.
Q: What makes a good lesson?
A: A good lesson is one that keeps children interested in learning. While it is the teacher’s job to prepare the lessons, what I can do is to offer my help in whatever area the teacher needs. As a teaching assistant, I am prepared to support the teacher to the best of my abilities.
Q: How good are you with organization?
(Good organization skills are one of the characteristics that interviewers look for in teaching assistant candidates.)
A: I am a well-organised person who keeps a planner and a calendar to take note of my activities and tasks. In my home, I want everything to be in their proper places. It drives me crazy when my things are in disarray! (Tell them how you keep your things and schedule organized. If you are not as organized, tell them how you are trying to keep things in order.)
Q: Why do you want to work at this school?
A: I want to work at this school because it has… (Enumerate the strengths of the school and the things you like about it. You should do your research about the school before going to your interview, so you can answer this question confidently.)
Q: Why do you want to be a teaching assistant?
(If you have any experience teaching kids or volunteering, this is a great opportunity to bring them up.)
A: I used to volunteer for an organization that went to orphanages and organized activities for the kids. I really enjoyed my time as a volunteer and realized that I want to find a job that allows me to continue helping kids. That’s why I want to be a teaching assistant. (You can also talk about the aspects of a teaching assistant’s job that you’re looking forward to do. e.g., making arts and crafts with kids, helping children with learning disabilities, encouraging children to pursue their passions and dreams, developing children’s talents in any way you can, etcetera.)
But, before you can even go for an interview, you have to complete a level 3 teaching assistant course, just like the one that Brighter Learning offers. Their home study course allows you to become a fully qualified teaching assistant.
As a last tip: On the day of your interview, take a couple of deep breaths before going in. Be confident and stay true to yourself.