International school interviews: common questions and how to prepare
The questions British international schools ask teachers and leaders, from safeguarding to adapting to a new culture, plus the questions you should ask them.
International school interviews test the same things as interviews in the UK: subject knowledge, classroom practice and safeguarding. They also add a question that UK interviews rarely ask: will you thrive in a new country, far from home?
Questions about teaching
- How do you adapt your teaching for students learning in English as an additional language?
- How do you use assessment data to plan lessons?
- Describe a lesson that went badly. What did you change?
- How do you challenge the most able students in a mixed-ability class?
- What experience do you have of IGCSE or A-Level specifications? Which exam boards?
Tip: schools abroad often have very diverse classes, so give examples involving EAL, differentiation and cultural awareness.
Safeguarding questions
- What would you do if a student disclosed something worrying to you?
- How do you maintain professional boundaries, including online?
- What would you do if you had concerns about a colleague’s behaviour?
Answer with clear, procedural steps: listen, don’t promise confidentiality, record, report to the designated safeguarding lead, and follow up.
Questions about living abroad
- Why do you want to work internationally, and why this country?
- What do you know about the local culture and our school community?
- How have you coped with change or isolation before?
- How would your family settle here?
- What will you contribute beyond the classroom (clubs, trips, sport)?
Schools are trying to avoid early departures, which disrupt students. Show that you have researched the country and that your decision is well considered.
Questions you should ask
- What is the average length of stay of teaching staff?
- How is professional development funded and organised?
- What does a typical week look like, including duties and cover?
- How does leadership support staff wellbeing?
- Can I speak to a current teacher in my department?
Strong candidates interview the school as carefully as the school interviews them. Before accepting an offer, check the contract carefully. See our contract red flags checklist.
Frequently asked questions
Are international school interviews done online?
Most first-round interviews are online, given time zones and distance. Many schools also ask for a recorded or live lesson. Final rounds may be online too, or in person at a recruitment fair or at the school.
Why do international schools ask so many safeguarding questions?
Safer recruitment is a core requirement for reputable British schools, and inspection frameworks check it. Expect at least one detailed safeguarding question in every interview.