Tips needed for Teaching Assistant interview!

[poucher]

I have surprised myself and landed an interview for a Classroom Teaching Assistant post at a local high school next week. Now that the reality has set in, I am wondering what the most likely questions are going to be - there is also a short time of being observed in a classroom environment, which is worrying me slightly! I would love to hear from any secondary school teaching assistants out there - not just interview advice but more general info about what to expect, why you like the job etc. I have no idea whether I am realistically in with a chance, but intend to give it my best shot!

[eatyourveg]

make sure you are up on the every child matters outcomes, they are also bound to ask something about equality and diversity

[poucher]

Thanks very much everyone - v helpful advice!

[notapizzaeater]

Ooh thanks for that, I've an interview for primary TA on Monday x

[LuvMyBoyz]

Hi Poucher. Join the TES forums and look on the
Teaching Assistant forum where there is a thread which is kept up to date by interviewees. loads of people say it really helped them prepare for their interview. Good luck.

[booksteensandmagazines]

Some schools ask about how you would deal with a situation if a child tells you something of concern - the answer should be that you would follow the school policy which is normally that you listen but never promise to keep a secret and you refer to the person in charge of child protection. Might be worth having a quick look at any policies on the website.
Have you posted on the staff room page?

[emskibug]

Hi Poucher
congrats on gaining your interview. I am volunteering at the mo in a secondary school and have to say it is a real challenging role. Its important to make eye contact and smile with the children and let them know you are there to help and that gaining a good education is really important to them.its important also for you to take deep breaths and dont take things personnally. patience and understanding go a long way.
let us know how you get on. Good Luck.