Questions to ask looking around school.

[JasonGideon]

Hi everyone,

I am looking around a Secondary school tomorrow for a formal chat. I’ve done some research and the school looks amazing and I want to make a good impression. I have already submitted my application.
What questions should I ask? What should I wear?

Wear your most formal clothes. A suit is always good for an interview like situation.

Read their Ofsted report and latest newsletter, ask about something in there to make a good impression.

Who are you replacing? Where is that person off to? How long have they been in that post?

Ask to nip into a student loo while being shown around. The state of that should be very telling.

It’s an interview. Don’t be outfoxed into thinking it’s informal.

Don’t ask to nip into a student loo. It’s a student toilet. They will think you have no idea about safeguarding and never employ you.

Wear a suit. Read the ofsted report. Know how the department you’re applying to did / know about the big challenges your subject is facing.

Resources/facilities
SEN
The expectation to teach outside of your subject
Ofsted

Student loo when there are no students around, obviously!

I didn’t wear a suit for my job interview last Tuesday - I wore ankle grazer checked trousers, DM shiny red shoes and a black three quarter sleeved top. I got the job. I wear what I’m relaxed in which helps for me. A suit would make me uncomfortable. Look smart but be comfortable.

Ask about the head teacher, see the school at changeover times, ask about exam results, what the local area is like, what extra curricular stuff they have. Be interested and see what comes up.