What to Expect from Your Interview

Your interview with Essex and Thames SCITT is designed to be friendly, supportive, and insightful, providing you with the opportunity to showcase your potential and learn more about the journey ahead.

Here’s what you can expect on the day:

Interview Structure

1. Welcome & Introduction

We’ll begin by introducing you to Essex and Thames SCITT, our training ethos, and what you can expect if you join our programme.

2. Teaching Presentation

You’ll deliver a 5–7 minute activity designed for the age range you’re applying to teach.

Afterwards, we’ll have a short discussion to reflect on your approach and answer a few follow-up questions.

3. Written Task

You’ll watch a short video showing an experienced teacher in action. Then, you’ll complete a handwritten analysis, sharing your observations and reflections.

4. One-to-One Conversation

This is a chance for us to get to know you and for you to get to know us. We’ll explore your motivation for teaching, discuss your individual training needs, and provide you with an opportunity to ask questions.

What We’re Looking For

Throughout the interview process, we’ll be looking for evidence of the following qualities, the same qualities that help trainees go on to become exceptional teachers:

• A genuine passion for helping children learn and grow
• Understanding of a teacher’s role and responsibilities
• Strong communication skills
• A firm commitment to keeping students and staff safe
• Dedication to the teaching profession
• Resilience and the ability to handle challenges
• An open, teachable mindset
• High personal and professional standards

Don’t worry; we’re not expecting perfection. We’re looking for potential, motivation and a readiness to learn.

What Happens After the Interview?

In most cases, we’ll let you know the outcome of your interview on the same day. Occasionally, we may invite a candidate back for a second-stage Assessment.

If you’re successful, we’ll guide you through the following steps, which include a series of pre-enrolment checks to ensure you’re suitable to work with children. This is part of our commitment to safer recruitment and creating secure learning environments for all.

View our complaints and appeals policy here.

If you haven’t applied yet, please click the button below to begin your application.  
Interested in starting your teaching journey? ‘Register Your Interest‘ using the form below, and one of our team members will be in touch to guide you through the next steps.