School Interview Preparation
Interview preparation coaching for 11+ and independent school entry.
Many independent schools interview children as part of 11+ entry. My interview preparation coaching helps your child speak clearly, think out loud and stay calm with an unfamiliar adult, through relaxed practice and realistic mock interviews. No scripts, just genuine confidence.
Book an Introductory ConsultationWhat Is School Interview Preparation Coaching?
School interview preparation coaching helps a child get ready for the interview many independent schools hold during 11+ entry. Schools use it to see how a child thinks, listens and talks about their interests. Good coaching builds composure and clear thinking rather than rehearsed answers, which interviewers can spot quickly.
How It WorksTalking About
Yourself
Sharing interests, hobbies and achievements naturally.
Thinking
Aloud
Working through an unfamiliar question calmly, step by step.
Reading &
Discussion
Talking about a book, a passage or a picture with confidence.
Group
Activities
Listening, taking turns and contributing in assessment days.
Confident, Not Coached
About Kate
Interview technique has always been part of my 11+ teaching, alongside light mindfulness and exam composure techniques. Over 13 years I have seen bright children lose their voice in front of a stranger, and quiet children shine once they know what to expect.
I do not give children answers to memorise. Instead we practise the kinds of questions schools ask, and I teach a simple way to pause, think and respond honestly. Children learn that "I'm not sure, but I think..." is a perfectly good start.
By the time the real interview arrives, talking to an unfamiliar adult feels like something they have done many times before.
What Interviewers Notice
Schools are rarely looking for a perfect answer. They want a child who listens, thinks and is willing to have a go. That is exactly what we practise.
How Interview Preparation Works
A short, focused programme that fits around your child's exam preparation and builds confidence step by step.
1. Getting to
Know You
We talk about interests, reading and favourite subjects to find your child's stories.
2. Question
Practice
Common and unexpected questions, practised in a relaxed way.
3. Mock
Interview
A realistic interview with an unfamiliar format and fresh questions.
4. Feedback &
Refine
Clear, kind feedback for your child and notes for parents.
Mock Interview Preparation
A mock interview is the closest thing to the real day. I run it in a formal style, with questions your child has not seen before, and sometimes a short text, picture or object to discuss, as some schools do.
Afterwards we talk about what went well and what to try next time. Parents receive a short summary of strengths and focus points. Most children need only a few mock interviews before they feel at ease.
- Realistic format and unfamiliar questions
- Practice for one-to-one and group interviews
- Available in person in West London or online
What Schools Might Ask
Every school is different, but interview questions usually fall into a few broad areas. We practise all of them.
About
You
Your hobbies, what you enjoy at school and what you are proud of.
Books &
Reading
A book you have enjoyed recently and why it stayed with you.
Thinking
Questions
Open puzzles or "what would you do if..." questions.
Your
Questions
Thoughtful questions to ask the school at the end.
Interview Preparation FAQs
It varies by school. Many hold a short one-to-one conversation with a member of staff about the child's interests, reading and school life. Some add a reading passage, a problem to think through, or a group activity.
Coaching makes the format familiar and teaches children to pause, think and answer honestly. Practising with an unfamiliar adult reduces nerves, so your child's real personality comes through on the day.
A mock interview is a realistic practice interview with questions your child has not seen before. It is followed by feedback on what went well and what to work on, so each mock builds confidence.
Usually a few weeks to a couple of months before interviews, which for many independent schools fall in the autumn or winter of Year 6. It works well alongside 11+ exam preparation.
No. Interviewers recognise rehearsed answers quickly. It is better to have a few real examples ready, such as a favourite book or a hobby, and to practise talking about them naturally.
Yes. Interview coaching and mock interviews work well online, and many schools now hold some interviews or assessments remotely too. In-person sessions are available in West London.
Begin the Journey
Interview preparation places are limited during the busy autumn term. Get in touch to discuss your child's schools and interview dates.
Get in TouchPhone: 07463 519812
Location: West London | In-person and online sessions available