Use the interview to understand an ordinary working week, not just the school's recruitment pitch. Ask for examples of lessons, schedules and support, and take notes on anything that needs written confirmation.
You do not need to ask every question in one conversation. Start with the issues that would change your decision, then follow up before accepting an offer.
What would I actually teach?
Ask about ages, language levels, class size, lesson length and the curriculum. Find out whether you teach the same learners regularly or move between groups, and what progress the school expects you to assess.
A useful follow-up is: “Could you talk me through one lesson from the materials I would use?” It gives both sides something concrete to discuss.
How does support work?
Ask who you would approach when a lesson is difficult. Find out whether induction includes observation, whether anyone reviews lesson plans and how feedback is given.
If another adult works in the classroom, clarify responsibilities. Who explains instructions when needed? Who handles communication with parents? What happens if that colleague is absent?
What does the full week involve?
Request a sample timetable showing classroom time, preparation, meetings and required attendance. Ask which days are normally off and how schedule changes are communicated.
The working-hours guide helps you distinguish lesson periods from clock hours and identify gaps in a timetable.
What should I ask about the offer and the move?
Resolve the following before making a commitment:
- Which amounts are guaranteed, and which depend on performance or completion?
- Are the quoted figures before or after tax, and does probation change them?
- What is the first pay date?
- What arrival help is included, and who pays each cost?
- Who handles the employer's part of the work-authorization process?
- What must be confirmed before travel and before starting duties?
Keep compensation details in an offer comparison table and relocation responsibilities in a moving checklist.
How should I prepare my own answers?
Choose a few honest examples: explaining something clearly, adapting when an activity failed, receiving feedback and working with other people. If you are new to teaching, use relevant experience without presenting it as classroom employment.
For a demonstration lesson, ask for the learner age, level, duration, materials and assessment criteria. Practise giving short instructions and showing the task. Our first lesson guide provides an example structure.
What should happen after the interview?
Send a concise follow-up listing unresolved questions. Compare the answers with the written offer and ask about any differences. You can also ask whether a conversation with a current teacher is possible; availability and willingness are for that teacher to decide.
If you are exploring Flying English, read the role page first so the conversation can focus on your experience and the details you still need.