Eight tips to help you prepare for your CELTA interview
1. Try to relax
The CELTA interview isn’t a test. Instead, it’s designed to get to know you. During the interview, you’ll talk about your experience, goals and the course content, so you and your interviewer can be sure it’s the right qualification for you.
2. Review your written application
Your application form will give you a good idea of the kind of areas you’ll be asked about during the interview. Take time to review it ahead of your interview to be fully prepared.
3. Do your research
Do you know what to expect on a CELTA course? There’s lots to consider when taking a course, which is why it’s important to do your research. Here are some questions you could research ahead of your CELTA interview:
- What is an ‘intensive’ course?
- What will you be doing on the course?
- What topics does the course cover?
It’s also a good idea to prepare some good, relevant questions to ask the interviewer. This shows you’re interested and can give you a greater insight into the course.
4. Think about why you want to take CELTA
What do you expect to get out of taking CELTA? Be prepared for your interviewer to ask this question and answer honestly – they just want to understand your real motivation behind taking the course.
5. Consider your reaction to feedback
Receiving feedback can help you develop your skills, identify your strengths, and the areas that you need to practise more. An important part of CELTA is getting feedback from your trainer and fellow trainees, so it’s important to think about how you feel and react to receiving feedback.
6. Reflect on your previous experience of studying
Looking back on your previous experience of studying, what worked well for you and what didn’t? Reflecting on your past school, university or training experiences can help you understand how you learn best. Your interviewer may explore why you’ve chosen a particular type of CELTA course to make sure it’s the most suitable for you.
7. Explore your beliefs about teaching and learning
Our previous experiences play a huge role in our beliefs and views of the world. Whether you’re new to teaching or already have experience, it’s important to think about your beliefs about teaching and learning.
If teaching is a new career path for you, you could think about your experience of being taught by a particular teacher – what worked well and why? Or, if you are already a teacher, what activities and lessons have worked well with your students? Consider what made them successful and how this informs your teaching practice.
8. Get set up online
Many CELTA interviews will be done online. Make sure you are calm and prepared for your interview by checking your speaker and microphone are working, and set yourself up in a place that is quiet and connected to the internet.