Preparing for 11+ and 13+ school interviews is a significant milestone for families aiming for top London day schools or prestigious UK boarding schools. These interviews are not only a gateway to exceptional education but also an opportunity for children to shine as individuals beyond their academic achievements.
From mastering academic examinations to understanding school ethos, navigating the admissions ecosystem can feel overwhelming. But the good news? If you’ve made it to the interview stage, you’ve already cleared a significant hurdle.
In this guide, we provide practical tips and strategies to help your child approach the interview stage with confidence and authenticity, ensuring they make a lasting impression.
Why Are Interviews Important?
The 11+ and 13+ interviews are crucial because they allow schools to:
Gauge personality: Schools want to understand a student’s interests, values, and character.
Assess critical thinking: Beyond rote learning and the school curriculum, they are looking for independent thought and curiosity.
Evaluate fit: Schools aim to find students who align with their ethos and will thrive in their environment.
Understanding the Interview Process
Interviews vary between schools but may include:
One-on-one sessions: Meetings with senior staff.
Group activities: Tasks to assess teamwork and leadership.
Class lessons: Observations of how children engage with peers and tasks.
Pro Tip: You have your list of schools, create a grid of dates and the content at each stage of the entrance exam process. Do your research, speak to parents who experienced the process last year, your tutor, education agent, class teacher/Head of Year/ Head of Next Schools/ Head.
Three Core Tips for Interview Success
1. Be Yourself
Encourage your child to present their genuine self. Schools are looking for real, teachable children, not perfection.
Help them talk confidently about their hobbies, favourite books, and interests. Ensure they truly know what they mention (e.g., avoid claiming to love Wuthering Heights if they can’t name its author or plot!).
Practise answering questions naturally rather than rehearsing overly polished scripts. Authenticity is key.
2. Connect with Confidence
Good social skills can leave a lasting impression. Teach your child to make eye contact, smile, and offer a firm (but not crushing!) handshake.
Practise engaging conversational skills. For example, discuss family trips, interesting news stories, or moral dilemmas.
Group activities often assess teamwork and leadership. Practise scenarios where they can demonstrate collaboration, listening, and initiative.
3. Think Critically
Schools want to see independent thinkers. Encourage your child to express opinions and justify them logically.
Use fun activities to develop this skill. For example:
Analyse a famous quote or piece of art.
Discuss how to make a science experiment a fair test.
Debate moral questions like, “Is it okay to steal from the rich to help a charity?”
These exercises can be done as a family and help your child think on their feet.
How to Prepare for the Big Day
Before the Interview
Research the school: Know its headteacher’s name, facilities, and unique offerings.
Dress appropriately: Choose for smart but comfortable attire. Avoid distractions that might be tempting to fiddle with or tech gadgets (ensure smartwatches are silenced!).
Focus on wellbeing: Ensure your child is well-rested, hydrated, and has eaten a balanced meal. Make sure you've factored a trip to the loo!
During the Interview
Stay calm under pressure: Teach stress management techniques like deep breathing or visualising success.
Engage fully: Smile, good handshake, make eye contact, and listen carefully to questions. If unsure, it’s okay to ask for clarification.
Leave a positive impression: Remind them to thank the interviewer.
Activities to Practise at Home
Role Play:
Simulate interview scenarios where parents act as interviewers - although this can feel comfortable, it is good to experiment with an unfamiliar face.
Include unexpected questions to develop quick thinking.
Group Tasks:
Practice working on group challenges like building a structure with limited materials, designing a town or discussing a moral dilemma.
Stimulus-Based Questions:
Give your child a piece of poetry, historical source, science data, artwork, or an object and ask them to respond. For example:
“What does this painting make you think about?”
Look at our poetry blog for guidance on how to respond to a poetry task.
“How would you describe this object to an alien?”
Pro Tip: Common Interview Questions
Personal and Background
What are your favourite and least favourite subjects, and why?
Tell me about your hobbies or interests.
What would you do with a free afternoon?
School-Focused
Why do you want to attend this school?
How would your friends or teachers describe you?
What would you change if you were headteacher for a day?
Critical Thinking and General Knowledge
What is the point of learning history?
Tell me about a recent news story that interested you.
If you could solve one world problem, what would it be and why?
Key Takeaways - 11+ School Interview Tips
The interview stage is an opportunity for your child to stand out by showcasing their unique personality and potential. Remind them that schools are not just evaluating students, they are also ensuring a good fit for their environment.
By preparing thoughtfully and practising essential skills, they can confidently approach the process and make a lasting impression.
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At Fortis Education, we support families through tailored interview preparation workshops and sessions. We’re here to guide you every step of the way, providing both academic and emotional support. Let’s help your child shine and secure a place in their dream school. Contact us today to book your spot in our in-person or online sessions or if you have any questions.
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