Top 7 interview questions to identify great English language teachers

This saying perfectly captures the essence of professionalism in teaching. 

Indeed, finding a teacher who meets all expectations and becomes the ideal candidate is no easy task.

How can you identify whether the person before you has the ability to inspire students and teach effectively? 

The process begins with the interview — a vital opportunity to delve into the candidate’s teaching philosophy, motivation, and level of professionalism.

Let’s take a look at the key questions you should ask to uncover truly great teachers.

This question is among the most important in an interview, as it allows you to uncover the candidate’s true motivations. 

Here, we are not simply seeking a biography. 

Instead, we want to understand why the individual chose this profession and how deeply they appreciate its significance.

For example, if the candidate views teaching as an opportunity to shape the next generation, support children in discovering the world of knowledge, or boost their confidence, it reveals a great deal about their commitment and professionalism.

Holding certifications demonstrates a serious commitment to the profession. 

Obtaining prestigious qualifications such as TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA requires time, effort, and motivation. 

It’s not as easy as it may seem.

Moreover, for those without a formal teaching degree, completing such courses becomes particularly essential.

Online courses are the most convenient and accessible way to obtain a TEFL or TESOL certification. 

Our platform, Grade University, offers a variety of up-to-date courses designed to help you become a certified and highly sought-after English language instructor, ready to work in any location worldwide.

By taking our courses, you can progress at your own pace and schedule. 

Gain unlimited access to an extensive knowledge base filled with essential insights and practical resources, available whenever you need them. 

Take advantage of our demo version to experience the course firsthand and evaluate its value before committing to a purchase.

By asking this question, we aim to understand whether the teacher adheres to traditional or modern methods. We are also interested in which approaches the teacher would like to try implementing, such as CLIL or Task-Based Learning.

This will demonstrate their understanding of the importance of achieving the best outcomes and adapting the teaching process.

It’s common for the level of English in a class to vary significantly among students. 

When the material is focused on the stronger students, those who are weaker may lose motivation and find it increasingly difficult to grasp the main points of the lesson.

A good teacher is able to support students who require more attention, tailor their approach to individual needs, and still teach effectively for the entire group. 

This demonstrates their flexibility and ability to create a comfortable learning environment for all.

Let's agree that almost every teacher is familiar with problematic situations, which occur quite frequently. 

These could range from technical issues, such as when a prepared presentation fails to load, to challenging student behaviour.

They are able to adjust the lesson as needed and remain calm. 

This ability to be flexible and manage unexpected situations in the classroom is a highly valuable trait in a teacher.

This is an excellent question that encourages teachers to reflect on their strengths and identify areas for development.

Each new day offers an opportunity to grow — whether through gaining knowledge, building experience, or discovering practical solutions. 

Teachers are often described as lifelong learners, constantly evolving to stay informed about modern teaching approaches and better support their students.

Achievements can take many forms, ranging from successfully introducing a new methodology to preparing students for international exams with flying colours. 

Encourage the candidate to describe the efforts they invested and the guiding principles they relied on to deliver high-quality and impactful education.

In conclusion, finding a great teacher is no easy task. 

A dedicated educator embodies qualities such as unlocking students' potential, offering support during difficult moments, and motivating them to reach new milestones.

A skilled teacher consistently strives for meaningful results and ensures education is both high-quality and engaging.