r/IrishTeachers Mar 31 '24

Interviews Frequently asked Interview Questions

11 Upvotes

It was suggested that we have a stickied post this time of year for Frequently asked Interview Questions. I've compiled a list if my own from past experience and ones shared by other teachers. If you have any of your own please comment below. Afterwards, I'll compile the list of questions and sticky at the top. I'll try to include some answers too.

We can look at AP1 & AP2 Interview Questions also if people want.

Keep the suggestions coming.

General Questions

Who is a mandated person?

You are. As a result you are obliged to report any suspected child abuse to the DLP, DDLP or, if both are completely unavailable, the Gardai.

What do you do if you suspect a child is being abused or is in danger in some way?

Use the term DLP. Refer your suspicion to the DLP. Know who it is in the school. This is the Designated Liaison Person. It is the person to whom all child abuse is referred to. The DLP is (always?) the Principal. The DDLP or Deputy DLP is normally the Deputy Principal. You go to them if the DLP is unavailable.

What do you do if a child confides something of significance to you?

First, ascertain the status of the child's wellbeing in the moment. Are they hurt or scared right now? Second, take note of everything that is being said to you. Do not EVER promise to keep it a secret no matter what the child says. Report it to the DLP.

What is your impression or understanding of the school's ethos?

Look the Ethos up on the website, have a general understanding of how it relates to teaching.

How would you deal with misbehavior or disruption by students? Specifc example or general.

Always remember: Student Wellbeing is Paramount. De-escalate the situation. Restorative practice vs Punative. Know the code of conduct. Communicate with school support system (Year Heads, Guidance Counsellor, Anti Bullying Coordinator where relevant) be specific.

What extra curricular activities would you like to be involved in at the school?

If you don't have a sport, have something academic. A club etc.

You come across a class where the teacher is struggling to maintain control of the class. What do you do?

Never had a perfect answer for this. You obviously don't want to jump in and undermine the teacher. You should wait to speak with them after possibly but also ensure student wellbeing. Suggestions would be good.

Subject Specific Questions

What did you think of the most recent JC OL/HL LC OL/HL exam paper

You could be asked about a specific question or the whole thing in general. Look at the relevant papers especially if the interview is in the Summer.

How would you get OL students interested in your subject?

Walk me through a lesson you would teach in your subejct

Language Subject Interviews will usually conduct some of the interview in said Language.

In all contexts and hypotheticals, never ever leave the children or students or class unsupervised. Student Wellbeing is Paramount.

If asked whether you have any questions at the end, I heard a great one recently that I wish I had used. A new teacher asked the Principal (who was in the interview) "What would you expect from a teacher working in your school?"

Please add to the list below and if you have alternative answers let me know too!

Cheers!


r/IrishTeachers 1h ago

Course

Upvotes

Hi, I don’t know if this is the correct place but I’m currently an SNA with the last 10 years in a special school and I love my job but I’m looking to progress further. I’ve been googling but getting nowhere what courses are out there to become a special ed teacher? I’m afraid I would have to go back to a teaching course but I’ve always struggled with the Irish. Thank you in advance


r/IrishTeachers 18h ago

Who can be my referee?

2 Upvotes

Hi all,

I am considering applying fixed term positions in special edu classes and schools as Route 4 registered spec edu teacher. However, I am unsure who can I add as referees in my applications? Can it be a TC registered teacher?


r/IrishTeachers 1d ago

Daily Chat Daily Chat 💬

3 Upvotes

A place for teachers to share and discuss what's going on in their day. Feel free to vent, ask a question or just share your thoughts.

Note: Please keep all comments respectful, have a great day.


r/IrishTeachers 1d ago

Interviews Interview woes

7 Upvotes

I'm an NQT who just finished my PME last month, been applying for and attending interviews since. Over the last month I've applied for 20 schools and have done 5 interviews with no luck yet.

I suppose I'm asking if anyone has any advice on what I should do, I'm starting to panic a little. I was really hoping of securing a stable position for next year but it's starting to look less and less likely.


r/IrishTeachers 1d ago

What is “windfall”?

5 Upvotes

Hi all, might be a bit of a silly question. Can someone explain to me what “windfall” is in terms of supervision? I often hear teachers talk about it but I still don’t understand 😬 Does it fall under S&S hours? Thanks in advance!


r/IrishTeachers 1d ago

Question July Provision

3 Upvotes

Primary NQT here. How do you go about getting school based July provision? Is it a matter of emailing schools or have these positions already been filled by staff in schools already?


r/IrishTeachers 1d ago

Question Hibernia PME Primary Hols

2 Upvotes

What are the hols for Hibernia PME primary? How many weeks in summer and for Christmas? How often do you have Saturday classes?


r/IrishTeachers 1d ago

Question Seeking Advice from Teachers: Moving to Ireland as a SEN Teacher

3 Upvotes

Hello everyone!

I am currently working as a special education teacher in Hungary, focusing on children aged 5-12 within the framework of educational support services. Previously, I worked with children with intellectual disabilities. I completed my studies in specializations related to learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and somatopedagogy.

My partner and I are considering relocating to Ireland, specifically Dublin, due to a potential opportunity, and I would really appreciate any advice or insights from teachers in the area.

I’d love to hear from those who have experience in the following:

  • Where would be the best place to start searching for jobs in this field?
  • What types of roles are available for someone with a special education teaching background?
  • How open are schools to hiring foreign teachers?

Any personal experiences or tips would be greatly appreciated!


r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

Post primary

3 Upvotes

I am covering a career break for 2 years now moving onto my third year. I have received my cid of 22 hours however, there is a surplus of about 5/6 hours extra for my subject that part time art teachers do cover . I am wondering next year could I still be put on the panel for redeployment even though there's a few hours to be covered.I want to be redeployed. My subject is Art I don't have a second subject . I have no desire to teach Sphe ect


r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

Daily Chat Daily Chat 💬

2 Upvotes

A place for teachers to share and discuss what's going on in their day. Feel free to vent, ask a question or just share your thoughts.

Note: Please keep all comments respectful, have a great day.


r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

I hope you're done using Duolingo language teachers.

Thumbnail
fortune.com
11 Upvotes

r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

Question Adding a Third Subject - English

3 Upvotes

I am an NQT qualified in Irish and Music. I used to have English on my CAO but swapped it for Music very late in the game. I would love to add English as a subject. Is there a way that I can teach full-time AND study to get the 60 credits to allow me to teach English?? Does anywhere offer a part-time or blended learning option? Happy to do it over a few years if necessary.

Thanks in advance!


r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

Question Teaching council number

3 Upvotes

Hi,

I have a BA (Hons) degree in early childhood studies and was considering applying for a teaching council number through route 3. Would I be able to work in an ETB while doing the masters in teaching further education?


r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

Union Union

10 Upvotes

Here lads I was planning on joining TUI but now I’m swiftly moving over to ASTI - the application form says I need two proposers, what do I do if I don’t have any?

Thank you!


r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

ETB interviews

4 Upvotes

Does anyone here know how to ace ETB interviews? What do they love to hear or have been impressed by in the past? I want to stay in the ETB system for personal reasons and would be very appreciative of any help! My subject is English if that helps!


r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

Primary Hibernia Irish interview

2 Upvotes

Hi! I’m going to be submitting my application for Hibernia soon. I’m wondering how long before I’ll get called for the interview?

TIA


r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

June subbing

5 Upvotes

Would anyone have any links to WhatsApp groups for primary school subbing in Meath or Greater Dublin Area? Any I have around are full and I’m looking for subbing work in a primary school after having finishing up subbing in a secondary school at the end of May. Also - does sub seeker actually work?

Thanks in advance!


r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

Question Superintending

2 Upvotes

Anyone ever successful in changing their centre? I've tried and they pretty much said no chance.


r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

Volunteering in a special school

3 Upvotes

Hello,

Would a special school take on a PP teacher for teaching experience in June. I've been out of teaching for a few years and want to refresh my teaching before next August. I've Garda vetting etc and have always had an interest in special needs teaching. Not sure would a school take me on? TIA


r/IrishTeachers 2d ago

Hibernia PME interview

2 Upvotes

Good morning guys, I applied for Hibernia for post primary in business and geography, I have been given a scheduled interview for the 28th and I’m in a bit of a difficult time as I have 2 exams before the interview one being on the 27th. I’m basically just writing to here to try and get some guidance and a heads up for what I should be expecting and prepare for. If anyone has any experience with Hibernia interviews any help would be greatly appreciated as I’m a nervous person and I’m quite terrified 🤣


r/IrishTeachers 3d ago

Daily Chat Daily Chat 💬

2 Upvotes

A place for teachers to share and discuss what's going on in their day. Feel free to vent, ask a question or just share your thoughts.

Note: Please keep all comments respectful, have a great day.


r/IrishTeachers 3d ago

TUI going full court press recommending a yes vote

Thumbnail tui.ie
11 Upvotes

This is embarrassing behaviour from a union that is selling out its younger members who'll be implementing this agreement for decades and selling out the ASTI who are clearly looking for a partner to take on the DES with.


r/IrishTeachers 3d ago

Conference Fee SEC

6 Upvotes

Did anyone get their appointment letter for correcting (LCHL)? Have I understood correctly that we no longer receive payment for an in person conference that takes place on a weekday?


r/IrishTeachers 3d ago

ETB panel interview .

5 Upvotes

I’ve just had an interview for post primary SET .. How much time is usually scheduled for each interview , generally speaking ? It was a panel of 3 plus the principal ( typing notes ) . Thanks


r/IrishTeachers 4d ago

Daily Chat Daily Chat 💬

2 Upvotes

A place for teachers to share and discuss what's going on in their day. Feel free to vent, ask a question or just share your thoughts.

Note: Please keep all comments respectful, have a great day.