The Ultimate Guide to Preparing Your Child for a School Admission Interview

1. Understand the Purpose of the Interview

First, shift your mindset. The school isn’t just looking for the “smartest” child. They’re looking for a well-rounded individual who will thrive in their environment and contribute positively to their community. They are also evaluating family-school partnership potential.

What the school is really assessing:

• Your child’s personality: Are they curious, engaged, and respectful?
• Social and communication skills: Can they express themselves and listen?
• Family values: Do your educational philosophies align?
• Potential for growth: Are they eager to learn and try new things?

2. How to Prepare Your Child (Without Over-Preparing)

The goal is confidence, not canned responses. You want your child to be authentic, not rehearsed.

A. Practice Common, Open-Ended Questions

Frame practice as a fun game. Ask these questions naturally during car rides or dinner conversations.

• “Tell me about yourself.” Encourage talking about hobbies, family, and what they enjoy learning.
• “What do you like to read?” Have them describe a recent book or story.
• “What are you most proud of?” Academic, athletic, creative, or kind actions count.
• “Why do you want to come to this school?” Focus on genuine reasons: a program, facilities, culture.
• “Do you have any questions for us?” Always prepare one or two simple, authentic questions.

Pro Tip: Use our School Interview Simulator to generate realistic, personalised practice questions and get instant feedback!

B. Focus on Soft Skills

• Eye contact & posture: Practice relaxed body language.
• The magic words: “Please,” “Thank you,” “Nice to meet you.”
• Listening: Let them finish the full question before replying.

C. Keep It Positive

A 10–15 minute chat every few days beats an hour-long cram the night before.

3. How to Prepare Yourself as a Parent

You may also be informally interviewed. Be supportive, informed, and aligned.

A. Anticipate Parent Questions

• “Why did you choose our school?” Be specific: philosophy, programs, culture.
• “How would you describe your child?” Use short illustrative anecdotes.
• “How do you support learning at home?” Reading, curiosity projects, balanced routines.
• “Do you have any questions for us?” Always have one—shows engagement.

B. Do Your Homework

• Explore the school website: mission, values, programs.
• Talk to current parents for cultural insight.
• Prepare 1–2 genuine questions (e.g., support for different learning styles).

4. Before the Interview: Setting the Stage

• Plan the journey: Do a test run to remove uncertainty.
• Choose appropriate attire: Neat, tidy, comfortable.
• Night before: Gather documents, keep evening calm, early rest.
• Day of: Healthy breakfast, leave early, model calm energy.

5. During the Interview: The Game Plan

• Let your child answer: Pause is fine—thinking shows processing.
• Be a united front: Consistent family messaging.
• Stay positive: Never criticise current teachers or schools.
• Be authentic: Fit matters more than performance.

6. After the Interview: The Follow-Up

• Gentle debrief: Ask “What was your favourite part?”
• Thank-you note: A short email (or child’s drawing) within 24 hours shows manners and interest.

Final Thought: It’s a Two-Way Street

You are also interviewing the school. Is this a place where your child will be happy, challenged, and valued? Trust your instincts. With thoughtful preparation, you’ll walk in ready to show them the amazing learner and family you are.