Preparing for a sixth-form interview can be a pivotal moment in your child’s educational journey. As parents, you play a crucial role in helping them succeed. This guide will walk you through practical steps to support your child in preparing for their sixth form interview, ensuring they approach it with confidence and poise.
Understanding the Purpose of the Interview
A sixth-form interview is a short meeting with someone from your prospective sixth form college. This meeting allows the school to learn more about the student, while also giving the student the opportunity to ask questions and gain more information about their intended courses. A successful interview can result in an official offer to complete A-levels or equivalent qualifications at the sixth form.
Key Points:
- Dual Purpose: The interview assesses whether the student will be a motivated and community-minded member of the sixth form and also allows the student to determine if the school is the right fit for them.
- Informal Atmosphere: While relatively informal, the interview is crucial for making a good impression.
Research the School and Courses
Encourage your child to research the school and the courses they are interested in. This shows a genuine interest and can provide valuable talking points during the interview. Together, you can explore the school’s website, prospectus, and any available online reviews. Pay attention to the school’s ethos, extracurricular activities, and any recent achievements or news.
Tips for Research:
- Visit the School’s Website: Look for information about the school’s values, mission, and specific course details.
- Read the Prospectus: Many schools offer detailed prospectuses that outline the courses, facilities, and opportunities available.
- Attend Open Days: If possible, attend open days or virtual tours. These events provide a deeper insight into the school environment.
Practice Common Interview Questions
Practising common interview questions can help your child feel more prepared and less anxious. Conduct mock interviews at home to give them a chance to articulate their thoughts and build confidence.
Common Interview Questions:
1. Why are you interested in attending this sixth form/college?
- Interviewers want to see that you have done your research and thought about the school’s suitability for your goals and needs. Mention any good results, mature environment, personal approach, specialist UCAS advice, or enrichment programmes.
2. What subjects are you interested in studying and why?
- Ensure your motivations are clear, whether based on enjoyment or long-term plans. Be open to their advice and confident in asking questions.
3. What kind of professions/fields do your family work in? Do they support your potential aims?
- This helps interviewers understand your influences and the support you might have for your studies.
4. Do you already have some universities in mind?
- This indicates your ambitions and preferences. Specialist UCAS advising and support will be available if you are unclear.
5. What’s your biggest achievement to date? What are you most proud of?
- Relate this to education or extracurricular activities to demonstrate strengths and characteristics.
6. How would your teachers/friends/parents describe you?
- Highlight your best traits, such as determination, motivation, teamwork, punctuality, and meeting deadlines.
7. What can you bring to our sixth form/college?
- Emphasize how you can contribute to the student body, academic enrichment, and community initiatives.
8. What do you enjoy doing outside of school?
- Share your interests and personal attributes that might apply to your studies.
9. What are your long-term goals? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
- Show that you have thought about your future career plans, even if they are broad.
10. Do you have any questions you would like to ask?
- Demonstrate your interest in the sixth form and ensure it’s a good fit for you.
Focus on Presentation and Body Language
First impressions matter. Discuss the importance of presentation and body language with your child. This includes dressing appropriately, making eye contact, and demonstrating good posture.
Presentation Tips:
- Dress Smartly: Choose attire that is professional yet comfortable. A smart casual dress code is advised.
- Maintain Eye Contact: Encourage your child to make eye contact during the interview, which shows confidence and engagement.
- Positive Body Language: Teach them to sit up straight, smile, and nod in agreement when appropriate.
Encourage a Positive Mindset
A positive mindset can greatly influence the outcome of the interview. Encourage your child to stay calm, be themselves, and approach the interview as a conversation rather than an interrogation.
Mindset Tips:
- Stay Calm: Practice deep breathing exercises to manage anxiety.
- Be Yourself: Authenticity is key. Remind your child that the interviewers want to get to know the real them.
- View as a Learning Experience: Regardless of the outcome, the interview is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Prepare Practicalities
Ensure all practical aspects are taken care of well in advance. This includes knowing the date, time, and location of the interview, as well as arranging transportation and gathering any necessary documents.
Practical Tips:
- Confirm Details: Double-check the interview schedule and location.
- Plan Transportation: Ensure there is a clear plan for getting to the interview on time.
- Gather Documents: Collect any required documents, such as academic records, letters of recommendation, or identification.
Role Play and Feedback
Conducting role plays can be incredibly beneficial. Simulate the interview environment at home and provide constructive feedback.
Role Play Tips:
- Simulate the Environment: Create a quiet space that mimics the interview setting.
- Act as the Interviewer: Ask your child the questions they might face and observe their responses.
- Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback on their answers, body language, and overall presentation.
Encourage Extracurricular Involvement
Extracurricular activities can set your child apart from other candidates. Encourage them to participate in activities that align with their interests and strengths. This not only enriches their personal development but also provides valuable talking points during the interview.
Extracurricular Tips:
- Join Clubs and Societies: Participation in school clubs, sports teams, or community groups can be impressive.
- Pursue Hobbies: Encourage hobbies that demonstrate dedication, such as playing a musical instrument, volunteering, or coding.
- Take on Leadership Roles: If possible, your child should seek leadership positions or responsibilities within their activities.
Post-Interview Reflection
After the interview, it’s helpful to reflect on the experience. Discuss what went well and areas for improvement. This reflection can be valuable for future interviews and personal growth.
Reflection Tips:
- Discuss the Experience: Have a conversation about how your child felt during the interview.
- Identify Strengths: Highlight what they did well.
- Consider Improvements: Discuss any challenges faced and how to overcome them in the future.
How can Educate Excellence help?
Here at Educate Excellence we provide support for both parents and children when preparing for sixth form interviews. If you need help with preparation, please contact our PLOs who will be happy to provide advice where they can.
Preparing for a sixth-form interview can be a rewarding process that fosters personal growth and readiness for the next stage of education. By following these steps, you can help your child present themselves confidently and authentically. Remember, the goal is not only to secure a place at the sixth form but also to help your child develop skills that will benefit them throughout their academic and professional life.
