Tell Me About Yourself: Teacher Interview Question 5 Sample Answers

Tell Me About Yourself Teacher Interview Question & Sample Answer

This post forms part of our series on teacher recruitment. One of the questions you can almost guarantee being asked is a variation on “Tell me about yourself”. In 2025 schools are continuing to face significant challenges in recruitment. However, they are unlikely to be willing to reduce the standard of the teachers they will recruit. Therefore it is still essential you do your best in the interview.

Similar Questions/Variations on “Tell me about yourself?”

• “I have your education and experience information in front of me, but tell me more about your academic journey and personal background related to teaching.”
• “Walk me through your academic history and experiences, as they relate to your passion for education.”
• “I’d love to hear more about your journey and how it has led you to pursue a career in education.”
• “Tell me a little bit more about your educational background and experiences, and how they have shaped your interest in working in a school setting.”

The questions mentioned above serve a specific purpose during the interview process. They are not meant to extract a detailed account of your personal life or mundane information like your Saturday night. Instead, these questions serve as an icebreaker to help the interviewer understand your background and career journey.

By responding thoughtfully, you provide the interviewer with an initial sense of who you are and your motivation for pursuing a career in education. This information helps the interviewer determine what areas to focus on during the rest of the interview.

These questions present a valuable opportunity to make a strong first impression and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position. Answering them honestly and confidently is crucial to make a lasting impression.

How To Answer to “Tell Me About Yourself” as a Teacher.

The past: My background includes [educational qualifications and relevant work experiences]. I started my career in [previous teaching roles], where I developed a strong foundation in [relevant skills and expertise]. My passion for teaching and making a difference in students’ lives led me to pursue a career in teaching.

The present: Currently, I am a [current role or position] at [current school or institution], where I have achieved [top accomplishments in your current role]. I have developed a reputation for [positive attributes, such as being reliable, dedicated, innovative, or inspiring], which I believe sets me apart from other candidates. I have learnt a lot about myself as a teacher including my “why” and how I can develop further.

The future: Looking ahead, I am keen to take on new challenges and continue my professional development. The reason I am interested in this teaching position is because [list specific reasons, such as the school’s reputation, the student body, or the opportunity to make a difference in a particular area]. I am confident that my background and experiences make me an ideal candidate for this role, and I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute to the school’s mission and goals.

Sample Answer to “Tell me about yourself”

This is not an answer you should memorise but you can prepare some key points. When asked about this I always recommend practicing at least an opening line to get you into the flow of answering questions. One I have used that I got from a youtube video many years ago is “We have something in common…..”. Sounds a bit cheesy typed out but you get the idea.

Tell Me About Yourself Teacher Interview: Sample Answer

In response to the teacher interview question, “Tell me about yourself,” I would like to share a brief overview of my professional journey, highlighting my qualifications, experiences, and achievements that are relevant to this position and your school.

Starting with my educational background, I pursued a degree in [Your Field of Study], which laid the foundation for my career. Over the years, I have gained valuable experience working in various schools, such as [Job Titles]. These experiences have allowed me to develop key skills, including [Relevant Skills], which I believe make me a strong candidate for this position.

Currently, I am teaching in…., where I have been able to [Achievements or Responsibilities]. I am passionate about my work because [Reason for Passion], and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my teaching skills and experience to [School Name].

In the future, I envision myself continuing to grow and develop within education. I believe that joining your school would provide the perfect environment for that growth. I am particularly drawn to [School Name] because of its [school’s Unique Features or Values], which align with my own professional goals and values.

Throughout my career, I have always maintained a positive attitude and focused on fostering strong relationships with my colleagues and stakeholders. I am confident that my combination of skills, experiences, and passion for education make me an ideal candidate.

Sample Answer for a Special School Teacher Position:

“Tell me about yourself.”

In response to this question, I’d like to outline my background and how it aligns with the needs of your special school. I hold a degree in Special Education from [University Name], which has equipped me with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for teaching students with diverse learning needs.

My career began at [Previous School], where I worked as a Classroom Assistant before progressing to a Special Needs Teacher for the past [Number] years. Here, I have specialised in working with students who have autism and ADHD, employing strategies like [Specific Strategies or Methods] to cater to their unique educational requirements. I’ve successfully led my class to achieve [Achievement or Improvement in Students], which I consider one of my greatest professional accomplishments.

Currently, I am employed at [Current School], where I’ve been instrumental in developing individualised education plans that respect and nurture each student’s abilities and challenges. My passion for special education stems from the profound impact I see in students’ lives when they are given the right support to thrive.

I am particularly attracted to your school due to its commitment to [A Specific Aspect of the School, e.g., inclusive education or innovative teaching methods]. I am eager to bring my experience in adaptive teaching strategies and my dedication to fostering a supportive learning environment to [School Name].

Looking forward, I aim to continue my professional development, perhaps by focusing on [Future Educational Goal or Training], which I believe would further enhance my contribution to your team. My approach always involves a strong emphasis on teamwork, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Sample Answer for an Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Teacher Position:

“Tell me about yourself.”

I’d like to share a bit about my background and why I believe I’m well-suited for this EYFS role. I graduated with a Bachelor of Education from [University Name], specialising in Early Childhood Education. This has given me a strong foundation in child development, which is crucial for teaching young learners.

My teaching journey started at [Previous School], where I was an EYFS teacher for [Number] years. During this time, I honed my skills in creating engaging, play-based learning environments, understanding that for young children, play is the primary vehicle for learning. Here, I introduced a programme that significantly improved [Specific Improvement, e.g., literacy skills or social interaction], which I am very proud of.

At my current position in [Current School], I’ve been leading the EYFS department, focusing on curriculum development that aligns with the latest EYFS framework. I’m passionate about early education because I’ve seen firsthand how these formative years shape a child’s lifelong learning attitude and capability.

I’m drawn to [School Name] because of your emphasis on [School’s Noteworthy Aspect, e.g., outdoor learning or parent involvement]. I believe my experience, coupled with my enthusiasm for fostering curiosity and confidence in young learners, will be an asset here.

In the future, I hope to lead initiatives that further integrate community resources into our early years education, enhancing our curriculum. My philosophy is built on patience, creativity, and a deep respect for each child’s unique pace and style of learning. I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and growing with [School Name].

Sample Answer for a Primary School Teacher Position

“Tell me about yourself.”

I have been dedicated to primary education for the last [Number] years, having completed my PGCE with a focus on inclusive education. My teaching career began at [Previous School], where I taught Year 3 and was deeply involved in promoting inclusion.

I’ve always believed that every child deserves an education tailored to their unique needs. At [Current School], I’ve implemented strategies like differentiated instruction and peer support systems that not only cater to students with special educational needs but also enrich the learning experience for all pupils. I spearheaded a project that integrated students with learning difficulties into mainstream activities, significantly enhancing classroom cohesion and academic outcomes.

My passion for inclusion is fuelled by witnessing the profound growth in students when they feel valued and included. Your school’s commitment to an inclusive environment aligns perfectly with my teaching philosophy. I am eager to contribute to and learn from a team that prioritises every child’s success.

Sample Answer for a Secondary School Teacher Position

“Tell me about yourself.”

I’ve spent [Number] years in secondary education, beginning with my degree in [Subject] from [University Name] followed by a PGCE. My career has been focused on not just delivering content but ensuring that students achieve tangible qualifications that open doors for their future.

At [Previous School], I was instrumental in preparing students for [Specific Examinations or Accreditations like GCSEs, A-Levels, BTECs]. I developed a revision programme that increased our pass rates by [Percentage], particularly in [Subject]. I pride myself on creating engaging lessons that align with exam specifications, ensuring students not only learn but excel in their assessments.

Currently, at [Current School], I’ve led our department to achieve one of the highest accreditation rates in the region for [Accreditation]. My approach involves continuous professional development, staying updated with curriculum changes, and employing innovative teaching methods like flipped classrooms to prepare students effectively.

I am drawn to [School Name] because of your reputation for academic excellence and commitment to student success in accreditations. I look forward to bringing my experience in exam preparation and my passion for [Subject] to your team, helping students secure their futures through recognized qualifications.