Deputy Principal Interview Questions

The role of Deputy Principal is a position of great responsibility and support for all members of staff. If you have been chosen for an interview, it is a good idea to prepare yourself for the myriad of questions that you may be asked. Put yourself in the position of the interviewer; what is she or he looking for in ‘a next in command’ and how can you show that you have the requisite skills and attributes to be that person. Here are a few questions to help you reflect.

Leading Teaching and Learning

• Can you tell me about a time when you used a curriculum area or other to promote a culture of improvement, collaboration, innovation and creativity in learning, teaching and assessment?

• Tell me about how you work to ensure inclusion, equality of opportunity and the holistic development of pupils.

• How do you go about the management of planning and implementation of a curricular area?

Managing the Organisation

• The role of DP is a busy one. How would you deal with the stresses and strains of the position?

• Can you give me an example of a time when you had to manage a difficult situation? How did you bring this to a satisfactory conclusion?

• If you were to be successful here today and get the job, how would you go about embarking on your new working relationship with other members of staff who went for the same job, but were not successful?

Leading School Development

• As DP you would have to evaluate the Cúntais Mhíosiúla of staff - how would you undertake that task?

• Can you give me an example of an initiative you managed to mediate a change in your school?

Developing Leadership Capacity

• Do you have any experience of leading a group (students, parents or staff) in an initiative? Tell me about it.

• What makes a good leader in your opinion?

• Tell me what makes you a good leader.

Further Exploration

• Interview questions for leadership roles in education

• 7 questions to ask yourself before applying for leadership roles

• Principal Interviews: Domain 4 - Developing Leadership Capacity

• 5 things I learned from a principal

• Insights from a School Principal #3 Catriona Golden

• 50 key questions to ask yourself before you prepare your job application for Assistant Principal, Deputy Principal and Principal roles in education

As in the case of ANY interview; preparation is key. I hope the questions above helped you to get into the frame of mind to face the questions you will be asked.

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