"I somehow managed to submit the application, but I'm terrified of the English interview..." "What if my child is rejected because of my poor English?"
For parents preparing for an international school admission, the English interview can feel like the biggest hurdle. However, there's no need to be overly anxious. Schools are not looking for a parent's English fluency, but rather for 'School Fit' and 'Family Cooperation'.
In this article, we provide English answer scripts for the most common questions that make up 80% of the interview, categorized by English proficiency level. Instead of memorizing them, try to adapt them to reflect your own family's values and thoughts.
1. The 3 Core Things International Schools Want to Know About Parents
Interviewers use their questions to confirm three main points. Keeping these in mind will significantly improve the quality of your answers.
- Alignment of Educational Philosophy: Do you understand the school's mission (e.g., inquiry-based learning, independence)? Do you believe that academics are the only thing that matters?
- Support System: Can you support your child with homework, handle school runs, and respond effectively if issues arise?
- Cooperative Attitude: Are you a family that can trust the school and cooperate as a partner? (i.e., not likely to become an overly demanding parent?)
2. [Definitive Guide] Top 3 Most Common Questions and Sample English Answers
Let's look at sample answers for the classic questions you're almost certain to be asked. If you're less confident in English, refer to the 'Simple' answers. If you're more comfortable speaking, use the 'Detailed' examples.
Q1. Tell us about your child's strengths and weaknesses.
"Tell us about your child's strengths and weaknesses."
- Key Point for Answering: Don't present a weakness as a permanent flaw. Instead, frame it positively as something they are 'working on' (a work in progress).
Simple Answer: "He is shy but observant."
Detailed Answer: "He tends to be shy in new environments, but he is very observant and adapts well once he feels comfortable."
- NG Answer: Never say "I don’t know," as it can be interpreted as a lack of interest in your child.
Q2. What are your educational goals for your child?
"What are your educational goals for your child?"
- Key Point for Answering: Incorporating keywords from the school's philosophy (e.g., 'critical thinking,' 'global citizen') shows that you understand and align with their values.
Simple Answer: "We want to raise our child to be a critical thinker and a global citizen."
Detailed Answer: "We hope our child will develop strong critical thinking skills and grow into a compassionate global citizen. We appreciate that your school values these traits."
- NG Answer: "We just want our child to become fluent in English." This can be seen as having a superficial educational philosophy.
Q3. How do you handle discipline at home?
"How do you handle discipline at home?"
- Key Point for Answering: Corporal punishment and yelling are strictly frowned upon in international schools. Emphasize 'communication' and 'positive reinforcement'.
Simple Answer: "We set clear rules at home and use positive reinforcement by praising good behavior."
Detailed Answer: "We encourage open communication and always explain why certain behaviors are unacceptable, focusing on learning from mistakes rather than on punishment."
3. Survival Strategies to Succeed Even if English Isn't Your Strength
There's no need to panic if your mind goes blank or you can't understand a question during the interview. You can use the following phrases to navigate the situation politely.
Asking for Clarification
Using a polite expression is better than simply saying "Pardon?"
- "I’m sorry, could you please rephrase the question?"
- "Would you mind speaking a little slower, please?"
Buying Time to Think
Even if you can't answer immediately, showing that you are thinking is better than silence and demonstrates good communication skills.
- "That’s a good question. Let me think for a moment..."
Passing the Baton to Your Partner (Teamwork)
Don't force yourself to answer alone. Letting the more confident speaker take the lead can be a great way to demonstrate spousal teamwork.
- "My wife is better at explaining this, so I’ll let her answer."
Honestly Expressing Your English Abilities (Humility & Passion)
Rather than hiding your limitations, showing a commitment to learning will be more reassuring to the school.
- "I’m still learning English, but I really wanted to interview here today."
4. A List of 'Reverse Questions' to Impress the Interviewer
When asked, "Do you have any questions for us?" at the end of the interview, this is your chance to shine. Never say, "No, not really." Use it as an opportunity to show your genuine interest in the school.
- "How does the school encourage parental involvement in the school community?" (This shows your willingness to participate in volunteer or PTA activities.)
- "What kinds of support does the school provide for students who struggle?" (This conveys that you are serious about your child's well-being.)
- "Could you tell us about the diversity of the student body?" (This demonstrates your understanding of 'diversity,' a core value for international schools.)
Conclusion: Your English Doesn't Have to Be Perfect
An international school interview is not an English test. What interviewers want to see most is parents who care deeply for their child and are willing to grow alongside the school community.
Use the scripts we've provided as a reference and practice answering in your own words. Even if you stumble or make grammatical mistakes, your passion and sincerity will come through.
For International School Parent Interview Prep, Choose ELT
Using generic sample answers from the internet risks sounding the same as other families and may be perceived as a lack of enthusiasm. In ELT's 'International School Interview Prep Course,' our native instructors will help you create and refine original answer scripts that incorporate your family's unique stories. Why not face the interview with confidence after practicing in a realistic mock interview setting?
