So, you’ve submitted your application to teach with us and have now been asked to complete a video interview—it’s time to shine! This is your chance to help Queensland state schools see how you could be the perfect fit for their community and inspire the next generation of learners. We want to see your skills, experience and passion for teaching.
What is a pre-recorded interview?
Pre-recorded interviews are one-way recordings of applicants answering set questions. They’re a key part of our application process and your chance to make a positive first impression. The best part? You only need to record your responses once, and they’ll be able to be reviewed alongside your resume and application, by our recruitment team and school leaders as suitable vacancies become available.
Think of it as your ‘virtual cover letter’—a way for schools to understand your communication style, passion for teaching and how you align with their needs and values.
What does the pre-recorded interview entail?
The interview takes 15 to 30 minutes and includes three questions. You’ll have two minutes to preview each question and up to two minutes to record your response.
How to prepare
While you won’t know the exact questions in advance, take some time to reflect on:
- what motivates you to teach
- your key experiences in the classroom, including your professional experience placements
- how your teaching practice has evolved to meet the diverse needs of students and
- how you demonstrate Queensland state school values like equity, inclusion and respect for diversity.
‘Think about examples that show your passion, adaptability and genuine commitment to helping students succeed. This will help demonstrate your ability to inspire learning, build solid relationships and contribute meaningfully within the school community,’ Bex Newcome, one of our Principal Teacher Recruitment Consultants, recommends.
What technology you’ll need
Before you start, check your tech set up to avoid last-minute issues. You’ll receive a link via email to check your setup in advance.
You’ll need:
- A device with a working camera and microphone (laptop, desktop, tablet, or phone).
- Strong, reliable internet connection.
- A quiet, distraction-free environment.
For desktop users, a good-quality webcam is ideal. If your audio isn’t clear, use earphones with a built-in microphone to minimise echo. Make sure your browser is up to date—use Chrome on PC/Android or Safari on Mac/iOS.
If you have limited internet access, try reducing other internet usage during the recording to maintain video quality. Should you encounter technical difficulties, our Teacher Recruitment Team can help. Their contact details will be on the email you receive with the link to the online interview platform.
What happens next?
Our recruiters will share your interview and resume with school hiring managers, such as Principals and Heads of Department, to help them get a sense of who you are, how you communicate, your enthusiasm for teaching and the strengths you’d bring to the school community.
‘Each Queensland state school is unique, so what a school is looking for may vary depending on the role and local needs. Our recruiters will aim to match your professional profile with roles that suit your strengths and align with a school’s specific needs. If there’s a match, we’ll contact you to discuss the opportunity and the next steps,’ shares Katrina, Director Teacher Recruitment.
Final check
Choose a quiet space, let others know you’re recording, close doors and windows, silence notifications and keep interruptions to a minimum.
Lights, camera, interview!
Present yourself in the best light—literally! Sit near natural light or use two lamps to light your face evenly. Avoid backlighting and position yourself in front of a clean, neutral background to keep the focus on you.
Camera positioning is key
Position your camera at eye level or slightly above for the most professional angle. Use a tripod or secure your device to keep it steady. Sit up straight, look directly into the camera lens, and smile—it helps you appear confident and approachable.
A clean and uncluttered background helps keep the focus on you. Position yourself in front of a neutral space to avoid distractions. While the recording software allows you to blur your background, it’s always best to ensure your surroundings look professional.
What to wear
As with any professional interview, dressing appropriately is important.
Bex recommends that you ‘choose an outfit that you’d wear to an in-person interview, such as business attire. Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable while still reflecting the professional image you want to project.’
Let your passion for teaching shine
Your pre-recorded interview is your chance to share what makes you a great teacher – your experiences, your approach and the difference you make for students. It’s a relaxed way for schools to see your personality and understand what you could bring to their community.
Our final advice? Speak from the heart. Your passion for teaching will come through naturally.
We can’t wait to see you bring your passion and expertise to Queensland state schools. Good luck, and don’t forget to check your email for updates from our Teacher Recruitment Team!