04/08/2026
🇬🇧 Job Interview Tips for a School Lunch Cover / Midday Supervisor Role
I hope these tips help anyone preparing for a school lunch cover interview in the UK!
1. Research the school before your interview
Take a few minutes to look at the school’s website and learn about:
* Their values and mission
* Their safeguarding policy
* The age group of the children
* Any clubs or special activities they offer
This shows that you are interested in working there.
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2. Prepare for common interview questions
Here are some questions you may be asked:
• Tell me about yourself.
• Why do you want to work at this school?
• Why are you interested in this role?
• What experience do you have working with children?
(If you don’t have school experience, talk about looking after children, volunteering, or your own children.)
• How would you encourage good behaviour during lunchtime?
• What would you do if two children were arguing or fighting?
• How would you comfort a child who was upset or crying?
• What would you do if you noticed a child sitting alone?
• What does teamwork mean to you?
• Tell us about a time when you worked under pressure.
• What skills can you bring to this role?
• Tell us about a mistake you made and what you learned from it.
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3. School scenario questions
You may also be asked questions like:
“A child falls over in the playground. What would you do?”
You could answer:
“I would make sure the child was safe, comfort them, and report the incident to the appropriate member of staff. If needed, I would follow the school’s first aid and safeguarding procedures.”
Another example:
“Two children are arguing during lunchtime. What would you do?”
“I would stay calm, separate them if necessary, listen to both children fairly, encourage them to resolve the problem respectfully, and ask for support from another staff member if needed.”
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4. Use the STAR Method
When answering questions about your experience, use the STAR Method:
* S – Situation
* T – Task
* A – Action
* R – Result
Keep your answers clear, simple, and focused.
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5. Prepare questions to ask at the end
It’s always good to ask one or two questions, such as:
* When would the successful candidate be expected to start?
* What training will be provided?
* What does a typical day look like in this role?
* What qualities make someone successful in this position?
* When should I expect to hear back after the interview?
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6. During the interview
* Smile and be friendly.
* Speak clearly and don’t worry if your English isn’t perfect.
* Show that you enjoy working with children.
* Mention that you are reliable, patient, caring, and a good team player.
* Safeguarding and children’s safety are always the school’s top priority.
Most school interviews last around 20–30 minutes.
Good luck with your interview! 🍀
Remember, schools are looking for someone who is kind, calm, reliable, and genuinely cares about children’s wellbeing—not someone who speaks perfect English. Confidence, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn will leave a great impression.
