Mock Interviews 2022
Year 11 pupils practice their interview skills
On Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 January 2022 each of our Year 11 pupils had the opportunity to practice their communication skills in a Mock Interview with a member of the local community.
Although there were no introductory handshakes, we were able to position tables and chairs at sufficient distance in the PLC, our library, to dispense with face coverings for the duration of the interview. Non-verbal communication skills, including eye contact and smiling, are a very important part of making a good first impression.
An interview can be a scary proposition but our young people acquitted themselves well and it was lovely to hear their relief at how well it had gone and what they had learned about the experience!
'The experience was good, the interview went well and I enjoyed dressing smartly. I am pleased to have written a CV.'
'In the lead up to the mock interviews I was anxious but afterwards I realised that I had worked myself up for no reason. It was a lovely experience which increased my self-confidence in talking to someone I didn't know.'
'I thought the mock interviews were a good experience because we dressed up and I have produced a CV which I can update. Overall, it has made me feel more confident for the future.'
'I enjoyed dressing up for the interview and seeing everyone dressed up too. I now have a better understanding of what to expect in future interviews.'
Pupils had the option of wearing an outfit for the day suitable for an office environment. Some commented that they would prefer to wear a suit each day to school rather than school uniform; others were very pleased that they had brought comfortable shoes as well as their interview footwear!
Our thanks to members of the local community, including Cirencester College, Cirencester and Nailsworth Rotary Clubs and our local governing body, who gave their time to come and talk with our young people.
Miss Brace, Assistant Head: 'A massive thank you to everyone who helped and assisted Year 11 in the Mock Interviews. The two mornings were a massive success and our pupils made an excellent impression on the interviewers who were very complimentary about all of the year group.'
We are extremely grateful to the team of volunteers who so kindly took time out of their busy schedules to support our pupils and contribute to helping them prepare for the world beyond school. It was lovely to learn that our pupils presented themselves well and shared their achievements. We hope they will all benefit from the feedback they received and that they will confidently apply these skills in the future.
Chiquita Henson, Headteacher
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