For many children, the 11+ interview is just as important as the exam itself. Selective schools use interviews to understand more than academic ability. They want to see confidence, curiosity and how a child might contribute to school life. For families, the interview stage can feel daunting, but with structured preparation it becomes an opportunity for children to show their best selves.
At Dukes Tutoring, we view interview preparation as a natural extension of the 11+ journey. Alongside support in English, maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning, we help children develop the self-assurance and communication skills that make the difference on the day.
Why interviews matter in the 11+ process
Private and selective schools place significant value on their interview process. Examiners look beyond exam scores to see whether a child will thrive in their environment. They want to understand personality, interests and the ability to engage thoughtfully.
The interview also offers children a chance to demonstrate qualities that exams cannot capture, such as creativity, teamwork and resilience. With the right preparation, children approach these conversations with confidence.
Understanding the different types of school interviews
Each school runs interviews in its own way. Some take place one-to-one with a teacher, others involve paired interviews or small groups. Children may also be asked to complete an English oral task, read aloud or discuss a passage.
The key is not to memorise fixed answers, but to practise responding naturally. Preparation builds familiarity with the process so that children know what to expect, whether facing formal questions, group problem-solving or informal conversations.
Common questions and themes
Interview questions are designed to encourage reflection and open discussion. They may include:
- Talking about hobbies, books or recent projects
- Describing favourite subjects and why they enjoy them
- Explaining how they overcame a challenge
- Sharing what they might contribute to school life
- Discussing current events or wider interests
Some schools include scenario-based questions, such as how a child would handle a disagreement in a group. Others may ask about personal goals or role models. While no two interviews are identical, practice helps children think carefully and express ideas clearly.
How preparation builds confidence
At Dukes Tutoring, we believe preparation is about building self-belief rather than rehearsing model answers. Children work with our tutors to:
- Consider likely questions and how to approach them
- Practise speaking aloud in a supportive setting
- Reflect on their own interests, achievements and ambitions
- Explore techniques for staying calm under pressure
This process ensures answers come from the child, not from parents or tutors. By thinking in advance, children avoid being caught off guard and gain the confidence to answer authentically.
Mock interviews and oral practice
An 11+ mock interview is one of the most effective ways to prepare. During these sessions, children practise in conditions that mirror the real experience. They receive feedback on both content and delivery, learning how to speak clearly, maintain focus and show enthusiasm.
We also include an English oral test as part of our preparation, since many schools use this to assess comprehension and verbal reasoning. Practising aloud helps children develop both clarity and pace.
Support for parents
Parents play an important role in the interview journey. While it can be tempting to coach children heavily, the most effective support comes from gentle encouragement. We advise parents to:
- Provide space for children to think through their own answers
- Discuss topics in a relaxed way, such as over dinner or during a walk
- Encourage reading widely and talking about current events
- Offer reassurance rather than correction
Our sessions also share practical tips with parents about managing the interview day itself, from planning travel to encouraging a calm mindset at home.
How interview skills fit into the wider 11+ journey
Interview preparation works best when it complements academic support. Success in the 11+ relies on a combination of strong exam performance and confident communication. At Dukes Tutoring, our 11+ one to one tutoring covers both sides, ensuring that children approach the process with well-rounded preparation.
Building interview skills also benefits children beyond the 11+. The ability to express ideas clearly, listen thoughtfully and engage in discussion supports academic work, future school life and personal growth.
Practical tips for the interview day
The day itself can be nerve-racking, but small routines help children stay calm and focused. Useful strategies include:
- Ensuring plenty of rest the night before
- Eating a balanced breakfast to maintain concentration
- Allowing extra travel time to avoid stress
- Bringing a favourite book or calm activity to read while waiting
- Reminding children that the interview is a conversation, not a test
A positive mindset makes a difference. When children view the interview as an opportunity to share their strengths, they relax and perform with greater confidence.
Building long-term communication skills
The skills developed through interview preparation go far beyond the 11+. Children learn how to:
- Articulate thoughts in a structured way
- Build listening and conversational skills
- Reflect on achievements and set goals
- Approach new situations with resilience
These qualities support both academic learning and personal development. Whether taking part in classroom discussions, giving presentations or meeting new people, confident communication is a lasting strength.
Our approach at Dukes Tutoring
All Year 6 students preparing for independent school exams with Dukes Tutoring benefit from a bespoke interview preparation session. These sessions are designed to be supportive and practical, giving children time to practise and reflect in advance. Feedback from families year after year shows that this guidance is both reassuring and effective.
We combine mock interviews, oral practice and tailored feedback to help children find their voice. By working in a calm, structured way, we ensure that each child approaches their school interviews with confidence and clarity.
We are here to help
If you would like more information about 11+ interview preparation or to book a session, please call 0203 488 0754 or email info@dukestutoring.com. Our team will be happy to guide you through the process and provide tailored support for your child.
