The Early Years Apprentice role is a vital entry point for anyone looking to build a career in childcare. These roles are designed to give hands-on experience in supporting young children’s learning, development, and wellbeing, while completing accredited training. As an Early Years Apprentice, you’ll assist qualified staff, implement activities, and ensure a safe, nurturing environment for children. Typically, these roles offer a salary of £12,000–£18,000 per year, with opportunities to progress into Level 3 Early Years Educator positions or beyond.
Preparing thoroughly for your interview is crucial. Employers are looking for candidates who are compassionate, organised, reliable, and keen to learn. With over 25 years of experience as a career coach, I, Jerry Frempong, have seen countless candidates succeed when they approach their Early Years Apprentice interviews with preparation, confidence, and a clear understanding of the role. This guide provides 25 fully explained interview questions and answers, along with practical coaching tips to help you shine.
Sample Opening Questions and Answers
1. Tell me about yourself.
This is a common opener. Keep it brief, relevant, and positive. Highlight your experience with children, your enthusiasm for learning, and your long-term career goals.
Sample Answer:
“I’ve always loved working with children and have experience helping in a local nursery while studying. I enjoy creating engaging activities and supporting children’s development, and I’m excited to gain hands-on experience as an Early Years Apprentice while learning from qualified staff.”
2. Why do you want to work in childcare?
Focus on your passion for supporting children’s growth and your long-term ambitions.
Sample Answer:
“I am passionate about helping children develop key social and learning skills in a safe and nurturing environment. I enjoy seeing them grow and thrive and believe this apprenticeship will help me gain the knowledge and experience I need for a career in childcare.”
3. What do you know about our childcare centre?
Research the centre beforehand. Mention values, curriculum, and ethos.
Sample Answer:
“I know that your centre follows the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, promoting play-based learning, and encourages positive relationships between children, staff, and parents. I admire your commitment to supporting each child’s unique development.”
Competency Questions and Answers
Competency questions assess how you behave in different situations. The STAR model—Situation, Task, Action, Result—is ideal for structuring your answers.
4. Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team.
Sample Answer using STAR:
Situation: “During my time volunteering at a local nursery, we had to organise a craft activity for a group of 20 children.”
Task: “I was responsible for preparing materials and assisting children during the activity.”
Action: “I worked closely with the team to ensure everything ran smoothly and helped children who needed extra support.”
Result: “The activity was completed on time, all children were engaged, and my manager praised our teamwork.”
5. Describe a time you handled a challenging child.
Sample Answer using STAR:
Situation: “A child in my care was upset and refused to join the group activity.”
Task: “I needed to calm the child and encourage participation without disrupting others.”
Action: “I gently spoke to the child, understood their feelings, and offered an alternative activity that gradually involved the group.”
Result: “The child joined the group happily, and I learned the importance of patience and empathy.”
6. How do you handle stressful situations?
Sample Answer:
“I stay calm by prioritising tasks and focusing on what I can control. For example, when multiple children need attention simultaneously, I assess the situation, ask for help if needed, and address each child individually, ensuring everyone feels supported.”
7. Give an example of when you showed initiative.
Sample Answer using STAR:
Situation: “During a nursery observation session, I noticed a child struggling with a puzzle.”
Task: “I wanted to encourage the child without taking over.”
Action: “I provided subtle hints and praise for each step they completed.”
Result: “The child successfully completed the puzzle and gained confidence in problem-solving.”
8. How do you ensure children’s safety?
Sample Answer:
“I always follow safeguarding procedures, monitor children closely, and maintain a safe environment. I also make sure equipment is checked regularly and report any hazards promptly.”
Behavioural and Situational Questions
9. What would you do if a child refuses to follow instructions?
Sample Answer:
“I would remain calm, offer clear explanations, and provide choices to give the child a sense of control. I would also praise positive behaviour to encourage compliance without causing distress.”
10. How would you support a child with additional needs?
Sample Answer:
“I would learn about their specific needs, follow individual care plans, and adapt activities to ensure inclusion. Communication with colleagues and parents is key to supporting their development effectively.”
11. How do you motivate children to participate in activities?
Sample Answer:
“I make activities fun, relate them to the children’s interests, and provide praise and encouragement. I also allow children to have input in activities to increase engagement.”
12. How would you deal with a parent who disagrees with your approach?
Sample Answer:
“I would listen carefully, remain respectful, and explain the reasoning behind my approach. I would also seek guidance from senior staff if necessary, ensuring a professional and collaborative resolution.”
Knowledge-Based Questions
13. What is the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)?
Sample Answer:
“The EYFS is the framework that sets standards for learning, development, and care of children from birth to five. It covers areas such as communication, physical development, personal, social, and emotional development, and ensures every child reaches their full potential.”
14. Can you explain safeguarding in childcare?
Sample Answer:
“Safeguarding means protecting children from harm, abuse, and neglect. This includes following policies, reporting concerns, maintaining a safe environment, and promoting children’s wellbeing at all times.”
15. How do you support children’s emotional development?
Sample Answer:
“I provide a nurturing environment, model positive behaviour, encourage children to express their feelings, and offer support through listening and structured activities.”
Practical Scenario Questions
16. What would you do if two children are fighting?
Sample Answer:
“I would intervene calmly, separate the children, listen to each side, and help them resolve the conflict using words. Afterwards, I would reinforce positive behaviour and explain why sharing and taking turns is important.”
17. How would you manage a noisy classroom?
Sample Answer:
“I would use clear instructions, signals, and structured activities to regain control. Maintaining routines and positive reinforcement encourages children to follow expectations.”
18. How do you plan activities for different age groups?
Sample Answer:
“I consider developmental stages, interests, and abilities, ensuring activities are age-appropriate, engaging, and adaptable. I also plan for individual support and group interaction.”
Closing Questions and Answers
19. Why should we hire you?
Sample Answer:
“I’m enthusiastic, reliable, and passionate about childcare. My willingness to learn, combined with practical experience and a strong understanding of children’s needs, makes me a strong candidate for this apprenticeship.”
20. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Sample Answer:
“I hope to progress to a Level 3 Early Years Educator role, gaining more responsibility and expertise, while contributing positively to children’s development.”
21. Do you have any questions for us?
Sample Questions:
“What training opportunities do you provide for apprentices?”
“How does the team support professional development?”
“Can you describe a typical day for an Early Years Apprentice here?”
Do’s and Don’ts for Your Interview
Do:
Research the childcare centre.
Arrive on time and dress professionally.
Use the STAR model for competency questions.
Show enthusiasm, patience, and empathy.
Ask insightful questions about the role.
Maintain good eye contact and body language.
Don’t:
Criticise previous employers or colleagues.
Lie about experience.
Interrupt the interviewer.
Be negative about challenges.
Forget to follow up after the interview.
Final Interview Coaching Tips
Preparation is everything. Practising sample questions aloud can improve your confidence and delivery. Remember, employers are not just assessing knowledge—they want to see your attitude, empathy, and willingness to learn. Use interview training to practise scenarios, understand the STAR model, and refine your answers. Working with an interview coach can also provide personalised feedback and boost your confidence before your interview. For flexible options, consider interview coaching online, which allows you to improve from the comfort of your home.
By using the tips in this guide, researching the role, and practising with a focus on competency and behavioural questions, you’ll be able to present yourself as a professional, caring, and committed Early Years Apprentice candidate. Whether answering opening questions, handling competency-based scenarios, or concluding with your own questions, remain optimistic and authentic.
To maximise your success, you can explore job interview preparation sessions or work with an interview coach for tailored advice: Interview Training. Investing in expert interview coaching ensures you approach your Early Years Apprentice interview with confidence and clarity.
Your career in childcare starts here. Book your interview coaching online today and step into your role with confidence!
