The role of an Activities Coordinator at Anchor Care Homes is one of the most rewarding and dynamic positions within the care sector. It is not just about planning events or scheduling activities—it’s about enhancing the quality of life of residents, fostering meaningful social connections, and creating an environment where people feel valued, stimulated, and engaged. An Activities Coordinator acts as a bridge between care teams, residents, and families, ensuring that everyone feels included and supported.
The job description typically involves organising daily, weekly, and monthly activities tailored to the physical, emotional, and cognitive needs of residents. This includes anything from arts and crafts, games, and fitness classes, to themed events, music therapy sessions, and community outings. Strong communication, creativity, and empathy are essential qualities.
In terms of salary, the average Activities Coordinator at Anchor Care Homes in the UK can expect to earn between £20,000 and £24,000 per year, depending on experience and location. But more importantly, the role provides immense personal fulfilment through improving the lives of older people.
As an experienced interview coach of more than 25 years, I know that excelling in this interview requires confidence, preparation, and a clear ability to demonstrate both passion and practical skills. In this blog, I’ll walk you through 25 commonly asked interview questions and model answers, using the STAR model where appropriate. You’ll also find insider tips on interview do’s and don’ts, plus strategies for job interview preparation that can give you the edge.
Sample Opening Questions and Answers
1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
Answer: “I have over five years of experience working within the care sector, particularly with older people. I’ve always been passionate about building meaningful activities that improve wellbeing, whether through art workshops, exercise sessions, or music events. I’m a strong communicator, enjoy collaborating with teams, and I take pride in seeing residents engage and smile as a result of activities I’ve developed.”
2. Why do you want to work as an Activities Coordinator at Anchor Care Homes?
Answer: “I admire Anchor Care Homes’ reputation for putting residents’ wellbeing at the centre of care. I’m drawn to your focus on personalised care and meaningful engagement. I want to use my creativity and organisational skills to design activities that reflect residents’ interests, support their independence, and promote positive mental health.”
Competency-Based Questions Using STAR
3. Can you describe a time when you organised a successful event or activity?
Answer (STAR):
Situation: “In my previous role at a care home, residents expressed a desire for a summer garden party.”
Task: “I was responsible for designing, planning, and delivering the event.”
Action: “I worked with colleagues to arrange catering, coordinated volunteers, booked local musicians, and created adapted activities for residents with mobility issues.”
Result: “Over 50 residents attended, families joined in, and we received outstanding feedback. Residents said it made them feel part of a community, which was the outcome I wanted.”
4. How do you adapt activities for residents with varying abilities and needs?
Answer: “I always start with a resident-centred approach. I talk to staff, residents, and families to understand individual preferences and limitations. For example, if some residents cannot participate physically, I adapt activities so they can engage through sensory experiences, music, or storytelling. This ensures inclusivity and maximises participation.”
Other Key Interview Questions and Answers for Anchor Care Homes Activities Coordinator Role
5. What skills make you an effective Activities Coordinator?
Answer: “Creativity, patience, communication, empathy, and organisational skills. I balance planning structured schedules with being flexible when residents’ needs change. I’m also confident in liaising with external organisations, volunteers, and families.”
6. How do you handle resistance from a resident who doesn’t want to participate?
Answer: “I respect their choice, but I gently explore whether they’d like a smaller or alternative activity. I avoid pressuring them, but I make sure they know they’re always welcome to join. Over time, many residents choose to get involved once trust builds.”
7. Can you give an example of a time you worked as part of a team to deliver an activity?
Answer: “I collaborated with the nursing staff to introduce chair-based yoga sessions. I consulted physiotherapists to ensure safety and adapted movements for different abilities. The teamwork made the sessions safe, inclusive, and enjoyable.”
8. How do you incorporate residents’ personal histories into activities?
Answer: “Life stories are powerful. I use reminiscence therapy, music from residents’ eras, or themed days reflecting their past careers or hobbies. This personal touch makes activities more meaningful and engaging.”
9. What would you do if an activity didn’t go as planned?
Answer: “Flexibility is key. If attendance is low, I adapt on the spot—perhaps turning the activity into a small group discussion or one-on-one engagement. I always reflect afterward to learn and improve for next time.”
10. How do you measure the success of your activities?
Answer: “I observe residents’ engagement levels, gather feedback from staff and families, and review participation rates. Smiles, laughter, and positive feedback are clear indicators. I also use care documentation to record how activities contribute to wellbeing goals.”
Behavioural and Situational Questions
11. Describe a time you had to resolve a conflict during an activity.
Answer (STAR):
Situation: “Two residents disagreed during a card game.”
Task: “I needed to calm tensions and restore harmony.”
Action: “I gently mediated, acknowledged both perspectives, and redirected focus onto a cooperative group game.”
Result: “The conflict diffused, and both residents enjoyed the remainder of the session.”
12. How would you encourage residents who are shy or withdrawn?
Answer: “I would build rapport in one-on-one conversations, learning about their interests. Then I’d gradually invite them to small group activities that reflect those interests, ensuring they feel comfortable without pressure.”
13. How do you prioritise your workload when you have multiple activities to plan?
Answer: “I use a weekly planner, prioritise based on residents’ needs and preferences, and delegate where appropriate. Flexibility allows me to adjust while ensuring high-quality delivery.”
14. Tell me about a time you introduced a new idea or innovation.
Answer: “I introduced a digital reminiscence app with old photographs and music playlists. Residents responded positively, and it became a regular activity that encouraged memory recall and social interaction.”
15. What role do families play in your activities programme?
Answer: “Families bring valuable insight into residents’ lives. I involve them in planning events, ask for suggestions, and invite them to participate in celebrations. This strengthens community ties.”
Knowledge and Practical Skills Questions
16. How do you ensure activities meet health and safety standards?
Answer: “I risk assess all activities, consult with care staff, and adapt where necessary. For example, when planning outdoor trips, I check accessibility, staffing ratios, and emergency procedures.”
17. What’s your experience with dementia care activities?
Answer: “I’ve delivered music therapy, sensory stimulation, and reminiscence sessions tailored to dementia residents. These reduce anxiety, improve mood, and spark communication.”
18. How would you keep residents engaged during quieter times?
Answer: “I offer casual, low-pressure activities such as puzzles, one-to-one chats, or reading aloud. Even small gestures like sharing tea or looking at photo albums can be engaging.”
19. How do you handle feedback and suggestions from residents or staff?
Answer: “I welcome feedback openly, log suggestions, and use them to improve future sessions. This creates a collaborative culture where residents feel their voices matter.”
20. What digital or creative tools do you use for activities?
Answer: “I use tablets for video calls with families, digital games for cognitive stimulation, and creative tools like arts and crafts kits. Blending traditional and modern tools ensures variety.”
Ending and Reflective Questions
21. What motivates you in this role?
Answer: “The joy of seeing residents feel included, respected, and valued motivates me every day. Making a positive impact on their quality of life is deeply fulfilling.”
22. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Answer: “I’d love to progress into a senior coordinator or managerial activities role within Anchor Care Homes, helping to shape larger wellbeing programmes across multiple homes.”
23. Why should we hire you?
Answer: “I bring a unique combination of creativity, organisational skills, and compassion. I’ve proven I can plan inclusive activities, adapt to challenges, and inspire participation. My values align with Anchor Care Homes’ mission.”
24. Do you have any questions for us?
Suggested questions:
“How do you measure the success of the activities programme at Anchor Care Homes?”
“What opportunities for professional development are available for Activities Coordinators?”
25. What are the next steps in the recruitment process?
Answer: “I’d love to know what the next steps will be so I can prepare further. I’m very keen on the opportunity to join Anchor Care Homes.”
Do’s and Don’ts for the Interview
Do: Prepare examples using the STAR method.
Do: Demonstrate empathy, creativity, and flexibility.
Do: Ask thoughtful questions about the role and organisation.
Don’t: Focus only on activities you enjoy—always tailor to residents.
Don’t: Dismiss feedback or challenges. Show openness.
Don’t: Forget to smile and show warmth.
Final Encouragement from Jerry Frempong
Remember, an interview is not just about proving you can do the job—it’s about showing how much you care about people. Anchor Care Homes is looking for Activities Coordinators who bring joy, empathy, and structure to residents’ daily lives. By using the STAR method, preparing real-life examples, and showing genuine enthusiasm, you will stand out.
If you want to boost your confidence and polish your performance, I recommend working with a professional interview coach. With personalised interview training and interview coaching online, you can take your job interview preparation to the next level. Book a session with me today for expert interview coaching that gives you the tools to succeed.
