The role of a Nursery Third in Charge at Bright Horizons is both rewarding and challenging. Acting as a key member of the management team, you support the nursery manager and deputy manager in running a high-quality childcare setting. Responsibilities include supervising staff, supporting early years education, maintaining regulatory compliance, liaising with parents, and ensuring a safe, nurturing environment for children. Salaries for this position in the UK typically range from £24,000 to £28,000 per year, reflecting the significant responsibility and leadership required.
If you’re preparing for a Bright Horizons Nursery Third in Charge interview, it’s crucial to understand the types of questions you may face. This guide offers 25 fully explained interview questions and answers, covering opening questions, competency questions using the STAR model, and ending questions, alongside practical tips to succeed.
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
This classic opening question is your chance to set a positive tone. Focus on your experience in early years education, leadership roles, and your passion for childcare.
Example Answer:
“I have over seven years’ experience working in early years settings, with three years as a room leader. I enjoy supporting both children and staff to achieve their potential. I’m particularly drawn to Bright Horizons’ commitment to high-quality childcare and professional development.”
2. Why do you want to work at Bright Horizons?
Highlight your alignment with the company’s values, such as professional development, child-focused care, and innovation in early years education.
Example Answer:
“Bright Horizons’ reputation for high-quality childcare and commitment to staff development resonates with me. I want to contribute my leadership skills while growing within a supportive, innovative environment.”
3. What makes you suitable for the Third in Charge role?
Demonstrate leadership, organisational skills, and understanding of nursery management.
Example Answer:
“My experience leading teams, planning educational activities, and ensuring safeguarding compliance has prepared me for the responsibilities of a Third in Charge. I can support both staff and children effectively, maintaining a positive learning environment.”
4. How do you handle challenging behaviour in children?
Use a structured approach like the STAR model to answer competency questions.
Example Answer:
Situation: “A child was consistently disruptive during group activities.”
Task: “I needed to manage the behaviour while ensuring all children could participate.”
Action: “I observed triggers, spoke with the child gently, and introduced positive reinforcement strategies.”
Result: “The child became more engaged, and overall group activities improved.”
5. How do you ensure the safety and welfare of children in your care?
Focus on safeguarding, risk assessments, and compliance with EYFS standards.
Example Answer:
“I follow EYFS guidelines, conduct daily safety checks, and ensure staff are trained in safeguarding. I also maintain open communication with parents about their child’s wellbeing.”
6. Can you give an example of a time you led a team successfully?
Demonstrate leadership skills and results achieved.
Example Answer:
Situation: “Our room leader was off for a month, and I stepped in to manage the team.”
Task: “I needed to maintain smooth daily operations and staff morale.”
Action: “I delegated tasks effectively, provided guidance, and encouraged collaboration.”
Result: “The team remained motivated, and we maintained high-quality care standards.”
7. How do you plan and implement educational activities?
Show understanding of EYFS planning, differentiation, and assessment.
Example Answer:
“I observe each child’s needs, plan activities that stimulate learning, and adapt sessions for different abilities. I also track progress and adjust plans accordingly.”
8. How do you handle conflicts between staff members?
Focus on mediation, listening, and problem-solving.
Example Answer:
“I first listen to both sides, facilitate a discussion to understand the issue, and work together to find a fair solution. I follow up to ensure the resolution is maintained.”
9. Describe a time you improved a nursery process.
Show initiative and measurable impact.
Example Answer:
Situation: “Our snack routine was slow, causing delays in outdoor play.”
Task: “I needed to streamline the process.”
Action: “I reorganised the snack area, introduced a rotation system, and trained staff.”
Result: “Children had more outdoor time, and staff found the routine more efficient.”
10. How do you support children with additional needs?
Demonstrate inclusivity and personalised care.
Example Answer:
“I collaborate with SENCOs, create tailored learning plans, and use targeted interventions. I also communicate regularly with parents to ensure consistency.”
11. What do you know about EYFS requirements?
Display your technical knowledge.
Example Answer:
“I’m familiar with the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, including assessment, safeguarding, and promoting holistic development through play-based learning.”
12. How do you motivate your team?
Leadership and team engagement are key.
Example Answer:
“I provide regular feedback, recognise achievements, encourage professional development, and create an inclusive, supportive environment.”
13. How do you manage your time effectively?
Time management is critical for a Third in Charge.
Example Answer:
“I prioritise tasks based on urgency and impact, delegate effectively, and maintain clear schedules to ensure operational efficiency.”
14. Describe a time you handled a parent complaint.
Show communication and problem-solving skills.
Example Answer:
Situation: “A parent was unhappy with a recent policy change.”
Task: “I needed to address their concerns respectfully.”
Action: “I listened attentively, explained the reasons for the change, and offered a solution.”
Result: “The parent felt heard, and the issue was resolved amicably.”
15. How do you ensure your nursery team follows policies?
Focus on training, reminders, and modelling best practice.
Example Answer:
“I regularly review policies with staff, provide training sessions, and lead by example to ensure consistent compliance.”
16. Can you give an example of a time you introduced innovation?
Show creativity and impact.
Example Answer:
Situation: “Our creative arts activities were repetitive.”
Task: “I wanted to make them more engaging.”
Action: “I introduced thematic projects using recycled materials and sensory experiences.”
Result: “Children became more engaged, and parents praised the creativity.”
17. How do you handle stress in a busy nursery environment?
Focus on resilience and prioritisation.
Example Answer:
“I remain calm, prioritise tasks, delegate where appropriate, and take short mental breaks to maintain focus and clarity.”
18. What strategies do you use to observe and assess children?
Link this to EYFS and measurable outcomes.
Example Answer:
“I use a mix of observation techniques, learning journals, and digital records to track development. I adjust planning based on my observations to support each child’s growth.”
19. How do you ensure effective communication with parents?
Parental engagement is key to nursery success.
Example Answer:
“I maintain daily verbal updates, weekly newsletters, and schedule regular parent meetings. I also encourage open-door communication for questions and concerns.”
20. What would you do if a child was injured?
Safety and accountability matter.
Example Answer:
“I would provide first aid immediately, follow nursery protocols, complete an accident report, and inform parents promptly.”
21. How do you promote teamwork among staff?
Collaboration is vital in childcare settings.
Example Answer:
“I encourage regular team meetings, collaborative planning, shared responsibility, and celebrate team achievements to build cohesion.”
22. Why is safeguarding important in a nursery setting?
Demonstrate knowledge and commitment.
Example Answer:
“Safeguarding ensures the safety, wellbeing, and development of children. I follow statutory guidelines, train staff, and create a culture of vigilance and care.”
23. How do you approach performance management?
Link to leadership skills and staff development.
Example Answer:
“I provide constructive feedback, set clear objectives, offer training opportunities, and conduct regular appraisals to support continuous improvement.”
24. Do you have experience with the Ofsted inspection process?
Show awareness of compliance and readiness.
Example Answer:
“Yes, I’ve participated in Ofsted inspections, ensuring documentation, policies, and daily practice meet regulatory standards. I support staff to maintain consistent quality.”
25. Do you have any questions for us?
Ending on a positive note is essential.
Example Answer:
“I’d love to hear more about professional development opportunities for the Third in Charge role and how Bright Horizons supports career progression.”
Interview Coaching Tips and Encouragement
Preparing for a Bright Horizons Nursery Third in Charge interview can feel daunting, but with the right strategies, you can stand out. Start by practising answers to these 25 questions, using the STAR model for competency examples. Remember to:
Do’s:
Arrive prepared, with knowledge of EYFS and Bright Horizons policies.
Dress professionally and maintain positive body language.
Use specific examples from your experience.
Ask insightful questions at the end.
Don’ts:
Don’t exaggerate or provide vague answers.
Don’t speak negatively about previous employers.
Avoid being unprepared on safeguarding, policies, or early years frameworks.
By taking the time to practice, research, and reflect on your experiences, you increase your confidence and improve your chances of success. Investing in interview training or seeking support from an experienced interview coach can provide personalised guidance and feedback. You can also access interview coaching online, ensuring flexibility to fit your schedule.
With over 25 years of experience in career coaching, I’ve seen countless candidates transform their interview performance through consistent preparation. Start your job interview preparation today and give yourself the confidence to shine. Booking one-to-one interview coaching sessions will help you refine answers, master your body language, and walk into your interview ready to impress.
