The role of a Substitute Teacher at Busy Bees childcare centres is a vital one. Busy Bees is one of the UK’s leading childcare providers, and their reputation for nurturing, safe, and inspiring environments depends on reliable and passionate staff. A Substitute Teacher ensures continuity of care and education when permanent staff are unavailable, stepping in to provide engaging lessons, safeguarding children, and supporting the learning framework of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). The role requires adaptability, patience, and strong communication skills.
Typically, a Substitute Teacher at Busy Bees can expect a salary in the region of £11–£13 per hour depending on location, experience, and qualifications. It’s an attractive position for those who enjoy flexible working and making a difference in children’s early development. Preparing thoroughly with job interview preparation is key to success, and that’s where this guide comes in.
25 Busy Bees Substitute Teacher Interview Questions and Answers
As your interview coach, I’ve curated 25 of the most commonly asked questions with detailed sample answers. I will also show you how to apply the STAR model (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for competency-based questions.
1. Tell us a little about yourself.
This is a classic opener. Focus on your teaching background, childcare experience, and passion for early years.
Sample answer:
“I’ve worked in early years education for over four years, primarily as a nursery practitioner. I love being able to nurture curiosity in children and support their social and emotional development. I’m adaptable, calm under pressure, and always aim to create a positive and safe learning environment.”
2. Why do you want to work at Busy Bees?
Employers want to know you’ve researched their brand.
Sample answer:
“Busy Bees’ reputation for excellence in early years education really inspires me. I admire your focus on nurturing children to be confident, curious learners. I want to contribute to that mission and bring my flexibility and teaching experience to support your centres whenever needed.”
3. What do you know about Busy Bees’ values?
Busy Bees emphasises safety, fun, and learning.
Sample answer:
“I know Busy Bees values curiosity, care, and quality in everything you do. For me, that aligns with my teaching philosophy of creating safe, engaging environments where every child feels valued.”
4. How would you handle walking into a classroom where children are unsettled?
A chance to show calmness and initiative.
Sample answer:
“I would quickly establish rapport with the children by introducing myself warmly, setting clear expectations, and starting an engaging activity. Children respond positively when they feel safe and know what’s happening next.”
5. Can you describe your classroom management style?
Sample answer:
“My approach is positive reinforcement—praising good behaviour, setting clear boundaries, and redirecting negative behaviour calmly. I always keep safeguarding at the forefront.”
6. How do you adapt your teaching style to different age groups?
Sample answer:
“For younger children, I use songs, play-based learning, and visuals. With older preschoolers, I introduce more structured activities but still keep learning fun and interactive.”
7. What’s your understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)?
Sample answer:
“The EYFS sets standards for learning, development, and care for children up to age 5. I’m familiar with the seven areas of learning and how to support them through play, communication, and observation.”
8. Tell us about a time you had to adapt quickly in a teaching environment. (STAR model)
Sample answer:
“Situation: I once covered a nursery where the planned activity materials hadn’t arrived.
Task: I had to engage the children productively.
Action: I improvised a storytelling and role-play session, using props from the classroom.
Result: The children were engaged for over 40 minutes, and staff praised my adaptability.”
9. How would you ensure child safeguarding as a substitute?
Sample answer:
“I always familiarise myself with safeguarding procedures at the start of each placement, follow policies rigorously, and report any concerns immediately to the designated safeguarding lead.”
10. How do you build rapport quickly with children?
Sample answer:
“By getting down to their level, smiling, asking their names, and joining in play. Children respond to genuine warmth and enthusiasm.”
11. What strategies do you use to engage children in learning?
Sample answer:
“I use a mix of sensory play, hands-on activities, and positive encouragement. I also tailor activities to individual interests to spark engagement.”
12. Describe a time when you worked effectively as part of a team. (STAR)
Sample answer:
“Situation: At my previous nursery, a colleague fell ill mid-day.
Task: We had to quickly reorganise staff to maintain ratios.
Action: I volunteered to cover story time and snack, coordinating with others.
Result: The day ran smoothly, and the manager thanked us for pulling together.”
13. How do you handle conflict between children?
Sample answer:
“I calmly separate them, listen to each child, and encourage them to express feelings respectfully. I then guide them towards a resolution and reinforce positive behaviour.”
14. What would you do if a child refused to participate?
Sample answer:
“I’d gently encourage, offer choices, and adapt the activity to their interests. Forcing participation is never effective—I focus on inclusion and encouragement.”
15. How do you communicate with parents as a substitute?
Sample answer:
“I provide clear, positive feedback about the child’s day, highlighting achievements. If there are concerns, I pass them to the permanent staff or manager to ensure consistency.”
16. What’s your approach to supporting children with additional needs?
Sample answer:
“I adapt activities, use visual aids, and follow individual education plans (IEPs). Inclusivity is key, so every child feels supported and valued.”
17. Tell us about a time you dealt with a challenging situation with a child. (STAR)
Sample answer:
“Situation: A child had frequent emotional outbursts.
Task: I needed to keep the class calm while supporting the child.
Action: I created a calm corner with sensory toys and introduced breathing exercises.
Result: Over time, the child became better at self-regulation, and staff noted significant improvement.”
18. How do you manage your time as a substitute with little preparation?
Sample answer:
“I prioritise familiarising myself with the day’s schedule and health and safety requirements. I then prepare flexible, adaptable activities that can be adjusted depending on the children’s needs.”
19. What role do you think play has in child development?
Sample answer:
“Play is essential—it develops social skills, creativity, problem-solving, and language. Through play, children learn naturally while enjoying themselves.”
20. How would you support children’s emotional wellbeing?
Sample answer:
“I create a safe, nurturing environment, encourage expression of feelings, and model empathy. Listening attentively makes children feel secure and valued.”
21. How do you handle feedback from colleagues or managers?
Sample answer:
“I welcome feedback as an opportunity to improve. For example, a manager once suggested I vary my storytelling pace—I applied it and noticed much better engagement.”
22. What steps do you take to maintain health and safety?
Sample answer:
“I complete risk assessments, follow hygiene protocols, and supervise children closely. Safety is always a top priority.”
23. What motivates you to work as a Substitute Teacher?
Sample answer:
“The variety and the chance to make an impact in different settings motivates me. I love knowing I can support children’s development, even for a day.”
24. Do you have any questions for us?
Always ask something thoughtful.
Sample answer:
“Yes, could you tell me more about how you support substitutes with ongoing professional development?”
25. How would you sum up why we should hire you?
Sample answer:
“I’m flexible, experienced in early years education, and committed to safeguarding and quality learning. I can step into new environments quickly and keep children engaged and safe.”
The STAR Model in Practice
Remember, competency questions are best answered using STAR: Situation, Task, Action, Result. It keeps your answers structured and clear. For instance, when asked about handling a conflict, describe the Situation, explain your Task, detail your Actions, and finish with the Result.
Do’s and Don’ts for a Busy Bees Substitute Teacher Interview
Do’s:
Research Busy Bees’ values and mission.
Use the STAR method for competency questions.
Show passion for early years development.
Highlight flexibility and adaptability.
Ask thoughtful questions at the end.
Don’ts:
Don’t give one-word answers.
Don’t criticise previous employers.
Don’t ignore safeguarding—it must always be front and centre.
Don’t appear unprepared or unaware of EYFS standards.
Final encouragement from Jerry Frempong
As someone who has spent over 25 years as an interview coach, I know how nerve-wracking interviews can feel. But remember—Busy Bees is looking for people who care deeply about children’s wellbeing and learning. If you demonstrate warmth, adaptability, and knowledge of early years, you’ll make a strong impression.
Practice aloud, prepare examples using STAR, and rehearse with an interview coaching online session if possible. My role as your interview coach is to remind you that confidence is built through preparation. With the right job interview preparation, you can go into your Busy Bees interview ready to shine.
If you’d like to take your preparation further, I offer personalised interview training sessions tailored to roles like Substitute Teacher. Book your one-to-one interview coaching appointment today at Interview Training UK.
