Interviewers ask this question to see if you can work the flexible hours the job requires, including times that may be outside of regular schedules to keep the nursery clean and running smoothly. You should clearly state that you are willing and able to work early mornings, late evenings, and weekends, and that you can adjust your personal schedule to meet these needs.

Example: I’m happy to work early mornings, late evenings, or weekends when needed. I’m used to adjusting my schedule to fit different shifts, which helps keep things running smoothly. For example, in my last role, I often stayed later to ensure the space was clean and ready for the next day’s activities. I understand how important it is to maintain a clean environment at all times, especially in a nursery setting.

Employers ask this question to see if you understand the importance of a thorough and safe cleaning process in a sensitive environment like a nursery. You need to say that you follow a systematic routine using checklists to cover all areas, use child-safe cleaning agents, and always wear protective equipment to meet hygiene standards.

Example: To make sure every corner is properly cleaned, I follow a clear routine that covers all areas step-by-step, paying close attention to spots children often touch. I use safe, gentle cleaning products designed for nursery settings to keep things hygienic without harsh chemicals. I’m always mindful of safety guidelines to protect both the children and myself, ensuring a healthy and welcoming environment for everyone.

Employers ask this question to see if you have practical knowledge of cleaning tools and can use them safely and effectively in different nursery settings. You should mention the equipment and products you’ve used, explain how you handle them safely, and show that you can adapt your cleaning methods based on the situation.

Example: I’m familiar with a range of cleaning tools like mops, vacuum cleaners, and microfiber cloths, and I understand the importance of choosing the right product for each surface to keep the nursery safe and clean. For example, using non-toxic, child-friendly cleaners and ensuring proper dilution helps protect little ones. I’m also comfortable adjusting my approach depending on the area, whether it’s wiping toys or sanitising floors.

This question helps the interviewer assess your knowledge of proper cleaning practices and your commitment to maintaining hygiene standards. You need to mention any relevant training or certifications you have, such as health and safety courses or sanitation certificates, to show you are qualified and reliable.

Example: While I haven’t completed formal certifications, I’ve gained hands-on experience maintaining cleanliness in childcare settings, understanding the importance of hygiene to keep children safe. I’m familiar with using appropriate cleaning products and following guidelines to prevent cross-contamination, which is essential in nurseries. I’m also eager to learn any specific procedures your team uses to ensure the highest sanitation standards.

This interview question aims to assess your knowledge of hygiene standards and your ability to maintain a clean, safe environment, especially important in settings with children. You need to explain how you followed specific cleaning routines and ensured the area was safe, giving examples of your attention to detail and reliability in spotting and fixing hygiene problems.

Example: Yes, I have experience working in environments where hygiene is crucial, such as a healthcare facility. I followed specific cleaning routines to prevent contamination and ensured all areas were sanitized thoroughly. Paying close attention to detail was important, especially around shared spaces and equipment. I understand how maintaining a clean setting helps keep everyone safe, especially in places like nurseries where children’s health is a top priority.

Questions like this help the interviewer understand what motivates you and if you find satisfaction in the job. You need to say that you enjoy creating a clean, safe environment and take pride in helping others by keeping the nursery healthy.

Example: What I enjoy most about cleaning is the immediate sense of accomplishment it brings. There’s something satisfying about seeing a space, like a nursery, become fresh and inviting for the children. Knowing that my work helps create a safe and comfortable environment where kids can learn and play makes the job feel truly meaningful. It’s rewarding to feel that my efforts contribute to their wellbeing every day.

Hiring managers ask this to ensure you understand safety protocols and the importance of protecting children and staff from harmful substances. You need to say that you always follow safety instructions, use protective gear, and store cleaning products securely to prevent accidents.

Example: I always make sure to read the labels carefully and follow the instructions exactly. When using any strong cleaning products, I wear gloves and ensure the area is well-ventilated to keep both myself and the children safe. For example, when using disinfectants, I keep them out of reach and never mix products. Safety is always my top priority while keeping the nursery clean and welcoming.

Employers ask this question to see if you take initiative and care about your work beyond basic responsibilities. In your answer, describe a specific instance when you noticed an extra cleaning task that improved the nursery's environment, and explain how you took action to complete it without being asked.

Example: In my previous role, I noticed that some toys and play areas needed extra attention beyond the usual cleaning schedule. I took the initiative to sanitize these regularly, ensuring children had a safe environment. One day, I also helped set up a sensory play corner, which wasn’t part of my duties, because I wanted to support the team and create a welcoming space. It felt rewarding to contribute beyond just cleaning.

This question helps the interviewer understand your awareness of safety and your proactive approach to preventing accidents. You need to explain a specific situation where you noticed a hazard and took immediate action to fix it or report it to keep everyone safe.

Example: While cleaning a play area, I noticed a small spill that could easily cause a child to slip. I quickly cordoned off the spot and cleaned it thoroughly to prevent accidents. Then, I informed the supervisor to ensure it was properly monitored. Keeping the environment safe, especially around children, is always my priority.

What they want to know is if you can stay motivated and create a healthy environment despite the routine or challenges. You should say you focus on the positive impact of your work and take short breaks to refresh your mind.

Example: I stay positive by focusing on the difference my work makes to the children’s environment. Knowing a clean, safe space helps them thrive keeps me motivated. I also take short breaks to refresh, chat with colleagues, and keep a friendly atmosphere. Simple things like these help me enjoy my day and approach each task with energy and care.

Interviewers ask this to see how you handle challenging situations and maintain cleanliness standards. You need to explain the mess, the steps you took to clean it effectively, and how you ensured the area was safe and hygienic afterwards.

Example: Once, a child spilled a whole paint set across the carpet. I stayed calm, quickly gathered the necessary cleaning supplies, and carefully blotted the area to prevent stains from setting. I then used a gentle cleaner suitable for the nursery environment to remove the residue. Taking my time ensured the space was safe and tidy again without disrupting the children’s activities.

Hiring managers ask this to see if you can accept and learn from feedback, which is important for maintaining high cleaning standards. You need to say that you listen carefully, stay positive, and use feedback to improve your work.

Example: I welcome feedback as a chance to improve. If someone points out an area I missed, I listen carefully and make the necessary changes right away. For example, if a classroom needs extra attention, I adjust my routine to ensure it’s thoroughly cleaned next time. I believe staying open to feedback helps me maintain a safe, comfortable environment for the children and staff.

This question aims to assess your flexibility and commitment to the job. You need to clearly express your readiness to adapt by sharing examples of when you covered extra shifts or volunteered for additional duties, showing you are reliable and dedicated.

Example: Yes, I’m happy to be flexible with my hours and take on extra tasks when needed. In my previous role, I often stayed late to help set up activities or cover for colleagues, which I found rewarding. I believe being reliable and ready to pitch in wherever helps the whole team run smoothly, especially in a busy environment like a nursery.

Employers ask this question to ensure you can safely and effectively use and care for cleaning machines, which is crucial for maintaining a clean and safe environment. In your answer, explain your experience operating machines like floor scrubbers or vacuums, describe how you perform routine maintenance, and emphasize your commitment to following safety and hygiene procedures.

Example: Yes, I’m familiar with a range of cleaning equipment from vacuums to steam cleaners, and I always make sure they’re well maintained by regularly checking for issues and cleaning them after use. I understand how important it is to follow safety guidelines to protect both myself and the children in the nursery, so I handle everything carefully to keep the environment clean and safe.

Employers want to know if you are flexible and reliable during unexpected situations. You need to say that you are willing and able to work on short notice to help maintain a clean and safe environment.

Example: Yes, I’m comfortable stepping in on short notice when urgent cleaning is needed. In my previous role, there were times when I was called in unexpectedly due to staff shortages or special events, and I made sure the environment was spotless and safe for everyone. I understand how important it is in a nursery setting to maintain a clean space at all times, so I’m happy to be flexible when the situation demands it.

Employers ask this to see if you can stay flexible and reliable when plans change suddenly. You need to say that you adapt quickly without fuss and always communicate promptly with your supervisor about any scheduling issues.

Example: I stay flexible and make sure to communicate clearly if something changes. For example, if a shift is moved last minute, I let my manager know right away and adjust my plans so I’m there when needed. I also try to anticipate any extra tasks and handle them promptly to keep everything running smoothly. Staying calm and organized helps me adapt without any hassle.

Interviewers ask this question to understand how you stay thorough and organized in your cleaning tasks. You need to say that you follow a checklist, communicate with staff to identify key areas, and inspect your work to catch any spots you might have missed.

Example: To make sure no spots are overlooked, I follow a consistent cleaning order that covers every area thoroughly. I also stay in close touch with the nursery team to know if any places need extra attention. Throughout the day, I regularly check my work and tidy up again if necessary, like wiping down a table after snack time to keep everything fresh and safe for the children.

Employers ask this question to see that you can stay focused and positive despite repetitive work, ensuring tasks are done thoroughly and efficiently. You should say that you set personal goals to stay on track, take short breaks to refresh, and find satisfaction in creating a clean, safe space for others.

Example: I find it helpful to focus on the difference my work makes, especially in a nursery where cleanliness supports children’s health. Keeping a steady routine and setting small goals, like finishing one area before moving to the next, helps me stay on track. I also remind myself that consistency is key, and approaching each task with a positive mindset makes even repetitive work more rewarding.

Hiring managers ask this question to see how you handle difficult situations and solve problems on the job. You need to describe a specific tough cleaning task you faced and clearly explain the steps you took to fix it, showing how you adapted if your first method didn’t work.

Example: In a previous role, I faced a tough stain on a carpet that regular cleaners couldn’t remove. I researched safe cleaning solutions suitable for a nursery environment and tested a gentle method, which worked well without damaging the fabric. It was satisfying to find a solution that kept the area hygienic and safe for children, showing how a bit of patience and creativity can solve unexpected problems.

Questions like this assess your understanding of child safety and cleanliness standards specific to a nursery setting. You need to explain that you use non-toxic cleaning products, thoroughly clean and dry all surfaces and toys, and report any hazards like wet floors or broken equipment to ensure a safe environment for children.

Example: To keep the nursery safe after cleaning, I choose products that are gentle yet effective, making sure no harmful residues remain. I clean surfaces carefully and allow them to dry fully to prevent slips or contact with wet areas. I also stay alert for anything unusual—like broken toys or loose fittings—and report these straight away to help maintain a secure space for the children.

This question assesses your ability to manage time and maintain a safe, hygienic environment for children. You need to explain that you prioritize tasks based on safety, urgency, and areas most used by the children.

Example: I usually start by focusing on the areas that the children use most, like playrooms and dining spaces, to keep them safe and comfortable. If something spills or gets messy during the day, I tackle that right away to prevent any accidents. Throughout the shift, I keep an eye on less urgent areas and fit those tasks in between, making sure everything stays clean and hygienic by the end of the day.

This interview question helps employers understand how you prioritize safety and follow proper procedures to prevent accidents or injuries. You need to say that you use protective gear, follow cleaning guidelines carefully, and stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

Example: To keep myself safe while cleaning, I always check that I’m using the right cleaning products and follow the instructions carefully. I wear gloves to protect my skin and make sure the area is well-ventilated. If something spills, I clean it up straight away to avoid slips. Keeping an organized space helps me move around safely, especially in busy areas like a nursery.

Interviewers ask this to see if you understand the specific cleaning needs and safety concerns in a nursery setting. You need to explain your relevant cleaning experience, emphasizing attention to hygiene, use of safe cleaning products, and ensuring a safe environment for children.

Example: In my previous cleaning roles, I’ve gained experience maintaining hygienic environments, which is especially important around children. I’m used to being thorough with toy and surface cleaning to ensure safety, and I understand the importance of using child-friendly products. For example, in a community centre, I regularly cleaned play areas and restrooms, always prioritising cleanliness to create a welcoming space for families.

What they want to know is if you understand the importance of keeping a safe and hygienic environment for children and staff. You should say that you follow all health and safety guidelines carefully to prevent illness and accidents, including using proper cleaning products and handling waste correctly.

Example: Yes, I’m aware that cleanliness is crucial in a nursery to keep children safe and healthy. It’s important to use non-toxic, child-friendly cleaning products and follow strict hygiene practices to prevent the spread of germs. I’m mindful of proper waste disposal and cleaning routines, such as sanitizing toys and surfaces regularly, to create a safe environment where little ones can play and learn comfortably.

Employers ask this to see if you can prioritize tasks and work efficiently under time constraints. You need to say you plan your tasks by priority, stay organized, and keep track of time to complete all duties within your shift.

Example: I start by prioritising areas that need the most attention, like playrooms and toilets, to make sure they're safe and hygienic. I keep a checklist and break tasks into smaller steps, which helps me stay on track without feeling rushed. For example, I clean one area thoroughly before moving on, so nothing gets missed and everything is done within my shift.