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Onboarding Staff

Conducting an Interview

This checklist is designed to help you prepare for and conduct an interview. 

Preparing for the Interview
 Review the candidate’s resume
 Prepare interview questions
 Set up an interview space (in-person or virtual)
 Review the candidate’s resume

Interview Process
 Welcome and introduce the centre’s philosophy, values, and approach
 Ask open-ended questions to assess alignment with the centre’s vision
 Discuss the role & expectations, including daily routines & responsibilities
 Provide a centre tour and introduce them to the team (if in person)
 Ask open-ended questions to assess alignment with the centre’s vision
 Explain the next steps and the expected timeline for the hiring decision
 Call references

Example interview questions to use or adapt for your context

  1. How does the BC Early Learning Framework inform your approach to working with children?

  2. What does “respect for children as capable and full of potential” mean to you in practice?

  3. The ECEBC Code of Ethics highlights the importance of lifelong learning. How do you engage in ongoing professional growth?

  4. How do you incorporate emergent curriculum and play-based learning into your daily practice?

  1. Can you share an example of how you have supported children’s sense of belonging in an early learning setting?

  2. How do you foster strong, reciprocal relationships with children, families, and colleagues?

  3. Describe a time when you navigated a conflict with a co-worker or family member. How did you approach it?

  4. How do you support family involvement in the learning process while respecting diverse perspectives and cultural backgrounds?

  5. The ELF describes educators as co-learners. Can you share an example of a time you learned something new alongside the children?

  6. How do you create inclusive and anti-bias learning environments for all children, including those with diverse abilities and cultural backgrounds?

  7. The ELF highlights the importance of critical reflection. How do you engage in reflective practice in your work?

  8. Tell us about a time when you received feedback about your practice. How did you respond, and what did you learn?

  9. How do you ensure that your practice aligns with the ECEBC Code of Ethics in day-to-day interactions with children and families?

  10. What strategies do you use to maintain emotional well-being and resilience in a demanding early learning environment?

  11. How do you handle ethical dilemmas, such as a situation where a family’s expectations conflict with best practices in early childhood education?

  12. How do you design learning spaces that encourage exploration, inquiry, and a connection to the natural world?

  13. The ELF speaks to the importance of the other-than-human world. How do you support children in forming meaningful connections with nature?

  14. What role do loose parts and open-ended materials play in your teaching? Can you give an example of how you have used them?

  15. How do you support children’s social-emotional development, particularly in moments of conflict or big emotions?

  16. What are some provocations or experiences you have set up for children that sparked deep thinking and engagement?

References

British Columbia Ministry of Education. (2019). British Columbia early learning framework. Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Children and Family Development, & Early Advisory Group. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/early-learning/teach/early-learning-framework

Early Childhood Educators of British Columbia. (2021). Code of ethics. https://www.ecebc.ca/resources-merchandise/code-of-ethics



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