We suggest smart casual clothes. That could be smart jeans or a skirt paired with a polo shirt, blouse or neat top. You don’t need to wear a suit - although you’re welcome to if it helps you feel confident.
Most interviews include at least one in-person stage. Sometimes, we start with an online interview and follow up with a face-to-face meeting. You’ll always be told in advance what to expect.
At least two people will interview you, and one of them will be trained in Safer Recruitment practices. This helps ensure fairness, consistency and a safe environment for everyone involved.
You’ll get a mix of competency-based questions and questions about your experience and approach to working with young people. For example:
We’ll also ask about your full working history. Gaps in employment are fine - we just need them explained.
If you’re attending in person, please bring:
If you forget something, don’t worry. We’ll arrange a follow-up before your start date if needed.
Yes, if the role involves working directly with young people. We’ll apply for an Enhanced DBS check and may ask you to join the DBS Update Service. You can start once we receive satisfactory results.
We’ll contact you as soon as possible with the outcome. If successful, you’ll receive a conditional offer based on references, DBS checks and other pre-employment requirements.
We’re committed to making reasonable adjustments at every stage of the recruitment process. Let us know what support you need - we’re here to help.
Yes—but you must have stopped using our services at least three years before applying.
That’s okay! We also accept references from academic institutions, volunteer roles or self-employment. Let us know and we’ll guide you through what’s needed.
Feeling nervous before an interview is completely normal. Here are a few ways to feel more confident:
Good luck with your Step by Step interview. We’re looking forward to meeting you.
Step by Step’s Supported Lodgings has become the first service of its kind to achieve Ofsted accreditation. We are now the largest Supported Lodgings provider in the UK, as well as being considered the authority in the field.
