Before you complete the application form
Please read the Job Description and Person Specification fully. Do you have all the qualifications, skills, qualities and experience necessary for the job?
We also advise reading about the college, our courses and our vision and values.
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Completing the application form
Read each section of the online application form carefully.
Individuals offered employment at the college must produce evidence of their eligibility to work in the UK.
The Statement of Application section is particularly important. This is your opportunity to tell us why you think you are suitable for the job. The shortlisting panel will determine which applicants to invite for an interview based on what has been written in this section. Make sure you clearly state how you meet each of the selection criteria outlined in the Person Specification using examples from your recent work experience to demonstrate your suitability for the post. If relevant, you may also include any skills, responsibilities and experiences gained outside the workplace, e.g. organising community events.
When an offer of employment is made, references will be taken up with your current and previous employer. If you have only had one employer, please name somebody of an appropriate status who is able to give an opinion on your suitability for the post. If you have never worked before, please name two people of appropriate status.
Read your application carefully, checking for errors and omissions.
The information you supply on the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form will be separated from the application form and will not be seen by the selection panel.
By submitting the form you declare that the information you have provided is correct. If you are appointed and any information is later found to be untrue, it may result in dismissal.
Check the closing date and make sure you allow enough time to return your application. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
Please do not send a CV.
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Shortlisting
The shortlisting panel will decide, from the evidence supplied on the application form, which candidates best meet the criteria outlined in the Person Specification. The panel do not see the Equal Opportunities Form. If you have been shortlisted, we will contact you to arrange an interview. Usually no more than 8 candidates are shortlisted for interview. We will shortlist any applicant with a disability if they meet the selection criteria.
If you do not hear from us within two weeks of the closing date, please assume that you have not been shortlisted on this occasion.
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Interview preparation
We strongly advise you to prepare for the interview by:
- Reading your application form
- Reading the Job Description and Person Specification once more to familiarise yourself with the requirements of the job
- Preparing for any questions the panel may ask you – often these are derived from the Person Specification or Job Description
- Preparing a variety of examples which demonstrate your experience
- Finding out a little more about the college from our prospectus or website. Ask our Human Resources Team to send you any additional documents you require.
- Having questions ready (if you have any) that you’d like to ask the panel.
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Tasks and presentations
In addition to the interview, depending on the nature of the post, you may be asked to prepare a short presentation, show a portfolio of your work or do a pre-interview task relevant to the job. We will let you know in your invitation for interview letter if you are required to do this.
If you are required to do a presentation it will usually take place in the first 10-15 minutes before the interview commences. The decision to appoint will not be made solely on your performance in your task.
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The interview
The interview will usually last from 30 minutes to one hour depending on the nature and seniority of the job. The interview panel will consist of two to five people. This will usually include relevant staff such as your prospective line manager and possibly a representative from the Human Resources team.
All candidates are asked the same core questions, although the panel may ask each candidate different supplementary questions if necessary. The panel will take notes during the interview. There will be an opportunity at the end of the interview for you to ask any questions.
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Final selection
When the panel have reached a decision, a member of the Human Resources team will contact the candidate they feel is best for the post (usually by telephone) to see if he or she wants to accept the position. The offer of employment will then be made in writing, subject to satisfactory references.
The appointment is also subject to a medical clearance, Disclosure and Barring criminal records check, a visa or work permit (if required) and proof of your qualifications.
Unsuccessful candidates will be informed of the decision in writing, usually within one week of the interview. We are happy to give you feedback on your interview on request.
Further information
If you would like any further information or you have any questions about the position you wish to apply for, please contact our Human Resources team on 020 8326 2294 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
We wish you the very best of luck with your application.
