We want our recruitment process to be fair, transparent and welcoming for all candidates. This page explains what you can expect from us and what we ask from you when applying for a role with us.
The process
We aim to keep our recruitment process clear and supportive. Here is what you can expect after you submit your application.
- Submit your application
Complete and submit the online application form before the closing date. Take your time completing the application form to ensure all qualifications and employment history are fully documented. Don’t worry, our system will save this information for future applications, so the only section you’ll need to update is the supporting statement. Here, you can explain why this role is right for you and how your skills, knowledge, and experience match the role.
- Application review
After the closing date, the hiring manager reviews all applications against the role criteria.
- Shortlisting outcome
We will email you to let you know the outcome of the shortlisting stage. You will either be invited to interview or informed that you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.
- Interview
If shortlisted, you will be invited to attend an interview. This may include an interview panel and sometimes a short task related to the role.
- Interview outcome
Following the interview, we will contact all candidates with the outcome. The successful candidate will receive a verbal offer.
- Formal offer
A written offer will be sent, and we will begin the pre-employment checks required for the role.
- Pre-employment checks
This may include an enhanced DBS check, references, right to work and identity checks, and other relevant checks depending on the role.
- Start date confirmed
Once checks are completed, we will confirm your start date and provide onboarding information.
- Welcome to the college
Your new team will welcome you and help you settle in.
- Induction
You will complete an induction to help you understand the organisation, your role, and the support available.
What we do
- We advertise roles clearly
All vacancies include key information to help you decide whether the role is right for you. This includes the responsibilities of the role, the skills, knowledge, qualifications and experience we are looking for, and details about the team or department.
- We review applications fairly
Applications are shortlisted against the criteria set out in the job description and person specification. Each application is carefully considered and assessed in the same way to ensure a fair process.
- We aim to communicate clearly
We aim to keep candidates informed throughout the recruitment process. This includes acknowledging applications and notifying shortlisted candidates about the next stage of the process.
- We provide accessible interviews
We want every candidate to feel able to perform at their best. If you require adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know and we will do our best to support you.
- We use structured interviews
Interviews are designed to explore how your skills and experience match the role. Questions may ask you to share examples from your previous work or experiences. Depending on the role you may be asked to complete a task-based assessment, presentation or micro-teach.
- We follow safer recruitment practices
As an organisation working with children and young people, safeguarding is central to our recruitment process. This means we carry out appropriate pre-employment checks for successful candidates, which may include references, identity checks and a DBS check where required.
What we expect from candidates
- Complete your application fully
Please make sure your application form is completed in full and that you provide enough detail about your experience, skills, achievements and all qualifications especially your English and maths qualifications as these are essential for most roles within the college.
- Show how you meet the role requirements
Use examples from your work, volunteering, education or lived experience to demonstrate how you meet the criteria in the job description.
- Be honest and accurate
All information provided during the recruitment process should be accurate and truthful.
- Prepare for the interview
If you are invited to interview, take some time to review the job description and think about examples that demonstrate your experience and skills.
- Let us know if you need adjustments
If you require reasonable adjustments at any stage of the process, please tell us so we can support you.