How to apply
To apply to any of our current opportunities you will need to complete the appropriate application form depending on whether you are applying for a teaching or support staff post.
If you experience any issues completing your application, or require any adjustments to the recruitment process, please call 0121 585 5385 or email recruitment@svat.org.uk
Shortlisting and Selection
It will usually be after the advertisement has closed that we will review all applications and shortlist candidates. In doing so we will be looking for applicants who are evidencing the required qualifications, skills and experience as required by the job description.
The selection process will then be by interview and may also include a combination of an observation, task or presentation or other suitable selection exercise. Applicants successful at shortlisting will receive a letter confirming the date, time and location of their interview and any other selection process to be undertaken. Details of the arrangements for the day, who to ask for, parking and any special conditions will be included.
References and online searches on candidates successful at the shortlisting stage are then undertaken prior to interview. This is in line with the statutory guidance – Keeping Children Safe in Education.
In some cases we may hold further interviews with additional colleagues and you will be informed of this if it is relevant to the role you have applied to.
Wherever possible we aim to let candidates know promptly the outcome of their selection process.
Tailoring our process to you
Wherever possible we seek to tailor our processes to the candidate’s needs – we want you to be in the best position to showcase your skills and abilities after all! To help us to be successful in doing this we would ask that you communicate with us where you have any special requirements.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for individuals who can show how they will contribute to our journey and who are aligned to our values:
Respect – Integrity – Collaboration – Excellence
- Make sure you tell us in your application form how you meet the criteria in the job description and person specification – the knowledge, experience and skills that you have.
- Tell us how these align with the role.
- Tell us how these demonstrate that you are an excellent candidate.
- Telling us is important but giving us evidence is even more powerful. Tell us what have you done previously that demonstrates you are a strong candidate.
FAQs
1. When should I apply?
Each vacancy will have a closing date clearly specified. Unless otherwise stated, applications will close at midnight on that date.
In some instances we may state that we will consider applications as they are received and may choose to interview and appoint a candidate and close the vacancy without notice.
Submitting your application promptly is advisable wherever possible.
2. What information do I have to provide in my application?
Our application forms require inclusion of the following information:
- Right to work in the UK status
- personal details
- education and qualifications
- professional membership
- employment details
- supporting statement
- references
- notice period and availability to start work
- equality and diversity monitoring details
- data consent and safeguarding declarations
3. Can I apply by CV or letter?
No, applications must be made using our application form. This is to ensure that we are able to fulfil all of our duties and responsibilities under Safer Recruitment and the statutory guidance – Keeping Children Safe in Education.
4. Can I apply to multiple positions?
Yes. You can apply to as many positions as you would like.
When applying for positions, please consider any differences between the positions you are applying for and the different settings to ensure that both you meet the specific requirements of the school and that each setting is appropriate for you.
Applying for multiple positions won’t affect how we view your application, but you may wish to ensure you have sufficient time to focus on where you feel you can contribute most and ensure this motivation is clear and evident in your application.
5. Who should I provide as a referee?
As part of our application process, you must provide the details of two referees. One of these referees must be your current or most recent employer. This should be a suitable senior member of the organisation. If you are currently employed in another school setting, this should be the Headteacher.
Your second referee should be a previous employer, or if you have been in full time education may be a suitable representative of your education provider.
A standard part of our recruitment process is to request references prior to interview. If you do not want your referee(s) to be contacted prior to interview, please email the contact in the job advertisement.
If you have any difficulties providing details of referees, please make contact via the email address given in the advert.