Before you apply

The application form is the first step of the process we use to assess you and determines whether we short list you for further assessment. Our decision whether we progress with your application will be based on the information provided within the application form, which we will compare with the job description and person specification.

We will only consider applications which are fully completed, therefore it is very important that you read all the information first to make sure that the job and the conditions are suitable for you which are detailed in the job description and personal specification attached to the vacancy advert. 

You need to ensure that your application includes thorough descriptions of your experience, with examples of how you meet the essential and any desirables from the job description. By referring to the ‘how identified’ section of the person specification, for example, AF/I this would require you to ensure details are covered in your application form (AF) and be prepared to have this explored further during an interview (I).  Also, where the person specification indicates specific essential requirements for the role, you will be expected to provide quality examples within your application form (AF) rather than merely stating 'I have experience of ‘ nor will it be sufficient to provide a list.

In order to avoid discrimination, the Council does not accept CVs either on their own or accompanied with a completed application form and uses the information you include in your application form in three parts:

Part 1 - contains personal information, such as name and contact details. Personal details will not be shared with the recruitment panel until after the application assessment has taken place, reflecting our fair and transparent recruitment and selection practices.

Part 2 - contains your employment history, experience and qualifications. This is the only section provided to the recruitment panel for the application assessment stage.

Part 3 - contains criminal record information. The recruitment panel will only see this information if the applicant is progressed to the next stage of the selection process.