How long will it last?

The Inspector Assessment Centre will last for 3 hours approx.

Who are the assessors? 

Usually there will be a mix of people from the Scrutiny and Assurance Directorate including Directors, Team/Service Managers and Inspectors and the Human Resources Team. They will be people who understand the qualities they expect to see in an individual performing the role you have applied for.

What will happen on the day?

You will be welcomed with tea and coffee and a communal welcome briefing. You will receive an initial address together with the other candidates about the timing of the tests and exercises, location of rooms and housekeeping rules (fire alarms, washrooms).

What happens during each exercise?

Prior to each exercise, you will be given instructions describing the exercise you’re about to perform. During each exercise interviewers / observers will rate you on a range of predetermined criteria. 

What happens after the assessment centre?

At the end of the assessment centre, the interviewers / observers compare each candidate’s performance to reach a consensus on overall performance. Usually within a two-week period, preferred candidates will be notified and the reference checking process will begin.

Feedback on the assessment centre can be sent to candidates who request it. 

 

How To Prepare For An Assessment Centre

  • Review, optimise and understand your CV/resume.
  • Review the advert, job description and person specification and match your skills and experience to the post.
  • Prepare your presentation in advance – structure it and have a clear message. Save it on a memory stick and also bring another format of your presentation such as a printed copy.
  • Test out your presentation to manage time and prepare for any follow-up questions that the panel might ask.
  • Prepare for some questions around fit that you are likely to be asked at interview and your responses. i.e. what strengths and experience will you bring to the role?
  • The main interview questions will be driven by a competency framework that is required for the job. i.e. Analysing & Interpreting, Organising & Executing, etc.
  • Think of relevant examples or situations you have been in before, for a number of competencies, and be able to tell your stories!
  • Using the STAR method can help you keep your examples focused:-
    a. Situation – set the context of your story
    b. Task – what was required of you
    c. Activity – what you actually did
    d. Result – how well the situation played out

  • Prepare a list of your own questions to ask at the end of your interview if you have points you would like to discuss. 
  • When you start your written exercise, read through the instructions and highlight what you need to do and the most essential points. Clarify your thoughts and think about a structure.
  • During your written exercise, tackle the most important and most complex issues first. Ensure that any conclusions you reach, recommendations you make are clear. Ensure you have sufficient time at the end to review your work, make sure nothing is missing that has been requested.
  • Get to your destination earlier than you need to review last minute information, reflect and compose yourself.
  • Check you have everything before you leave home. e.g. job description, person specification, copy of application form, proof of ID, certificates of qualifications, previous disclosure/PVG certificate, presentation back-up / hand-out materials, mobile phone, bottle of water, something to eat, etc.