Guidance Notes

Completing the Application Form

In addition to these Guidance Notes please read carefully the notes you will find at the various sections on the application form. If you would like the application form in another format because of a disability (e.g. large print or floppy disk) please contact the Human Resources department. We will accept applications in other formats e.g. audio tape, where an applicant has difficulty in completing the form because of a disability or learning difficulty.

Please complete each section of the application form as fully as possible so that we can assess all applicants from the same information.

Please read the job description, person specification and any other documentation before completing the form.  Be sure to tailor your responses to the job you are applying for, evidencing where you have the ability to meet the selection criteria. We will use the information you supply to assess how well you meet the selection criteria, as set down in the person specification.  Make sure you include evidence relating to as many of the criteria that apply to you.

Ensure you include experiences and achievements from any sphere of your life.  You could include evidence of knowledge and skills gained through voluntary work, involvement in the community, activities, managing a home and a family, school / college and special interests as well as previous paid employment.  Tell us about any unpaid work you do or any position of responsibility you hold, for example in a club, or organisation you belong to.

Receipt of your application form will be acknowledged by e-mail.

The Selection Process

At West Suffolk College we organise our selection procedures with two central aims in mind:

  • To ensure that the processes are carried out in a relaxed and open atmosphere, which allows for the two-way exchange of information between staff of the College and the candidates.

  • To ensure that we carry out our selection procedures in ways which are equitable and which do not discriminate against candidates.

Where the needs of a post warrant it, a range of selection techniques will be used. Therefore candidates should note that a one off panel interview is not used alone.

Candidates invited for interview for lecturing or management posts may claim second-class rail fare and subsistence expenses. Further information will be forwarded to candidates prior to the interview.

Following an offer of appointment the successful candidate is expected to accept or decline within 24 hours of the initial offer.

Applicants should note that any canvassing of members of the Governing Body, directly or indirectly, will disqualify the applicant.

Equality & Diversity

West Suffolk College supports implements and promotes the principals and values of equality and diversity in its work. Our commitment means we welcome working in a multi-cultural, multi-faith society and believe that no one should be unfairly treated.

“West Suffolk College confirms that its employment policy aims to offer full equality of opportunity.  Employees and prospective employees will not be unfairly discriminated against on grounds of their sex, marital status, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation, age, trade membership or non membership. 

Where an employee may be disadvantaged on these grounds, the College will make every reasonable effort to rectify such disadvantage(s).  Employment terms and conditions and decisions on recruitment, selection, training, promotion and dismissal will be made solely on the basis of objective criteria.”

Positive about Disabled People & Health

West Suffolk College has been accredited with the two-tick symbol, which means we have made five key commitments to assure people with disabilities that we are taking practical steps to offer them positive employment opportunities. We are also committed to developing the full potential of disabled employees on an equal basis with others.

If you have indicated that you have a disability or a long term medical condition and provide evidence that you meet all essential criteria on the job description (with any reasonable adjustments), you will be offered an interview as part of the Colleges commitment to the employment of disabled people.

Please tell us about any adjustments that would help you apply for this post or carry out the job, if successful.  Where the job entails for example, lifting heavy objects etc. we may be able to make alternative arrangements or provide support.  We may also be able to provide time off for treatment, rest breaks during the day, special equipment, workplace adaptations etc. 

All employees are required to complete a health or disability declaration or a medical questionnaire, depending on the nature of the work.  Some employees, especially those who handle food or who work with vulnerable groups such as children or the elderly, may also be required to attend medical examinations. 

Information Regarding Criminal Records Bureau Disclosures

What is a Disclosure?

A Disclosure is a document containing information held by the police and government departments and it can be used by employers to make safer recruitment decisions. Disclosures are provided by the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB), which is an executive agency of the Home Office.

The successful candidate may be subject to an Enhanced Disclosure, depending upon the role you have been appointed to, as an employee of West Suffolk College may be working with children or vulnerable adults and in an establishment which is wholly or mainly for young people.

The cost of processing an Enhanced Disclosure is £36 and this will be deducted directly from your first salary payment. If the successful candidate already has an Enhanced Disclosure which is less than 12 months old, West Suffolk College may consider this.

Further information can be found at www.crb.gov.uk or by contacting the Human Resources department.

Consent to Process Sensitive Data

By submitting your application form you are giving consent to West Suffolk College recording and processing information about you in the following categories:

1.  Race, ethnic origin, age and disability

2.  Membership of a trade union

3.  Physical or mental health or medical condition

4.  Criminal records

The information will be used for the following purpose:

  • Administering sick pay and sick leave schemes

  • Managing the absence control policy

  • Checking suitability and fitness to work at the College

  • Checking suitability and fitness for course places

  • Administering the College and statutory maternity leave and pay schemes

  • Managing and maintaining a safe College environment

  • Managing duties and obligations under the Disability Discrimination Act

Your consent is conditional upon the College complying with their obligations under the Data Protection Act 1998.

Appeal

If you consider that your application for a job has been treated unfairly you should write to Dr Ann Williams, Principal, with your complaint within three months of your application being turned down.