 Some people find it difficult to apply for jobs. It isn't like there is a code you have to crack. In fact, there are three aspects to applying for a teaching position with SWSI, (plus a fourth if you're a tradesperson - a Trades Test). The three aspects are:
There is an order to these aspects. The merit selection panel will, firstly, assess your written application. If your written application indicates, to the panel's satisfaction, that you have what it takes, you will be called to interview. If you present competitively at interview, your referees will be contacted. Generally, Trades Test results are considered after shortlisting. Only the people who pass the Trades Test are considered in deciding which people to interview. Tips for writing your application: Remember, you won't be interviewed if you don't impress the panel. You need to show you have the goods. You should address each of the selection criteria individually. One option might be to list each of the Selection Criteria as headings and then outline in point form or short paragraphs how you meet that criterion. Think about your experience, skills and knowledge and use examples where appropriate. All our teaching positions ask for "high level written and verbal communication skills in English". You can understand why. Teachers are required to give accurate guidance, to explain procedures clearly and to report on progress and outcomes to the students or to employers. In preparing your written application, you need to go beyond bald statements such as, "I have high level written and verbal communication skills in English". From that starting point, successful applicants would provide specific examples of the ways in which they have demonstrated those skills through:
These are examples and you may have other ideas. Your actual application is one of the ways you show that you have high level communication skills in English. Make sure you proof-read, spell check, format well and express yourself concisely and accurately. Additional tips on how to apply are provided in the General Information Package which you'll find attached to each of our current vacancies. Every position also lists the name and contact number of an Inquiry Officer who is available to help you with any queries that are specific to your area of interest. Who should I nominate as my referee? You need three referees. At least one of the referees needs to be a current or recent supervisor. Your referees should be able and willing to speak about your professional and commercial competence in terms of the position. Referees who are only able to speak about your personal qualities should not be nominated. You should ensure your referees are consulted about your nominating them before the closing date and that their contact details are up to date. They should understand the nature of the contact which will be made with them and have a copy of your written application. Referees are accountable for the accuracy and validity of their comments, either positive or negative. They may be asked about any substantiated complaints or concerns about your performance. Avoid nominating referees who are in another country on a very different time zone to Australia. Logistically, this can prove difficult. If it is not possible to nominate a referee living in Australia, you might be able to specify Australian-friendly times in the week following closing date when your referee will be available. I am an experienced tradie. What does a Trade Test involve? Through the Trades Test, you will be able to demonstrate the technical skills you have acquired in your area through training and experience. It has two predominant components. The theoretical component tests basic and current knowledge in your area of expertise. It is not a numeracy or literacy test. The practical component allows you to demonstrate your fault-finding and diagnostic skills in a workshop environment. What is involved with an interview? You are called three working days before the interview and invited to come at a certain time to one of our Colleges. You turn up with 15 minutes to spare. You are invited into the room by the convenor. He or she introduces you to the other two or three panel members. One of the panel members is an "Independent", as in he or she is not employed in TAFE NSW. The panel members take turns asking you questions. All of the questions are based on the selection criteria. The first question may be something general like, "Why did you apply for this position?" or "What is the most interesting aspect of this trade/ area?" Another style of question might include a scenario or problem about which you are asked, "What would you do?" Or you might be asked to tell the panel about a situation you have handled which shows something about your skills against a particular criterion. You could be asked about your understanding and knowledge about a particular development in your area. It is important to consider the criteria carefully. Ask yourself, "How can I show that I have what it takes?" Ask others who are in the field to design some questions. Develop some practise responses. Click here to view current Employment Opportunities |
