Frequently Asked Questions – Applying for a role
Can I apply with a CV or covering letter?
No. The Tarka Learning Partnership is committed to the principles of Safer Recruitment. This means we don’t accept CVs as a form of application.
There is no option to attach documents to your application form, but you may choose to include some of the information from your CV or covering letter in your application.
Can I apply for more than one vacancy at different Tarka Learning Partnership schools?
Yes. You are welcome to apply for any vacancy you feel you meet the criteria for.
What should I include in my application form?
Personal Information
For example, your personal and contact details, full employment history and qualifications to date.
Evidence-based information
This information gives you the opportunity to demonstrate that you have the knowledge, skills, ability and personal attributes to be able to carry out he position at the level we require.
When giving evidence-based information, demonstrate how your experience meets the criteria found in the Job Description and Person Specification. Try to include real examples, by describing your involve, the impact you had, the skills and knowledge you used and the outcome.
Remember that the selection panel is likely to have many applications to review. Please keep your application form clear, concise and relevant to the role for which you are applying and ensure you pick up on the key points, which will help you to stand out to the selection panel.
Please ensure that you check through your application thoroughly for any mistakes before submitting it.
I am having issues with my application. How do I get help?
If you have a query relating to a specific vacancy, the role requirements or recruitment process, please email the Tarka Learning Partnership HR Leader – jo.down@tarkatrust.org.uk
What should I do if I’ve made a mistake in my application?
Once your application form has been submitted you will not be able to make any changes to it and so please check it carefully before you submit it.
What happens after the closing date?
Following the closing date the selection panel will review all applications and assess them against the person specification for the role.
You can expect to hear an outcome of your application, by email, within a maximum of two weeks of the closing date. Waiting times might be slightly longer during school holidays.
If you are shortlisted for interview, we will give you as much notice as possible of the interview date, although we do publish the planned interview date in our advertisements. If the interview is at short notice and you are not able to attend on our planned date, please contact us and where possible we will try to rearrange your interview.
If you are not shortlisted for interview, feedback will not be provided due to the volume of applications received. Unsuccessful candidates are welcome to request feedback, which may be provided on a case-by-case basis.
I have a disability. What support will I be offered?
As an applicant for a vacancy in the Tarka Learning Partnership, you can be assured that your application will be considered based on your abilities, irrespective of a disability you may have. Selection for interview is based on the fit between your skills and experience and the criteria listed in the person specification.
If you are invited to interview, you will be asked to disclose whether there are any adjustments that you require. Please advise us of any requirements you may have and we will make reasonable adjustments wherever possible. Examples would be arranging a disabled parking space, ensuring the interview room is accessible or arranging for assistance during the interview.
You will be informed in advance of the location of your interview as well as the date and time and format of the selection process, for example whether there will be tests or if you will be required to give a presentation.
If you require any adjustments or assistance with any part of the selection process, please contact us as soon as possible to discuss how we can support you.
What do I need to prepare for an interview?
You will be informed in advance of the location of your interview as well as the date, time and format of the selection process, for example whether there will be tests or if you will be required to give a presentation. Please allow enough time to travel to the interview location to ensure that you arrive on time.
When preparing for the interview, you are encouraged to review your application form, the job description and person specification. This will help to make sure you understand the requirements for the role and recall the information you provided at the time of application, which will help you to feel confident going into your interview.
What is the process after the interview?
All applicants will be contacted by telephone and advised of the outcome of the interview. Feedback may be offered at this stage.
The successful candidate will be made a conditional offer of employment. Following verbal acceptance of the role you will receive a conditional offer of employment – all you have to do is await your pre-employment checks and prepare for your new career with Tarka Learning Partnership!