This page explains what candidates should expect at each stage of the application process. It provides key information, useful reading, and guidance to help you prepare effectively.
Assessment Centres: What to expect
The assessment centres will take place virtually and will last approximately four hours. During this time, you will complete a series of exercises designed to assess your suitability for the programme. These exercises include:
- a written exercise
- a group exercise
- a presentation exercise.
The assessments will be conducted on a bespoke virtual platform. Assessors, administrators, and invigilators will be present to support the process and ensure a fair and smooth experience for all candidates.
Preparing for the Assessment Centre
We strongly recommend that you review the key skills and behaviours that assessors will be evaluating. These can be found at the bottom of the Impact Finance Pathway webpage. Preparing with these in mind will be invaluable.
You will receive your login details for the assessment centre no later than 24 hours before the session from TopScore. You can use this time to familiarise yourself with the platform and ensure your setup is optimal.
Top Tips for a Successful Assessment
- Ensure a strong Wi-Fi connection. If you share your connection, consider asking others to limit bandwidth usage during your session.
- Create a professional environment. For example, sit upright in a quiet space with a neutral background to minimise distractions.
- Have everything you need. Keep a notepad, pen, calculator, and a glass of water nearby.
- Eliminate distractions. Turn off your phone and any unnecessary notifications.
- Engage actively. Be present, contribute to discussions, and showcase your skills confidently.
Assessment Centres: Breakdown of the day
You will complete three exercises:
- Group Exercise
You will be given a scenario and work collaboratively with your peers to reach a solution. The session will include individual preparation time followed by a group discussion. A facilitator will guide you through the process.
- Presentation Exercise
This is an individual task. You will be given preparation time before delivering a short presentation to an assessor, followed by a Q&A session. You will not need to use presentation aids such as PowerPoint slides.
- Written Exercise
This is another individual task. The exercise will last 45 minutes and assess your ability to analyse information and present clear, structured responses in written form.
Key Considerations for All Exercises
- No prior experience in local government is required, but some research will help you apply relevant knowledge. We recommend exploring key local government challenges and priorities.
- Manage your time effectively. Read all instructions carefully, plan your responses, and stay focused.
Coaching Support
We are committed to supporting candidates from diverse backgrounds and ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. Through our expert partners, Gradcore, we are offering practical workshops, mock interviews and one-to-one coaching for candidates progressing to the assessment centre stage.
While we aim to support as many candidates as possible, priority will be given to those who would benefit the most, particularly candidates from underrepresented groups, such as:
- Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds
- care leavers
- candidates with disabilities or special requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Assessment: Key details
Assessment outcomes
For any further queries, please contact [email protected].