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Analysing a sample job or course description

When you analyse a job or course description prior to interview, try to put yourself in the interviewer’s shoes and think about the kind of a person you would look for.

• What sort of questions would you ask?
• What sort of evidence would you be looking for?

Here is an example of a job description and the skills required. Use the discussion to post a question that you would ask candidates at interview.

Learning and Community Officer - The Exciting Outward Bound Centre

We’re a charity run by a team of 20 staff who see the importance of offering outdoor opportunities to young people from inner city schools.

About the role

You will work as part of a team to organise and deliver an education activity programme for school groups on day or residential visits. By liaising with school leaders and providing exceptional customer service, you will ensure that all visits are a great experience for young people.

You will provide information for teachers and leaders of school groups to ensure that visits are of a high quality and suitable for young people’s needs. You will also help to develop appropriate resources.

You will assist in promoting the Centre as a residential venue for school groups. You will maintain bookings and a financial audit to monitor the performance of the Centre against our annual targets.

You will need to remain up-to-date with ‘safeguarding’ guidelines to work with young people, helping to promote their well-being and enjoyment and protecting their health, safety and welfare.

About you

A good understanding of the importance of exceptional customer service is essential. You will have a passion for working with young people in community development and environmental initiatives, including recycling, composting and energy usage. You must have an interest in, and good working knowledge of, outdoor activities, gardening and history.

Good working numeracy and literacy skills are a must, as are Microsoft Office skills. You must also display excellent communication and organisational skills allowing you to prioritise effectively. It’s essential that you can develop and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues within the team.