Applying for a job at a school

[sbwtgir22]

I'm looking to apply for an admin job at a local secondary school that I'd like my children to go to (we are +2 years off the eldest going to secondary but out of catchment for this school).

On the application form it asks for the "reasons why you are applying to this post" and I was hoping for any advice as to what to put here. Ultimately my reason is so my children get places at the school as "children of staff". I know a number of parents who have taken roles at various schools for this reason but I wasn't sure if i should be that honest in my application?
Any advice would be gratefully received.

No, don’t put that! Potentially a reference to valuing the school community, but it surely is another chance to show why you are right for the role? So your skills and aptitude?

I wouldn't say that, also children off staff is usually quite a low criteria it doesn't guarantee they will get a place, I work in a high school and not every member of staffs children get in

Reasons why you are applying should be a thorough explanation of your skills and experience (with relevant examples) and why this makes you a good candidate. Making sure you hit every point on the person spec.

Not because it bumps your kids up the admission criteria. Honestly do not even think of writing that in your application!

Apologies - I should have worded that better.! I wasn't going to lead or only put that! Of course I will detail my skills, experience, qualities and any other relevant info. I was more wondering whether to reference a desire for my children to be part of the school in the future or not mention it at all.

I wouldn’t mention it.

No do not mention it at all. It looks really bad.
Have you seen the schools admission policy? Or are you assuming you get preferential treatment if you were to work there?

At this school, as long as you've worked there for 2 years at the time of your child's application, children of staff are 3rd on the criteria (area looked after/SEN and founders children).

I wouldn't mention it at this application stage. Focus solely on the person specification / job description and why you're the best fit for the role. Good luck!

Also, is it children of teaching staff or all staff? It shouldn't make a difference but sometimes there is.

It doesn't distinguish in the admissions criteria - it just says "children of staff"!

I wouldn't mention it. They will know anyway.
At my children's school, every staff member with children of the right age sends them to the school (from the head to the cooks). All the lunchtime supervisors and admin staff etc apply there to get their children in (they then usually stay for years and sometimes decades) and everyone knows! But I still don't think it's that sensible to put it on the form...

They aren’t looking at you to see what they can offer you, they’re looking to see if you can offer what they need. Wanting your DC to go there doesn’t benefit them at all so don’t mention it.

They will want to know that you’re hot on safeguarding and GDPR, thorough and detail focused, good with Word and Excel, and that you have the personal quantities for a responsible office job working with children. If you’re first aid trained or willing to be, so much the better. Many schools won’t take you without experience of using SIMS but you can only get that by working in a school, so catch 22.

Don’t mention the school holidays. Don’t mention you wanting your DC to go there. Do talk about what you can bring to the role that someone else may not - ie skills, experience, teamwork.

qualities not quantities FFS!

@SteveHarringtonsChestHair thank you - that was a really helpful reply!

SIMS is just a type of database, if you use something similar in your line of work, perhaps a CRM, then definitely talk about that. Mention that you pick up new systems quickly - you've used XYZ and been responsible for producing reports and maintaining accurate records for keeping in touch with customers etc.

Safeguarding is definitely a hot topic, their policy will be on their website, recommend you read it. If you get to interview, formulate an answer to the question 'if a child disclosed information to you that makes you concerned what would you do' or similar because I guarantee it will be asked.

Working in fast paced environment, dealing with members of the public, conflicting deadlines, appreciation of confidentiality all important. School offices are manic places! You'll probably get an in tray/prioritisation task at interview.

I think it depends on the school to some extent.

I teach in an international school and I mentioned wanting my daughter in the curriculum (IB - MYP) they offered at the interview.
I have also interviewed people who have mentioned wanting their children in the school.