Are you always shortlisted? How do you write your application?

[MamaAffrika]

Do you write to the person spec (as in one paragraph per point) or do you arrange your blurb under general headings?

I’ve always written to the person spec but for some SLT jobs I’m applying for now, there can be up to 30 points to cover. I’ve been teaching for a long time and my application is now so ridiculously long - I’m finding it difficult to know what to leave out and what to include. Would love some advice if you regularly read applications and do the shortlisting...

As an applicant, I tend to just write what is important to me - and what I like about the school - then go through the person spec and ensure I've covered all of the essential stuff in there.

As a shortlister, I want to read about why candidates are interested in THIS school. I want passion!