Assessment Centres

At York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust we use values based Assessment Centres as part of the recruitment process for our senior positions.

As an organisation we believe that the behaviours and attitudes of a person are just as important as their skills, experience and knowledge. We have therefore developed our assessment centres to include a range of exercises which allow candidates to demonstrate their values and behavioural skills.

Our assessment centres are largely de-selective; this means candidates must pass the assessment elements to be offered a place at interview.

If you require any further information about Assessment Centres at the Trust please contact the Recruitment Team on 01904 725089.

What is involved in an Assessment Centre?

Upon attending the assessment centre candidates shall participate in a range of exercises to assess their suitability for the role. Candidates may take part in one to three of the following styles of exercise: a Group Exercise, a Written Exercise, a Scenario Exercise, a Presentation Exercise, and a Discussion Exercise. These exercises will involve you working independently and as part of a group with candidates applying for the same, or a similar role.

Prior to the Assessment Centre you may be asked to complete a written task at home should the recruiting department request a form of written exercise. You will need access to a computer with internet connection and also be able to receive a phone call from the recruitment team. This will be specified in your assessment centre invite if required.

At the Assessment Centre

At the start of the day you shall receive a brief which will outline exactly which exercises you shall be participating in, you shall also receive a timetable for the day. There is nothing candidates need specifically to prepare for in advance.

1. Get involved don’t be nervous about speaking up, we want to see what you have to offer!

2. Manage your time make sure you are aware of how long you have for each exercise and manage your time appropriately. If you are participating in group work it may be a good idea to split parts of the exercise up.

3. Be yourself and enjoy your assessments remember the assessment centre is an extra opportunity for you to show the organisation what you have to offer

Following the Assessment Centre:

Request feedback from the recruitment team whether you pass through to interview or not requesting feedback is a really great way to improve upon and develop your performance for the future.