New 2021 Assistant Principal in the Civil Service

I would say read the instructions carefully - if there's a lot of relevant legislation/policy linked to the area you have chosen then narrow your analysis down to one or two and don't go down research rabbit holes. It boils down to - what's the situation with this issue, what's your analysis of this policy area, and what and how would you move it forward. I would also think about what you're being marked on - its important that you can analyze information, pull it all together and present it well (I did use referencing)- but its also critical that you can make decisions about what actions you would take forward - so I would put a lot of thought into your two actions - these should stem from your research and should be clearly thought out. You are also being marked on management and delivery of results in this exercise, so think about how you would deliver these actions (costing, who would need to be involved etc). Hope that helps.

The exercise takes a lot of work - its a big ask for the amount of time - but remember its only a portion of your marks.

Fantastic news congratulations

The chair of my panel said “well best of luck with your future career”

I was convinced then I had failed but passed. As someone who has sat on the other side you’re under so much pressure to get everything recorded. I wouldn’t take too much to heart

One of my interviewers said thanks I've learned a lot today. Didn't know what way to take it at the time.

@Kenrach yes quiet possibly one of the nicest interview boards I've had during a pas competition. Very positive about my experience and qualifications. But like you say didn't think I had it in the bag

Hi I was in the 700's for interd. if that is of any help.

Really struggling with report to the point of withdrawing so difficult to limit .. so much information! In terms of questions on report what did that entail? Thanks in advance for any tips

I placed in the 400s on the inter departmental and 600s on the open in stage 1 and had my interview in April.

If you provided references for your strategic analysis report, did you go on to the third page? Struggling to stay within 2.

Don’t give up! I felt the same, really struggled with timing & other commitments & very nearly didn’t submit, but you have to send it in to get the interview! In the end I scored poorly for report but enough to pass & made up for it in interview so got through to panel 😅 Just tidy it up as best you can & send it in on time, good luck!

That’s great news, best of luck with your new start

Just out of curiosity, what was the length of time between finding out you were successful got it, and getting your start date?

No problem but just for anyone else this was my timeline

1/3 results

1/4 contacted about clearance

4/4 forms sent to GVB

13/4 found out department

4/5 garda clearance completed

9/5 contacted about start date

I'm an external candidate and the process was far quicker for internals in my batch

Does anyone know how long the current batch of Dublin candidate interviews are going on for? My email listed board members up until the 13th - but I assume they are going on for longer than that?

I keep jumping at every notification, hopefully we won't be waiting too long.

Was it only Dublin candidates on the 29th or Wexford/kildare aswell.