Here are some answers to our most frequently asked questions. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, please contact:
Recruitment Team
8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday
Call 020 8937 3900 or by using our contact form.
Where can I view all your vacancies?
Most Brent Council vacancies can be viewed in the jobs section. This includes vacancies in Brent schools.
You can also register your details and create an account (you will need an email address for this). Once you have done this, you can register for job alerts. This means that you set the criteria for the type of job you are looking for and if we advertise a job that matches your criteria, an email alert will be sent to you.
- Apprenticeship opportunities at Brent Council apply via Brent Works
- Graduate opportunities at Brent Council apply via NGDP national scheme
Where can I view the vacancies if I do not have access to the internet?
- Use a friend’s or family members computer
- Visit your local library where internet access may be available. Using the internet in Brent libraries is free for library members
- Visit your local job centre, where you are able to view all our vacancies
How do I apply?
If you are interested in a job you can apply online, by providing an email address and you will be sent a verification code once you submit your application.
If you need an application form in a different format, please contact the recruitment team by emailing recruitment@brent.gov.uk
I have read that reasonable adjustments can be made – does this only include adjustments to the physical environment?
No, Brent Council is committed to ensuring that our recruitment process is barrier-free and inclusive for all, including for candidates who are disabled, have a long term health condition or are neurodivergent.
If you need reasonable adjustments to be made to the application, interview or assessment process, for example, information in a different format or more time to complete an assessment, please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@brent.gov.uk.
Can I apply for more than one job at a time?
Yes, however you will need to complete a separate application for each post you wish to apply for. Your personal details will automatically be populated with the information provided, however you will need to answer pre-screening questionnaires and Diversity and Equality information for each application.
Do you accept CVs?
In order to have a fair process to all applicants, we need to have a fully completed application form and supporting statement; however some positions may ask for a CV submission, so you must read the job advert carefully before applying.
How do I write a supporting statement?
Writing a supporting statement is important. It's your chance to showcase your skills and experiences and explain why you're a good fit for the job. Here's a simplified guide:
1. Get Ready: Before writing, gather your thoughts and make sure you have everything you need.
2. Match the Job: Look at what the job needs and make sure you talk about how you fit those needs.
3. Organise Your Answers: Put your answers in the same order as the job requirements. Use short paragraphs and clear writing.
4. Give examples: Use real examples to show what you can do instead of just saying you're good at something.
5. Be Honest: Always tell the truth about your past jobs and skills.
6. Be Clear: Make sure your answers are easy to understand.
7. Talk About Challenges: If you don't have everything the job needs, talk about how you can learn quickly.
I cannot find a vacancy on your website, can you help?
If the closing date of the vacancy has passed, it will no longer appear on the website and will be closed for applications.
I have forgotten the password for my account, what should I do?
You are not required to set up an account with a password to apply for roles. You will be sent a verification code when you submit your application, which will create a profile. This profile will be associated with your email address provided and any future applications will require additional verification codes. If you experience difficulties, please contact the Recruitment team by using our contact form.
How will I know if you have received my application form?
You will receive an automated email confirming receipt of your application. Please check that the automated email has not gone in your junk mail prior to contacting us.
Have I been shortlisted?
If you have not heard from us within four weeks you should assume that you have been unsuccessful on this occasion. Due to the large numbers of applications we receive daily, we cannot give feedback at the shortlisting stage.
How can I receive email alerts for future jobs?
Our new recruitment platform does not trigger email alerts for suitable jobs. We recommend you continue to check the career site frequently for all live vacancies.
I have been told that I need to attend an assessment centre, what will this entail?
Full details of the tests will be communicated to you prior to the assessment dates. If you find that you will require any adjustments to enable you to complete this exercise, please contact the Recruitment Team as soon as possible.
How much notice will I be given if invited for a test or interview?
We aim to give a minimum of seven days but we will try to give you as much notice as possible.
If I have been offered a test/interview, can I claim expenses to attend?
No we do not reimburse expenses.
How can I request feedback after interview?
If you have been unsuccessful at interview, please contact the Recruitment Team and we can arrange for you to receive feedback.
What pre-employment checks are required?
This depends on the post you have applied for. The following checks are required for most roles; references, medical assessment, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (formerly CRB), qualifications and proof of eligibility to work in the UK.
Do I have to disclose a criminal record?
This depends on the post that you are applying for and whether or not it is one covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. Clear guidance is given on this area for each vacancy that the council has. Certain posts that involve working directly with children or adults would require disclosure of convictions otherwise considered spent.
Can I join the pension scheme at the start of my employment?
Yes, all employees are automatically included in our pension scheme. Further details will be sent to you with your contract.