Assessment day split into 2 individual tasks that test your ability to solve maths problems up to GCSE level, an interview focused on one of the tasks and a more traditional HR interview, followed by a small group activity.

Step 1: Quick, simple online application Step 2: Two 30 min online assessments - one maths, one Sparx-specific (based on teaching children) Step 3: Record video answers to a webcam. There is no option to re-record or have time to think over your answers so treat it like a face to face interview. Step 4: Assessment centre. Sparx paid for my travel to Exeter and also a hotel the night before which was good of them. Most people at this stage were from Oxford or Cambridge and Sparx seem to value academic ability over most other skills so be prepared for that. The assessment centre consisted of a group business role-play, two written tests, and an exercise where we had to design and present a revision video aimed at GCSE students. Overall it was a tiring but good experience and we were well looked after. Step 5: I didn't personally, but a close friend of mine got to this stage which consisted of a presentation, lesson plan, and 1:1 interview.