Test Familiarisation Booklet

Test Familiarisation BookletSelection Testing

This is an important document so please set some time aside to read it in advance of the test session.

Dear Candidate,

With reference to your application for the Parliamentary Reporter Competition, we are supplying you with a Test Familiarisation Booklet.

1

Parliamentary Reporter in the Houses of the Oireachtas Service

2013/2014Campaign ID:13113208

The purpose of this Test Familiarisation Booklet is to introduce you to the format of the tests that are being used in the first stage of the selection testing procedures.

This booklet contains information about the tests being used, how the actual test booklets and answer sheets work, the time limits for each test and how the tests are scored. By familiarising yourself with the exercises in advance of the testing session, you can help optimise your performance on the day. Practice questions, similar to the types of test questions that you could expect to see on the day are presented for the stage one tests.

You will notice that we have grouped the practice questions, answers and suggested explanations together for each test in its own self contained section. It is hoped that this will make it easier for you to find your way around the document at speed and to also allow you to take breaks in between each set of practice questions, should you wish to do so.

The aim of this Test Familiarisation Booklet is to ensure that you are comfortable with the testing format and are aware of how to do your best in a test situation.

Please read this Test Familiarisation Booklet carefully, as it is your opportunity to prepare for the tests that you are about to sit and it should help to reduce the additional time spent clarifying instructions on the test day. Please note that in order to ensure that you will not be detained for any longer than necessary on the day of the test, there will be a limited amount of time allocated for instructions and examples.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for applying for the competition and to encourage you once again to take time to read through the documentation carefully. We look forward to seeing you on the test day.

Thank you,

The Public Appointments Service

PAS Parliamentary Reporter2 Familiarisation Booklet

Table of Contents Page

Background Information Why Tests are Being Used

4 The Tests Being Used at Stage 1

4

STAGE 1 TESTSThe Test Format Test Booklets & Answer Sheet Formats 5 How to Complete the Answer Sheet 6 Sample Answer Sheet 7 Test Scoring 8 Information about Practice Questions 9

Practice questions, Answers and Suggested Explanations Test 1 Verbal Reasoning

10 Answers to Practice Questions for Test 1 Verbal Reasoning 14 Test 2 Verbal Application Test 18 Answers to Practice Questions for Test 2 Verbal Application Test

21

Final Points Further Information about Selection Tests

22 Some More Test Taking Tactics 22 Test Day Checklist 23 Equality Monitoring

23


Why Tests are Being Used

The Public Appointments Service is committed to principles of good recruiting practice. These principles involve the fair and impartial selection of the best candidates for the job using job relevant means.

The tests in Stage 1 have been designed to measure a range of skills and qualities that are necessary in the Parliamentary Reporter role. Both of the tests have been designed to identify the most suitable people to go forward to the final stage of the competition.

The tests have been designed so that they are fair to all applicants. Each test is objectively scored.

The Tests Being Used at Stage 1

Stage 1 : Here is the list of the tests being used in Stage 1 of the competition and a general overview of what they are designed to measure.

Verbal ReasoningThis test measures the ability to absorb and evaluate verbal information and to make correct decisions or inferences. It is designed to measure other aspects of complex reasoning which are important in the Parliamentary Reporter grade.

Verbal Application TestThis test measures the ability to understand the meaning of words and logic within sentences and the use of grammar, which are essential skills in the role of Parliamentary Reporter.


Test Booklets and Answer Sheet Formats

Test 1 Verbal Reasoning and Test 2 Verbal Application will be presented in two separate booklets. The first pages of each of the test booklets will contain brief test instructions and example questions. The test questions will follow on the other pages. The test administrator will call out the basic instructions before each actual test commences. This will give you a chance to adjust to the test situation. In order to ensure that you will not be detained for any longer than necessary on the day of the test, there will be a limited amount of time allocated for instructions and examples on the test day.

You will be given one answer sheet for the tests and therefore you will be using side A and side B. A space for your name and candidate number will be contained the answer sheets. The answer sheet is designed for computerised scoring. This means they can be sent through computer scanning equipment which will read the marks you put on the answer sheet and your scores can be automatically calculated. Please remember to bring two soft pencils for marking your answer sheets as only pencil marks can be read by the computer scanner.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO BRING:

two soft pencils for marking your answer sheets as only pencil marks can be read by the computer scanner

a pencil sharpener & a white eraser to correct any mistakes

your authorisation letter (this will have your examination number on it and you will be required to write this number on your answer sheet)


How to Complete the Answer SheetThe first thing that you will be asked to do when you receive your answer sheet is to enter your name and examination number in the spaces provided. As in the example overleaf, when you are entering your examination number you should enter the numbers in the boxes and then mark the corresponding box in the column below. You will be given specific instructions about how and when to do this at the examination.

All of the questions are presented in multiple choice format, which means that you will have to choose from a set of answers labelled [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] and so on, depending on the number of answer options given for the questions in each test. You must mark the boxes with heavy marks [•] that fill the box completely, in order for the computer scanner to read it. This is very important as check marks [√] or crosses [x] cannot be interpreted by the computer scanner. There is an example overleaf which may make this clearer for you.

Here are some helpful tips for completing the answer sheets: You should listen carefully to the instructions for each test and ensure that you are

completing the correct answer section on the answer sheet for the test that you are doing. You will be using both side A and B of the answer sheet.

Within the test answer sections, each question has a corresponding answer line. As you go through the tests you may wish to check that you are filling in the right answer line for the question that you are answering. This is just in case you have marked the answer for a question in the wrong answer section or on the wrong answer line. For example, if you are answering question 1 from ‘Test 1 Verbal Reasoning’, then you should be marking one of the boxes labelled [A], [B] or [C] on line 1.

While these points may seem obvious, it is possible to lose your place on an answer sheet and fill in the wrong box in a testing situation. Unfortunately, errors such as these will not be picked up by the computerised scoring process.

You should fully erase any answers you wish to change.

A sample part of the answer sheet is illustrated overleaf.


SAMPLE

Public Appointments Service Answer Sheet

Signature: Mary Smyth Examination Number

0 1 2 8 6 9 9 9 1

Important directions for completing the answer sheet

Use only soft pencils. Do not use ink or pens.

Make heavy black marks that fill the box completely.EXAMPLE [ A ] [■] [ C ] [ D ] [ E ]

Fully erase any answers you wish to change.

Make no stray marks on the answer sheet.

[■][1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]

[0][■][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]

[0][1][■][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]

[0][1][2][3][4][5][6][7][■][9]

[0][1][2][3][4][5][■][7][8][9]

[0][1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][■]

[0][1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][■]

[0][1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][■]

[0][■] [2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]

All of the questions are presented in multiple choice format, which means that you will have to choose from a set of answers labelled [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] and so on, depending on the number of options given for the questions in each test.

SAMPLE ANSWER SECTION

Test 1 Verbal Reasoning EXAMPLES

1 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 3 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]2 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 4 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

1 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

13 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

25 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 37 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

2 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

14 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

26 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 38 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

3 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

15 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

27 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 39 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

4 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

16 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

28 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 40 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

5 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

17 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

29 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 41 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

6 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

18 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

30 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 42 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

7 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

19 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

31 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 43 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

8 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

20 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

32 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 44 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

9 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

21 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

33 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 45 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]


10 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

22 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

34 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 46 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

11 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

23 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

35 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 47 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

12 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

24 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

36 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] 48 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]


Test Scoring

Here is some information that should help answer some of the more frequently asked questions about how the tests are scored and how test results are calculated.

The answers to these tests are objectively scored using a standardised answer and score key. In line with best practice, the total score for each test will be transformed into what is known as a “standardised score “. This transformation allows for test scores to be interpreted in relation to the total scores achieved by all other candidates in a competition group on a particular test. A minimum standard is required on each test.

The answer sheets are computer scored. This means that you must be very careful to follow the instructions about how to correctly fill in the answer sheets. If you make a mistake on the answer sheet, such as not clearly marking an answer choice, or marking an answer choice on the wrong answer line, then you will not gain any marks for that question.

It is important that you put maximum effort into each of the tests as they both contribute to your overall test result.

There is no negative marking on this test


Information about Practice Questions

Practice questions for each of the tests are presented over the next few pages.

Test 1- Verbal Reasoning

Test 2 – Verbal Application

These practice questions are similar in format to what you could expect to find in each of the tests. You should try the practice questions for each of these tests using the mini answer sections presented directly after the questions.

When you are finished, refer to the relevant page numbers indicated on the table below to see how many you got right. If you had any difficulty and you want to see how you could improve your performance, then refer to the pages for suggested explanations to these practice questions.

Remember, these practice questions are only intended to help you familiarise yourself with the format of the test questions. Please do not be alarmed on the test day if you find that the questions are more difficult.

Test Answers to Practice QuestionsVerbal Reasoning Page 14Verbal Application Page 22


Test 1 Verbal Reasoning

This test measures the ability to absorb and evaluate verbal information and to make correct decisions or inferences. It is designed to measure other aspects of complex reasoning which are important in the Parliamentary Reporter grade.

On the test day you will be asked to answer 48 questions in 25 minutes

Instructions

In this test, you are given a passage of text which is followed by several statements. Your task is to evaluate the statements in the light of the information or opinions contained in the passage and to select your answer according to the rules given below.

A TRUEB FALSEC CANNOT SAY

Mark Box A if the statement must be true based on the information in the passage.Mark Box B if the statement is definitely false given the information in the passage.Mark Box C if you cannot say whether the statement is true or false without further information.

Base your answers only on the information given in the passage.

See how many of the following questions you can answer in 7 minutes. Remember to work quickly as well as accurately. You should mark your answers on the mini answer section presented directly after each set of four practice questions.

If you are ready to proceed - take a look at the time and write it down here:

Good Luck ……. and begin NOW…..


Many businesses have endeavoured to make comment cards available at all of their customer service outlets and a few are considering the feasibility of establishing customer panels on a pilot basis. However, some businesses have acknowledged that the response to customer surveys in the past has been poor, possibly reflecting the frequently voiced customer complaints of too much form filling. It may also be an indication that progress has been made and that customers are more satisfied with the customer service being offered.

Q1 Numerous businesses have attempted to make commentcards available at their customer service outlets.

Q2 The response to customer surveys decreases when customers are satisfied with the customer service being offered.

Q3 Some businesses are investigating the viability of setting up customer panels on a pilot basis.

Q4 The number of forms to be filled in by customers causes some people to complain.

Verbal Reasoning ExercisePractice questions

Mini Answer SectionQ1 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]Q2 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]Q3 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]Q4 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]


A True

B False

C Cannot Say

Base your answers only on the information given in the passage

Companies are seeking to improve their Web-Site so that requests for information can be dealt with more promptly and their new site will also contain customer services information. Also, “Direct Dial Inwards” (DDI) has been introduced along with VPN (Virtual Private Network) service. This facilitates calls between the Company and other VPN sites. As most sites have converted to DDI this means that staff should be in a position to dial desk to desk. This also means that customers can be transferred to the appropriate agency without having to make a second phone call. Staff are encouraged to use proper voice mail recordings with up to date information.

Q5 One reason why companies are trying to develop their web-sites is to respond to queries more quickly.

Q6 All Staff can now dial from desk to desk.

Q7 DDI can only operate on VPN systems.

Q8 It is obligatory for staff to abide by the rules regarding proper voice mail recording.


Mini Answer SectionQ5 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]Q6 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]Q7 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]Q8 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]


A True

B False

C Cannot Say


Many colleges are now taking a more progressive approach towards education and training. Colleges now offer a greater variety of academic courses to meet the needs of today’s employer. Students are encouraged to explore all training and career options before they decide on a particular course. Advice is available from career guidance counsellors who will help the student to choose a course that will suit their needs. Because the courses are also provided through distance education it allows the individual to study at home and correspond with lecturers by using e-mail and facsimile machine. Obtaining qualifications which have credibility with employers and which accurately reflect the scope and level of the individual’s abilities and achievements is vital for all those trying to access the job market.

Q9 There are a greater number of academic courses available from colleges aimed at meeting the needs of employers.

Q10 Academic courses are only provided through distance education.

Q11 Many courses are provided at honours degree and post graduate level.

Q12 Before deciding on an academic course, students are advised to investigate all choices available to them.


Mini Answer SectionQ9 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

Q10 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]Q11 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]Q12 [ A ] [ B ] [ C ]

STOP! - take a look at the time and write it down here:

Well done ….. take a break, and come back to check your answers using the answer key on page 14. Suggested explanations for these questions are presented on pages 15 to 17.


A True

B False

C Cannot Say


Answers to practice questions for Test 1 – Verbal Reasoning

Here are the answers to the practice questions for the Verbal Reasoning test. Check to see how many you got correct.

Test 1 Verbal ReasoningMini Answer Section

Q1 [■] [B] [C] Q7 [A] [B] [■]Q2 [A] [B] [■] Q8 [A] [■] [C]Q3 [■] [B] [C] Q9 [A] [B] [■]Q4 [■] [B] [C] Q10 [A] [■] [C]Q5 [■] [B] [C] Q11 [A] [B] [■]Q6 [A] [■] [C] Q12 [■] [B] [C]


Suggested Explanations for Test 1 - Verbal Reasoning Practice Questions

Many businesses have endeavoured to make comment cards available at all of their customer service outlets and a few are considering the feasibility of establishing customer panels on a pilot basis. However, some businesses have acknowledged that the response to customer surveys in the past has been poor, possibly reflecting the frequently voiced customer complaints of too much form filling. It may also be an indication that progress has been made and that customers are more satisfied with the customer service being offered.

Q1 Numerous businesses have attempted to make comment cards available at their customer service outlets.The answer is [A], True as it is clearly stated in the passage that, “Many businesses have endeavoured to make comment cards available at all of their customer service outlets…”

Q2 The response to customer surveys decreases when customers are satisfied with the customer service being offered.The answer is [C], Cannot Say as there is no definitive proof in the passage that responses to customer surveys decreases when customers are satisfied with the customer service being offered. Although it states in the passage “It may also be an indication that progress has been made and that customers are more satisfied with the customer service being offered”, “It may also be an indication” does not mean it is definitely true.

Q3 Some businesses are investigating the viability of setting up customer panels on a pilot basis.The answer is [A], True as it is clearly stated in the passage that, “Many businesses have endeavoured to make comment cards available at all of their customer service outlets and a few are considering the feasibility of establishing customer panels on a pilot basis”.

Q4 The number of forms to be filled in by customers causes some people to complain.The answer is [A], True as it is clearly stated in the passage, “…that the response to customer surveys in the past has been poor, possibly reflecting the frequently voiced customer complaints of too much form filling”.


Companies are seeking to improve their Web-Site so that requests for information can be dealt with more promptly and their new site will also contain customer services information. Also, “Direct Dial Inwards” (DDI) has been introduced along with VPN (Virtual Private Network) service. This facilitates calls between the Company and other VPN sites. As most sites have converted to DDI this means that staff should be in a position to dial desk to desk. This also means that customers can be transferred to the appropriate agency without having to make a second phone call. Staff are encouraged to use proper voice mail recordings with up to date information.

Q5 One reason why companies are trying to develop their web-sites is to respond to queries more quickly.The answer is [A], True as it is clearly stated in the passage that, “Companies are seeking to improve their Web-Site so that requests for information can be dealt with more promptly…”

Q6 All staff can now dial from desk to desk.The answer is [B], False as it is clearly stated in the passage that, “As most sites have converted to DDI this means that staff should be in a position to dial desk to desk.” This indicates that staff should be able to dial from desk to desk, but it does not state that all staff can dial from desk to desk.

Q7 DDI can only operate on VPN systems.The answer is [C], Cannot Say as there is not enough information within the passage for us to determine whether the DDI function can only operate solely on VPN systems. It is not stated in the passage what system or systems DDI is compatible with therefore the answer is [C], Cannot Say.

Q8 It is obligatory for staff to abide by the rules regarding proper voice mail recording.The answer is [B], False as it is clearly stated in the passage that, “Staff are encouraged to use proper voice mail recordings with up to date information”. It is clear from this statement that staff are encouraged to abide by the rules regarding voice mail recording. Encouraged to abide by does not mean obliged to abide by. Therefore the answer is [B], False.


Many colleges are now taking a more progressive approach towards education and training. Colleges now offer a greater variety of academic courses to meet the needs of today’s employer. Students are encouraged to explore all training and career options before they decide on a particular course. Advice is available from career guidance counsellors who will help the student to choose a course that will suit their needs. Because the courses are also provided through distance education it allows the individual to study at home and correspond with lecturers by using e-mail and facsimile machine. Obtaining qualifications which have credibility with employers and which accurately reflect the scope and level of the individual’s abilities and achievements is vital for all those trying to access the job market.

Q9 There are a greater number of academic courses available from colleges aimed at meeting the needs of employers.The answer is [C], Cannot Say, as the passage states that, “Colleges now offer a greater variety of academic courses to meet the needs of today’s employer.” However, the fact that there are a greater variety of courses available, does not necessarily imply that there are a greater number of courses.

Q10 Academic courses are only provided through distance education.The answer is [B], False as it is clearly stated in the passage that, “Because the courses are also provided through distance education it allows the individual to study at home and correspond with lecturers…” It is clear from this statement that academic courses are provided through distance education and by other methods.

Q11 Many courses are provided at honours degree and post graduate level.The answer is [C], Cannot Say as there is not enough information in the passage regarding the types/levels of courses provided.

Q12 Before deciding on an academic course, students are advised to investigate all choices available to them.The answer is [A], True as it is clearly stated in the passage that, “Students are encouraged to explore all training and career options before they decide on a particular course”.


Test 2 Verbal Application

This measures the ability to understand the meaning of words and logic within sentences and the use of grammar, which are essential skills in the role of Parliamentary Reporter.On the test day you will be asked to answer 35 questions in 20 minutes.

Instructions

In the test you will find sentences with two or three missing words. Your task is to choose from the five options given for each question, the combination of words which best completes the sentence and to choose the combination of missing words which result in a piece of text that is grammatically correct and makes the most sense.

Indicate the correct combination of words by filling in the appropriate box on your answer sheet, A, B, C, D or E.

Practice Questions

No. 1

A B C D E Failure Failure Failure Success Success No Less More More Greater

No. 2

A B C D E Much Much Much Uniquely Uniquely Given Spread Focused Assigned Distributed

No. 3


The company will provide clothing and equipment where it is required.However, it is up to the to take reasonable care of their own safety by using equipment that is provided.

The of the venture might have been predicted if attention had been paid to the report which pinpointed several fundamental problems.

The problem is not so the total amount of funding assigned to the department, but rather that this funding has been too thinly amongst individual managers.

A B C D E Protection Protective Protective Protective Precautionary Employed Employment Employers Employees Employees

No. 4

A B C D E Applauded Greeted Criticised Dismissed Welcomed Radically Poorly Poorly Well Well

No. 5

A B C D E Creating Generating Solving Enhancing Identifying Define Imitate Seek Discredit Divulge

No. 6

A B C D E Growing Decreasing Increasing Weakening Mounting Tax Job Sales Spending Expenditure

Answers to the Practice Questions:

Test 2 Verbal Application Q1 [A] [B] [■] [D] [E]


The decision was by the workforce as an important move towards providing a defined career structure.

Her first step in the problem was to the opinions of those who would actually be involved in the day to day running of the scheme.

The job losses came despite pressure to reverse the demand for cuts.

Q2 [A] [■] [C] [D] [E]Q3 [A] [B] [C] [■] [E]Q4 [A] [B] [C] [D] [■]Q5 [A] [B] [■] [D] [E]Q6 [A] [B] [C] [D] [■]

In each case the answer indicated above is correct as it results in text that islogically and grammatically correct.

Further Information about Selection Tests

In response to feedback provided by candidates, we are including references to other literature and information about selection tests. Although these are not necessary in order to perform well at test sessions, you may find it useful and maybe reassuring to have a look at one of the many books available which are specifically aimed at people who are about to undertake selection tests. Typically these books cost less than €15 each and we have listed three published books for your information.

‘How to succeed in Psychometric Tests’ by David Cohen - Sheldon, 1993.

‘How to pass Selection Tests’ by Mike Bryon & Sanjay Modha - Kogan Page, 1994.

‘How to win at Aptitude Tests’ by Paul Pelshenke, - Torsons, 1993

Books about sitting selection tests, should be available from good book shops and/or your local library.

And Finally …… Some More Test Taking TacticsHere are some suggestions which will help you to prepare for the testing session.


In advance…

Work through the practice items again for the tests that you will be sitting and try to understand how to reach the correct answer for each question.

Get good nights sleep before the test session and allow yourself plenty of time to reach the test venue so that you don’t have to rush.

Dress comfortably. Remember that you will be sitting for a long period of time and that

you may cool down as the test session progresses.

During the test session…

Each test will be preceded by a set of brief instructions and some examples.

Listen carefully to the instructions for each test, especially the numbers of questions and time limits for each test.

Make sure that you understand how to complete the answer sheet. It will be similar to what has been presented in the practice sections of this Familiarisation Booklet.

As you go through the tests you should check that you are marking the correct space in the correct section of the answer sheet for the question that you are answering.

Read through the question and answers carefully, paying attention to detail.

Attempt as many questions as you can, working quickly and accurately and to the best of your ability. You should try as hard as you can, as the more questions that you get right, the higher your score will be.

If you find a question difficult, it may help to choose the correct answer by first eliminating the wrong answers.

Do not waste time on very difficult questions, but go back to them at the end if you

have enough time. Where this occurs, pay particular attention to the advice above with regard to marking the correct answer space on the answer sheet.

Test Day ChecklistBefore you arrive at your test centre, please ensure that you have the following items with you:

1. Some form of photographic ID (ie passport, driving licence or student card This is essential for admission to the test centre 2. Your exam authorization letter.3. Two soft pencils.4. 1 white eraser.

5. 1 sharpener.


PLEASE NOTE: ITEM NUMBERS 3 TO 6 ARE THE ONLY ITEMS YOU WILL BE PERMITTED TO USE DURING THE TEST SESSION.

Equality Monitoring

The Public Appointments Service is committed to an equal opportunities policy, and in accordance with the Employment Equality Act (1998, 2004), aim to ensure that all applicants are treated equally whatever their gender, civil status, family status, sexual orientation, religious belief, age, disability, race or membership of the travelling community.

As part of our ongoing commitment to equality, we want to monitor our selection process(es) in order to ensure that our equal opportunities policy is effectively implemented. To this effect, we are interested in collecting a range of information, which will help us to understand further how people are performing throughout the selection process (es), and to help ensure that our selection techniques are fair to all people.

As part of our ongoing equal opportunities policy, we will be asking you to complete an Equality Monitoring Form, with a view to ensuring that our recruitment and selection processes are equality-proofed.

While the completion of this form is completely voluntary, we would encourage you to help us in equality-proofing our processes by completing all questions on the form that relate to you as an individual. Neither the manner in which you respond to this request for information, nor the answers that you provide will have any bearing on the manner in which your application is considered. The information provided will be entered on confidential databases within the Equality Unit of the PAS, and used to produce data in an anonymous statistical format only.

- Good Luck in the Tests -

On the day of the test you will not be permitted to leave until all documentation has been checked. Candidates will not be permitted to bring any paper material (test relevant or otherwise) either into or out of a test centre. Any attempt to breach this regulation will be considered sufficient grounds for disqualification from the competition.


Documents

Test Familiarisation Booklet