I try and update this blog when new information becomes available but the JAC are consistently inconsistent! I have updated this in February 2021 and it is simply an attempt to explain how the JAC qualifying tests work, what to expect, some advice and links that may help candidates.
In September, I was invited to be on a panel for a PM Forum event in London where we shared some ideas on marketing on a budget. It was geared to professional services: lawyers, accountants, architects but most of the ideas can be applied across industries and sectors. Subsequently, I was asked to write an extended article and that was recently published- “Punching Above Your Weight – Uncommon Sense”.
I’d welcome your feedback and thoughts:
“We cannot solve problems by using the same kind of thinking that created them” Einstein
I’ve found myself drawn into mentoring individuals from different sectors with a very diverse spectrum of issues. It started when a couple of people suggested that I should get involved with Entrepreneurial Spark It has exploded since then – and I’m loving it!
I’ve tried to find a definition for mentoring that I like or describes what I try to do but they all seem a bit too grand for me. I don’t have a set list of questions or a programme – all I do is make time to listen and then share examples and stories from my experience to encourage people to take a positive step.
You can read below some reactions to my approach –
Back in 1996 we were travelling in New Zealand and hired a car to tour around the islands for about a month. The car had a cassette player and we decide to find a record store in Auckland and treat ourselves to a tape. On impulse we bought Cheryl Crow’s “If it Makes You Happy” but we knew we needed more than one song!
I was out walking with my wife in the Yorkshire Dales beside the Wharfe, along a stretch we’d walked many times, when I noticed a different option – some stepping stones.
We’d never been on the other side of the river, the sun was out but the river was pretty full. After my first two steps I realised that the stones were very slippery. Do we go for it or go back the usual way?
***** 8 March 2024*****
– “I got it! Thank you for all your help – couldn’t have done it without you”
“Thank you so so much for your help, it was unbelievable Please come to my party?”
The 2024 competition launched yesterday with the deadline for applications at 5pm on Friday 19 April 2024.
It seems to be very similar to last year’s, however your 12 cases should be drawn from the last 3 years.
“Hi Tim. I’m pleased to tell you that your record of successfully getting people through continues. Many thanks for all your patience & it definitely made all the difference.”
First and foremost, do read the KC Appointment 2024 Guidance. But I would also strongly recommend that you consider the 2023 competition report and especially the panel’s approach to the competencies these will give you a real insight into who gets appointed and why.
“I got it!!!” – Circuit Judge
***** UPDATE 11 July 2023*****
Thia year’s competition launches next week on Tuesday 18 July 2023 – deadline for applications is 13:00 on Tuesday 8 August 2023 – there are currently 52 vacancies (40 in crime, 7 in family and 5 in civil). Successful candidates will be informed in June 2023!!
“Your input has been invaluable” – Resident Judge Candidate
It looks very similar to previous CJ competitions and in many ways, this is one of the most straight forward competitions that the JAC run. It has evolved over the years and now successful candidates know what they have to do: demonstrate their evidence of the competencies. You have two panels you need to convince – the short-listing panel and the selection day panel. There is some very helpful feedback, sound guidance and clear advice from the JAC on their website. There are expected to be 80 vacancies, but as with other competitions, the number may vary as the competition progresses.
Entering the third year of running my consultancy and seem to have even more to learn and do!
So, a good time to take stock, lift my head up and try and see where we’re heading. I must start by saying a big Wow Thank You to all my clients. I’ve worked with some great and seriously talented people, at times it has been challenging but also deeply rewarding to receive your positive feedback. THANK YOU.
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© The Tim Collins Consultancy 2024. Disclaimer: The Tim Collins Consultancy is the trading name of Wow Thank You Limited Company Number 8570216 Registered Office in England: 8 Oxford Villas Guiseley Leeds West Yorkshire LS20 9AD. The ideas and thoughts contained here have been harvested from many people and businesses over the years and the company acknowledges and thanks all the contributors. If you see something you are unhappy with please let us know.
