Why we love a spelling mistake in a job application – and other tips on securing a summer job

“Any advice on how to succeed in the Discovery Summer application process?”

This was a recent question from a job applicant looking for a short-term summer position with us.

At first glance it seemed like a strange question. But then we thought – OK, why not? Instead of spending our days sorting through poor applications, we’ll publish some “Top Tips on securing a job with Discovery Summer” – so here goes…

Top Tips on Securing a Job with Discovery Summer

1.       Do you know what our company does? If not, why are you applying?
Do not move to step 2.

2.       As you will know, Discovery Summer organises great summer schools for international students who are mainly 5-17-year-olds. Do you like working with kids and teenagers? No. Do not move to step 3

3.       We offer a range of short-term summer positions which start from late June to early July and last for 2 to 7 weeks. You can see the exact dates here. Are you free to work then? If not, do not move to step 4.

4.       Every summer we recruit 50-100 staff to work as teachers of English as a Foreign Language, specialist teachers, activity leaders, house parents, Directors of Studies, etc. Have you read the relevant job description? They can all be found here. If you haven’t got time to read the job description thoroughly, do not move to step 5.

5.       So, you’ve read the job description. Does the job still appeal? When you read it are you genuinely excited about the role? Does it make you look at the rest of the website to see photos of the schools, the amazing campuses, the excursions? If you still really want to work for us, please move to step 6.

6.       Hopefully, if you’ve reached this stage you’re already dreaming of a summer job with us. Now, it’s time to start the application. The most important part is to write a statement explaining why you’re right for the role. It should be approximately 200-300 words (we don’t want an essay or a one-liner). We recommend you draft it in advance as you need to complete the application form in one go. But before you do, please move to step 7.

7.       Just pause a minute and note what it says at the start of the form. “Please do not use AI to write your statement” Why? Because we want to employ humans not robots. When you’re working for Discovery Summer you’ll be thinking on your feet, creating new activities, and talking to real-life children. If you rely on AI to help with the application process, how will you manage in the job itself? Are you a human? If so, move to step 8.

8.       Now that you’ve written your statement, read through it again – maybe ask a friend to check it. Does it make sense? Does it include all the important points? Does it show real enthusiasm for work with children and teenagers? Surprisingly, we don’t mind the odd spelling mistake – it’s better than a bland AI-generated paragraph full of buzz words and no substance. Let’s move to step 9.

9.       Time to check your CV. This is when help from a friend, colleague or parent is really valuable. Is it more than two pages long? (Please cut it down.) Is the font easy to read? Is it clearly laid out and include all relevant qualifications, experience and interests? Is it up to date? Now move to step 10.

10.   Hopefully your application will be successful and we’ll invite you to an interview. Please prepare yourself – you can even do our quiz to help. Can you remember the name of our company and what we do? (You’d be amazed how many candidates forget!) Take a deep breath, open the Zoom link, smile and be your best professional self. We look forward to meeting you.