ATC Guide

The NATS ATC Assessment Centre: What to Expect

·6 min read

A detailed guide to Stage 3 of the NATS ATC selection process — the assessment centre, competency interview and group exercise.

If you pass Stages 1 and 2 of the NATS ATC selection process, you will be invited to the Stage 3 Assessment Centre. This is the final selection hurdle before a conditional job offer. Here is what to expect.

Format

The NATS Assessment Centre is currently conducted virtually via Microsoft Teams, typically lasting a full day. It includes:

  • Computer-based ATC aptitude re-tests (under observation)
  • A competency-based interview
  • A group exercise

    • Some cohorts may also include additional exercises. The format is confirmed in your invitation.

    Computer-Based Aptitude Re-Tests

    You will be required to repeat elements of the Stage 1 battery under observation. The purpose is to verify that the Stage 1 result was genuine — assessors want to see that you perform consistently whether tested remotely or in an observed environment.

    These tests are the same format as Stage 1: spatial reasoning, numerical reasoning, and related cognitive exercises. If you found Stage 1 challenging, continue practicing before the assessment centre.

    The Competency Interview

    The NATS interview is competency-based — you will be asked to provide specific examples from your life demonstrating the behaviours NATS looks for in ATC candidates. Common competency areas include:

  • Working under pressure — describe a time you managed a stressful or high-stakes situation
  • Attention to detail — describe a time you caught an important error
  • Teamwork and communication — describe a time you worked effectively in a team
  • Decision-making — describe a time you made a quick, important decision
  • Motivation — why do you want to be an ATC? What do you know about the role?

    • Use the STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for all competency answers. Prepare three to five strong examples from work, study or voluntary activities, and practice delivering them confidently.

    The Group Exercise

    The group exercise places you in a group of eight to sixteen candidates and presents a task or scenario to discuss and resolve collectively. Assessors observe:

  • Whether you listen as well as speak
  • Whether you contribute constructively without dominating
  • Whether you can build on others' ideas
  • Whether your communication is clear and appropriate

    • Do not try to take over or 'win' the group exercise. The assessors want to see collaborative, professional communication — not the loudest voice.

    After the Assessment Centre

    If successful, you will receive a conditional offer and begin the Class 3 ATCO medical and security vetting process. Employment begins once these are completed.

    Tips for Assessment Centre Success

    1. Revise your Stage 1 test skills. You will sit the aptitude tests again — continued practice pays off.

    2. Prepare STAR examples. Have at least five strong examples ready covering pressure, teamwork, attention to detail, decision-making and communication.

    3. Research the NATS values and the ATC role. Know what the job involves, why you want it, and what you know about NATS as an organisation.

    4. In the group exercise, listen first. Many candidates talk too much and listen too little. Being a good contributor includes building on what others say.

    Ready to practice?

    Full-length timed simulations of all four NATS aptitude tests. One payment, unlimited attempts, access forever.

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