How to write a personal statement
A personal statement (sometimes called a statement of suitability) explains why you meet the essential criteria overall. It is not the same as a single-behaviour STAR statement.
How it differs from behaviour statements
Behaviour statements drill one behaviour with one example. A personal statement usually covers several criteria, often with shorter mini-examples, aligned to the person specification.
Structure that works
- Open with the role and your strongest match.
- Work through essential criteria in order.
- Use compact STAR fragments where evidence is needed.
- Close with motivation that is specific to the department's work, not generic public-service lines.
See personal statement examples and grade pages such as HEO personal statement.