Job Application Guides
Stepping into the world of work or applying for your first apprenticeship can feel overwhelming, but your CV is your passport to opportunity. Whether you’ve got a part time job or you’re applying straight from school, this guide is will help you create a CV that opens doors.
We’ll show you what to include, how to write it, and how to avoid the common pitfalls.
What Is a CV?
A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a document that tells future employers or apprenticeship providers who you are, what you’ve achieved, and what you’re aiming for. Think of it as your personal marketing tool, designed to sell your skills, passion, and potential.
What to Include in Your CV
1. Contact Information
Make it easy to contact you.
At the top of your CV, include:
- Your full name.
- A professional email address.
- Your mobile number.
- Location (just the town or city is fine, no need for a full address)
Avoid: Emails like coolkid123@gmail.com.
Use: yourname@gmail.com
2. Personal Statement (or Profile)
This is a short, powerful paragraph just 2 to 3 sentences. It’s the first thing a recruiter will read, so make it count.
“A motivated and enthusiastic school leaver with strong teamwork skills and a passion for technology. Eager to begin an apprenticeship in IT where I can continue learning while making a real impact.”
Top tips:
- Tailor it to each job or industry.
- Mention your career goals.
- Highlight your key strength or achievement.
3. Education and Qualifications
Start with your most recent qualifications and work backwards:
- GCSEs (mention subjects and grades)
- A-Levels (include predicted grades if you haven’t finished)
- Any relevant courses (Duke of Edinburgh)
The Beacon Academy – 2019 – 2024
GCSEs: 9 subjects including Maths (7), English (6), Science (6)
4. Work Experience / Volunteering
Even if it’s limited, all experiences counts, Saturday jobs, volunteering, school projects, helping at events all these are transferable skills for the workplace.
Describe:
- Your role.
- What you did.
- What you achieved or learned.
“Sales Assistant, Oxfam Shop (June–Aug 2023)
Supported stock rotation, managed till transactions, and improved customer service skills while working in a fast paced environment.”
5. Skills
Highlight transferable skills like:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Problem solving
- IT and digital literacy
- Time management
Don’t just list them, give a brief example.
“Teamwork – Led a group presentation in English that was awarded top marks.”
6. Hobbies and Interests (optional but valuable)
This gives personality to your CV. Mention interests that show commitment, creativity, or character.
“Captain of the school football team; enjoy coding and building websites in my spare time.”
7. References
No need to list them. A simple:
“References available on request”
…is absolutely fine.
