How to prepare your CV

Do:

• Use the correct format
  • Use a traditional font eg Arial or Helvetica
  • Stick to font size 11-12
• Include personal details: i.e. your mobile phone number, home address and email address
• Add your personal profile and include details of what you are passionate about – especially if tthis relates to the apprenticeship
• Add your key skills in a bullet point list – tailor your CV for the apprenticeship you are applying for
• Include your education and employment history with details of colleges and schools that you have attended, with relevant qualifications and dates
  • List your recent jobs, work experience or voluntary work
  • List key things you’ve achieved for each job as bullet points

Don't:

• Use a cheesy email address – it looks unprofessional
• Write too much – make sure your CV is no longer than 2 pages
• Lie – make sure you write the truth, as employers have ways of checking

How to prepare for your interview

1. Plan your journey – make sure you know where to go, how long the bus or transport will take to get there
2. Get your certificates and CV ready to take to the interview
3. Arrive 10 minutes early
4. Turn your phone OFF
5. Wear something smart: 
   • Smart Dress
   • Trousers/skirt
   • Suit
   • Ironed shirt
   • Sensible, clean shoes
6. Make sure you are prepared, punctual, polite and professional.Smile and maintain eye contact throughout the interview.
7. Be enthusiastic and answer questions confidently and honestly
8. Be ready to talk about your strengths, with examples you can talk about
9. Remember to talk about any work experience or voluntary work you have completed
10. Prepare some questions to ask the employer at the end of the interview
11. Thank the interviewer at the end of the interview

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where can I find apprenticeship vacancies?

• You can explore our apprenticeship vacancies online
• or search for vacancies on the National Apprenticeship Service

Q: I’m not ready for a job or apprenticeship – what should I do?

If you’re not quite ready for an apprenticeship or applying for a job, a traineeship could be for you. A traineeship is a short course with high quality work experience that gets you ready for work or an apprenticeship. You will develop your English and maths skills, whilst learning how to prepare for work by improving your communication and interview skills.

You can also speak to one of our Student Advisers, who they will give you impartial information, advice and guidance. 

💬 Use our Live Chat feature - simply click on the blue icon on the bottom right-hand side of the screen to get started.

📲 Give us a call on 0151 551 7777 - available every week day from 9am to 4pm.

📍 Pop in to one of our drop-in sessions - head to our Conway Park campus every week day from 10am to 4 pm, and until 6pm on Wednesdays (term time only). No appointment necessary.