personal statement examples for a school leaver

School leaver CV examples + guide

You’re leaving school and you need to write a CV to land your first job… Exciting times!

But you probably have no idea how to write a CV, or perhaps you aren’t even sure what a CV is.

But don’t worry…

I’ve created this mega guide to writing a school leaver CV, which includes 4 school leaver CV examples and a step-by-step guide to writing your own.

So, you can create a winning CV that will attract employers and get you plenty of interviews, even if you have no work experience.

CV templates 

School leaver CV example

School leaver CV (with no experience)

School leaver CV (with part time experience)

College leaver CV

What is the purpose of your CV?

The ultimate purpose of your CV is to secure job interview s for you.

Think of it as a leaflet for your services; advertising your skills and knowledge to potential employers.

You create your CV and promote it out in the job market to get noticed by firms you want to work for.

If an employer likes your CV, they will call you and invite you in for an interview

So as you can imagine, it needs to look professional and read extremely well if it’s going to be effective.

Who will read your CV?

Your CV will mainly be read by hiring managers and recruiters .

When you apply for a job online, recruiters will review your CV to find out if you have the requirements they are looking for to fill their vacancy

If your CV makes a good impression, then the recruiter will call you with a view to book you in for an interview, or pass your CV on to the hiring manager.

Recruiters and managers tend to be very busy and often have to review hundreds of CVs every week – so your CV needs to grab their attention and explain your value quickly.

What makes a good school leaver CV?

What makes a good CV?

A good CV is one that quickly shows recruiters and managers that you have all the necessary skills and knowledge required to perform their vacant role – it’s that simple, and it shouldn’t be over complicated.

If your CV can do this, you will generate lots of interest and interview requests from employers.

It needs to be clearly structured and formatted – and the content should explain to readers why you are a good candidate for the job being advertised.

What if you have no work experience?

Don’t worry too much about having little or no work experience.

We all have to start somewhere and plenty of  students are able to find jobs straight from school at 16 years old , without experience or contacts.

You just have to be a little more creative when writing your CV and draw transferable skills out from things like school/university projects, qualifications, hobbies, extracurricular activities , volunteer work and part-time work.

Using a blend of structure , formatting , language and content, anyone can write an attractive CV.

I will cover how to do this in more detail, in the “ How to write a school leaver CV ” section

What should you put in your CV?

When you are new to the world of work, it can be difficult to know what information you should include in your CV.

So before you start writing your CV, it’s wise to do some research and find out exactly what your target employers are looking for in a candidate.

So head over to a job website and run a search for the type of job you are looking for

You can use a site like CV Library  (it will open in a separate window)

Then look through 10 or more job adverts and make a list of the most important candidate requirements that keep appearing.

Requirements will include things like:

• Qualifications – GCSE’s, A-levels, Degrees etc.
• Soft skills – Communication, leadership, organisation etc.
• Hard skills – Literacy, numeracy, languages etc.
• IT capabilities – Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Photoshop etc.
• Industry knowledge/experience – Accountancy, marketing, design etc.
• Extra-curricular activities – Sports, hobbies, personal projects etc.

Now that you have an extensive list of the things that your target employers are looking for, you know exactly what you should be highlighting in your CV.

You probably won’t possess all of the requirements, but you should always refer to this list when writing your CV, and try to demonstrate as many as you can.

Quick Tip: In some cases where you don’t have a particular requirement, it can be beneficial to show that you are working towards it. For example if a job advert is asking for basic HTML knowledge and you don’t have it – start taking an online course  on the subject and include it in your CV.

How to write a school leaver CV

Now that you have seen some example CVs, here’s how to write your own interview-winning school leaver CV.

CV structure and format

Start of by working to the following structure:

CV formatting tips

• Use a simple clear font – Ensure that employers can read your CV without any confusion
• The colour scheme should be plain with black text on a white background creating the easiest reading experience.
• Text should be broken up  as much as possible to ensure that busy recruiters and hiring managers can digest the information quickly
• Use big bold headings  to clearly define sections and break the information up further

Name, title and contact details

Head your CV up with you name in bold and a professional title that relates to your field.

Put your contact details just underneath your name so that it’s easy for recruiters to get in touch with you.

• Phone number
• Email address
• Location (no need to put your full address – general area where you live or are willing to work is fine)
• Link to LinkedIn profile (optional if you have a one and it’s good enough to share)

Take up as little space as possible with your contact details to save room on your CV.

If you have no work experience; check out my video guide to writing a CV when you have no experience

CV Profile/Personal Statement

Your CV profile or personal statement is your opening pitch to recruiters and employers.

It will be the first thing they read upon opening your CV, so you need to give them some good reasons to be interested in you.

Ideally, you want to summarise the skills you have to offer an employer, in a way which reflects the qualities that they are looking for in a candidate – so again you should be referring to the list you made earlier.

Good things to include are;

• Your highest academic achievements –  A Level in maths,  10 GCSEs A-C
• IT Package proficiency – Word, Excel, Photoshop
• Any experience that could be relevant to your target roles – School projects, voluntary work, work placements, personal projects or pursuits
• Relevant hard skills – Languages, literacy, numeracy
• Relevant soft skills – Communication, motivation, teamwork, personal skills

Take a look at the example CV profile below

This person is a school leaver with A-levels who is applying for office based sales roles .

They have no office based sales work experience .

However, they do have some part time supermarket cashier experience which involves some of the same skills and experience. So they have really taken advantage of that.

The trick is to write for the job you want , not the job you have. Really sell yourself to the reader.

Many school leavers think that their part time jobs in bars and retail stores bear no relevance to the jobs they apply for when they start working full time.

However there a lot of transferable skills that you can include in your CV, and by using the right language, you can create a very professional image with them – like the above.

Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Core skills & achievements

In order to give recruiters a very quick glimpse of your skills, use a bullet pointed core skills and achievements section.

As I mentioned earlier, recruiters and managers tend to be very busy – so a bullet pointed list of valuable skills and achievements can give them a really quick snapshot of your talents, and encourage them to read the rest of your CV in full.

If you have carried out some notable projects that relate to your target roles, then it would be worth setting up a section underneath your core skills to list them like in the example school leaver CV above – but don’t worry too much if you haven’t.

If like most school leavers, you do not have any direct work experience in the field you are applying to, I would recommend listing your education next.

Start with your most recent qualification and work backwards to your earliest.

Include plenty of detail to compensate for your lack of work experience – especially if your education can be related to the jobs you are applying for.

However, if you do have some relevant work experience, then place your work history above your education.

Work experience

Work history is an area that many school leavers struggle with as they often work part-time jobs that they feel will not look impressive on their CV.

However, your work experience (no matter how unimportant you think it may be) gives you a great opportunity to demonstrate a lot of important skills that are required for nearly all jobs.

Things like:

• Communication
• Working with customers
• Organisation

They also give you an opportunity to show off your written language skills.

The below is a role description for a part time job working at a cafe –

Basic CV template

Start with the dates, company and role title.

Quick Tip: you can tweak the role title to sound as professional as you like. E.g. don’t write “Shelf Stacker” – instead go with something like “Shop Floor Operative” or “Sales Assistant”  so that you appear as professional as possible.

Then provide an outline of the role that summarises the role and company as well as showing where you sit within the organisation’s hierarchy.

Then bullet-point your responsibilities in a way that demonstrates your valuable workplace skills.

Where possible try to show how your actions contribute to the success of the employer.

For example, instead of simply saying:

“Monitoring and replenishing stock levels”

Expand on that point and say:

“Monitoring and replenishing stock levels to ensure customers have access to all products and more stock is sold throughout the week”

This shows how important you are to the running of the business and how valuable you could be to an employer.

Hobbies and interests

When you lack work experience, your hobbies can be a great way to demonstrate some more of your talents.

Good hobbies to list are:

Work related interests – For example, if you are an aspiring web designer and have created a website in your spare time, then provide a link to the site – Or if you are applying for science related jobs and carry out your own research in your spare time, then tell readers about it.

Big achievements – Perhaps you’ve run a marathon, played for the school football team or competed in national chess competition – these types of activities show motivation and determination, so get them onto your CV.

Charitable work – Any kind of fund raising or volunteer work you undertake for charitable causes look great on your CV because they show you are willing to help others and often involve lots of organisation and planning.

Don’t list common hobbies like “ watching TV ” or “hanging out with friends” as they are unlikely to impress employers.

Writing a school leaver CV – Conclusion

Using the above advice you should be able to create an effective school leaver CV that will make a big impression on recruiters and ensure that you get invited to plenty of interviews.

Remember to keep the format easy-to-read and always tailor the content to match the demands of the employers you are applying to.

Also, check out our graduate CV and  example customer service CV and writing guide.

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Home » Personal Statement Examples » School Leaver Personal Statement Example

School Leaver Personal Statement Example

By Guest Author

   If you are leaving school soon and looking to begin work and are ready to start applying for jobs then once you have highlighted what kind of jobs you want to apply for then you need to start looking at what skills and experience you have to offer an employer.

Starting a career at such an early age allows employers to mould you into their company without already having any bad habits. It also means that you will be given the opportunity to learn as much as you can and take on board what you can depending on how much you want to put into your career.

Related: School Leaver Cover Letter

Before doing your personal statement within your application you will need to consider carefully what skills and attributes you have to offer and tailor this to what specific job you are looking to apply for. This could mean tailoring each statement if you are going to be applying for different things.

Below is an example personal statement that you can use as a guide:

I am a young, keen individual who is eager to begin a career in (what depending on the role you are applying for). I will be leaving school/I left school (when) and am interested in working in your industry/company.

I work hard, enjoy learning and like to do things that are hands on where I can feel the jobs getting done and see the success this brings. I have always had a passion for (career choice) and have done (what towards beginning this career choice).

I am very enthusiastic and have tailored my education round (what career choice to be interested in) and ready to begin learning whilst doing something that I enjoy. I want to be successful in my career and am prepared to put the hours and effort into my career to achieve this.

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• CV and Cover Letter
• How to write a CV for a...

How to write a CV for a school leaver (with template and example)

8 min read · Updated on October 25, 2022

Thinking about stepping into the world of work?

If you are a student approaching the end of your education or have recently left school, you're probably wondering how to write an impressive CV that will help you onto the career ladder. Even if you have no previous work experience, there's a way to write a CV that will highlight your abilities and elevate your skill set. Read on to find out how to write a school leaver CV, what to include, what not to include, plus a template and CV example for UK students to use as inspiration.

What is a school leaver CV?

A school leaver CV is a document that provides a brief account of your education, qualifications, and employment or volunteer experience. It's used when applying for a new job by students that have completed year 11 with GCSEs, or college with a BTEC, GNVQ, A Levels, or Highers and Advanced Highers.

As a current student or recent school leaver, you may have limited professional experience. But qualifications, skills, and voluntary work can be used on your CV to demonstrate your competencies when applying for your first job, apprenticeship, or internship.

Information to include in a school leaver CV

The format of a CV is flexible. After all, every person and their experiences are unique, so the document structure must be malleable. However, there are essential elements to include in your CV that prospective employers expect to see and that you can leverage as a school leaver. They include:

Contact information

Personal profile

Core competencies and skills

Work and voluntary experience

Hobbies and interests

How to write a CV as a school leaver or student

To help increase your chances of success in securing your first job, follow these steps to create your school leaver CV:

1. Contact information

Every CV starts with your contact information, not the title “CV” or “Curriculum Vitae”. The information to include is your full name, location, phone number, and email address. If you have a link to a website or a professional online portfolio, you can add that too.

2. Personal profile

Next on your CV is a personal profile, which is also known as a professional summary or personal statement. Note that it is not the same as a personal statement written as part of a university application. 

Your personal profile is a short paragraph consisting of two or three sentences summarising who you are, your relevant qualifications or experience, and your job goals. For example, as a school leaver, you may write that you have recently completed school and are looking to take your first steps in a particular industry.

3. Core competencies and skills

Following your personal profile is a section designed to highlight your most relevant competencies, skills, and achievements. Bullet point between six and nine of your most impressive abilities and achievements that are relevant to the role you are applying for. They could be hard skills from particular classes, such as IT, or soft skills you have cultivated throughout your education.

We would recommend tailoring this section to each position, as it's often the first thing a hiring manager reads. If your points align with the role requirements and the potential employer's needs, you'll create a powerful first impression.

4. Education

Since you're a school leaver, your education is very important and is likely to be a stronger representation of your skill set than your work experience. This is especially true if you're applying for your first job. As a result, it should be the next section on your CV.

Detail your educational history from GCSE level onwards, working in reverse chronological order. For each institution, include the school name and bullet point the name of the qualifications you gained there, along with the grade. If you're awaiting results, you can add predicted grades and the expected date of completion. 

If you're attending college, you can summarise your GCSEs in one line as your college-level qualification is more advanced and therefore a more accurate representation of your current competency level. However, we would recommend mentioning Maths and English GCSE grades. as they're often a prerequisite for many jobs. For example, “9 GCSEs including grade 6 in English and Maths.” 

If you've received any academic awards, were a member of any clubs, or took part in extracurricular activities, you may choose to list them in this section too. Alternatively, you can list them in a dedicated awards section or in your hobbies and interests section.

5. Work and volunteer experience

If you have some work or volunteer experience, no matter how brief, it could be a great addition to your CV. However, if you don't, you can skip this section.

Listing relevant work experience is very similar to your education section, whereby each experience is listed in reverse chronological order, detailing the company name, your job title, employment dates, a brief overview of your role to add context, and a bullet-point list of key achievements.

To ensure that your listed experience strikes a chord with the prospective employer, review the job description and identify key requirements and phrases that align with your own experience and be sure to reference them. Tailoring your school leaver CV in this way will show how you could be a great match for the vacancy.

6. Relevant hobbies and interests

A hobbies and interests section is optional for a CV, but it can be used to leverage your candidacy, especially if you don't have work experience. It can also show off your personality and passions. 

Hobbies and interests that relate to key requirements listed in the job description and showcase your work ethic would be a good addition to your school leaver CV. For example, playing football for a local team would suggest that you possess motivation and teamwork abilities and can work under pressure.

If you're not sure whether you should add a hobby or interest, always ask yourself, “will adding this help me to get the job?”. If this answer is no, it's okay to leave it out, but you may choose to draw upon it in an interview if relevant.

CV formatting guidelines for a school leaver CV

Here are a few formatting tips and tricks and general guidelines when writing a school leaver CV:

Headings: Use clear headings for each section of your CV to make the document easily digestible

Font type: Contemporary, simple font types are better as they create a modern and clean read

Font size: Keep body text between 10 and 12 point font and headings between 14 and 18

Length: Your CV should be two pages maximum. As a school leaver, it could easily be one page

Spacing: Standard 1.15 spacing is your best option on a CV

Margins: 2.5cm margins are standard, but you can decrease them to 1.5cm if you want to fit your CV nearly onto one or two pages

File type: The best CV file type is a Word document, as it will maintain formatting and an ATS will be able to read it accurately 

What not to include on a school leaver CV

There are a few details that you do not need to list on a school leaver CV. They include:

Referees: You do not need to add the line “references available upon request” at the end of your CV, as asking for references is standard recruitment practice and employers know you will have them available

Photo: You do not need to add a photo of yourself to your CV. While commonplace in other countries, it is not a requirement in the UK due to anti-discrimination legislation

Protected characteristics: You do not need to include sensitive information, such as age, race, religion or belief, marital status, sexual orientation, sex or gender reassignment, or disabilities as they are protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010

CV template for a school leaver or student

Example CV for a school leaver or student

Writing a CV for a school leaver can be daunting, especially if this is your first time producing a CV. Follow this step-by-step guide and use the examples to guide you along the way. And to save you any doubts, submit your CV for a free review and our experts will tell you if you're on the right track and on the way to job search success.

Recommended reading

How to write a CV for a 16 year old (with examples)

How to write a CV for a job with no experience

How to write a personal statement for a CV

Related Articles:

What are hard skills? List and examples to include in your CV

Breaking the taboo: discussing salary expectations with your employer

The value of critical thinking in the modern job market

See how your CV stacks up.

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Example CV and cover letter: the school leaver

This example CV and cover letter shows how a school leaver might apply for an apprenticeship.

The candidate

Andrew Campbell is finishing his fifth year at school and is looking for his first job. He’s applying to do a Modern Apprenticeship in joinery. He does not have specific experience in the field but does have some technical qualifications from school and has work experience too.

Have a look at Andrew's CV and cover letter which he has written to fit the job description.

The job description

It's important to consider the description of the job that you're applying for when creating your CV. You want to show off the skills you have that are most suitable for the job. If you do not have a specific job in mind then you should think of the type of job that you want and the skills they would need. 

This is the description for the job that Andrew is going to apply for.

Role responsibilities

You’ll be working with the Company as part of a team building new homes. The Modern Apprenticeship will last 4 years. During that time you’ll be developing your skills on the job and working alongside qualified tradespeople. You’ll also attend college regularly and work towards a qualification in construction. 

Key responsibilities: 

• helping to fit floor and roof joists, roof timbers, staircases, partition walls and door and window frames 
• work as part of a team to ensure work is completed to a high standard and on time 
• understand relevant legislation and health and safety procedures 

Role requirements

You should have: 

• good practical skills and an interest in learning a craft 
• a good eye for detail 
• the ability to follow technical drawings and plans 
• good maths skills for measuring and working out quantities and angles 
• the ability to work both as part of a team and on your own 

The cover letter

A cover letter is a way for you to introduce yourself and highlight the skills and qualities you could bring to the role.  It's a short letter, an A4 page to complement your CV and explain a little bit about who you are and why you want the job. 

Introduction

First begin with an introduction. You'll want to give a short description of who you are and why you are applying for the position.

Here is an example from Andrew's cover letter:

'I am writing to apply for the Joinery Modern Apprenticeship that was advertised on The Company website. I have also included my CV for your consideration. 

I am interested in the position as I love to make things from wood and I want to learn more about the craft. I also think that working for The Company would be a great opportunity. It would be a chance to learn from more experienced tradespeople who have worked on a range of different projects including housing developments and the new shopping centre.'

Show your skills

Relate back to the skills they've mentioned in the job description. 

It shows you’ve been paying attention and helps you explain why you’d be a good fit for the role. Showing why you're interested in the job is useful too. 

In this example, they're looking for someone with good practical skills and a good eye for detail. This is how Andrew responded:

'I think that you should consider my application as I have a good eye for detail. I am able to follow technical drawings and plans which I have learned from studying design and manufacture at school. I have also achieved a Construction Conference Certificate and the school prize for Construction Crafts. I am expected to achieve a National 5 pass in maths which will be useful when measuring out quantities and angles.'

Relevant experience

Describe things that you've done already that prove you could do the job, talk about what you did and why you did it. For example:

'I love working as part of a team which I had to do as part of a computing project in school. We had to work together to produce a presentation and present this to the rest of the class. I was able to see what it is like to be part of a team in a working environment during work experience at BSB Architecture. Equally, I also like to work on my own and do so regularly as a paper deliverer with the Local Newsagent.'

When you're signing off a cover letter, you need to use the right tone. Leave them with a sense of who you are but try not to be too casual. It's important to be respectful - but you should not be too formal either. 

Here is an example:

'I think I would be the right person for this job, as I love measuring out and working to plans in a team and also on my own.

I look forward to hearing from you to discuss the role further. 

Yours sincerely,

Andrew Campbell'

Think about your own skills and experiences

It can be difficult to know where to begin with CVs. 

The best ones start with a short, honest description of who you are as a person and what you'd have to offer in a job. If you're struggling to come up with material then why not ask a friend or a teacher how they would describe you? 

A lot of people have never had a job before. If that's you, think about what you've done in your spare time, such as:

• extracurricular activities
• subjects you've studied at school
• activities or clubs you've been a part of 
• certificates or awards you've won

You can also use our 3 core tools ( About Me ,  Strengths  and  Skills ) to help you understand yourself, your strengths and skills. They'll give you detailed results, that you can use as a base to help write your CV. You'll find them in your My World of Work account. 

Find an example of how Andrew has laid out his CV. 

Personal statement

I am in my final year of school and I am keen to complete a construction apprenticeship in joinery. I am interested in joinery as I have always been good at making things. My favourite subject at school is design and manufacture where I made a table. I also won the school prize for this. I have a keen eye for detail and good maths skills for working out measurements. 

• I can read technical drawings and interpret information from 2D to 3D. 
• I’m good at working with my hands and making things. 
• I can work well in a team and on my own. 
• I have good communication skills developed from my work experience. 

The High School, The Village - August 2010 – present 

SCQF Level 5 

• National 5 Design and Manufacture 
• National 5 Maths 
• National 5 Art and Design 
• National 5 Spanish 
• National 5 Computing Science 
• Duke of Edinburgh Leadership Award 

SCQF Level 4 

• National 4 English 
• National 4 Geography 
• National 4 Science 
• National Progression Award Construction Craft and Technician 

Local Newsagent, The Village - June 2012 to present  - Paper deliverer 

• I am responsible for the delivery of around 70 newspapers every day. 
• I have to ensure that each customer receives the correct paper and it is delivered to their door on time. 

BSB Architecture and Design, The City - October 2014 - Work experience 

• During a week’s work experience I was given the opportunity to deal with incoming calls, take messages and transfer calls to the appropriate person or department. 
• I attended meetings where designs were discussed which gave me an interesting insight into the design process. 
• I took part in a site visit and saw how the design process became a reality and how each craft and profession worked together on site. 
• I enjoy music and play bass in a band with my school friends. 
• I like to stay fit and enjoy riding my bike and spending time at the local skate park where I practise stunts. 

Achievements

Construction Conference Certificate

I was awarded a Construction Conference Certificate after I took part in a one-day event at school that was run by CITB ConstructionSkills. This gave me great insight into the industry. I also had the opportunity to use my team building skills as I participated in a Construction Simulation activity. 

Construction Crafts prize

I was awarded the school prize for Construction Crafts and the judges commented that I have excellent practical skills, an ability to solve problems and patience.  

Available upon request.

Ready to build your CV?

Now you're feeling more prepared, build your CV with our dedicated tool.

CV examples

School Leaver CV

Isabella has selected the Wheaton CV template to showcase her relevant experience for her first full-time job. Its simple format displays work experience, skills and additional experience in a easy to read manner.

"Seeking opportunities to gain valuable work experience and eager to expand skills. Committed to exceptional service as well as able to effectively contribute to team-orientated organisations."

Table of contents

How to Write a Successful School Leaver CV in 2024

Leaving school and looking for a job can be overwhelming and challenging. You may have already put considerable effort into job applications but have not had much luck with employers. At this time of your life, finding your first job can be time-consuming. If you're applying for your first job, an apprenticeship , or still figuring out your next steps, this guide is for you.

Writing an applicant tracking system-friendly CV is crucial in today's competitive job market. Choosing the right school leaver CV template can be an extra hassle, but it's undoubtedly worth it. Knowing how to write a good CV to attract employers is essential in your job search.

Everyone's experience is unique when they leave school. We can help start you career journey on the right foot and stand out from the crowd.

The CV writing process: Where to start?

Just like preparing for your first job interview, starting a CV from scratch may seem overwhelming. It is an opportunity to demonstrate your enthusiasm to find a job, develop a career, and learn new skills. Learn more about the key sections of a modern CV , from your personal profile to listing your GCSEs on a CV.

For more information, refer to the article about a master vs job-specific CV .

Get started with this CV example

School leaver cv example.

Download this School Leaver CV sample in PDF

In this CV sample, Isabella highlights her previous work experience. She has showcased her customer service and language skills to gain a competitive edge. The additional experience section outlines how she has played a key role in volunteering and organising successful community events and fundraisers. She clearly demonstrates her dedication, teamwork and leadership skills. This Wheaton CV template is well-structured, concise, and well-formatted, which looks appealing and is easy to read by recruiters.

What to include in a school leaver CV?

As seen in the school leaver CV example, you must prove you possess the necessary skills and knowledge for the role. Include the following sections:

Contact details

Relevant work or volunteer experience

Achievements

Relevant projects or coursework.

Always use a well-structured and organised format. Consider including an additional experience section to highlight hobbies, interests, school projects, awards, volunteer work, or languages.

A career in customer service or as a shop assistant has many benefits and entry-level opportunities. You can develop transferable skills and experience to apply to future roles. Read our part-time job CV example to learn more.

How to write a personal profile on a school leaver CV

Start your CV with an attention-grabbing positive, and energetic summary. Introduce yourself and highlight practical qualities like motivation, work ethic, and time-management skills. These qualities showcase showcase your ambition, commitment and initiative. If you have no work experience, focus on transferable skills in your profile instead.

The personal profile should create a positive impression tailored to the job requirements. Highlight relevant skills and any (academic) achievements. Keep your profile within six lines, considering your relevant experience and design of your school leaver CV template.

Use this section to explain your long-term career goals or passion for the industry. For more inspiration, read how to write a personal profile on your CV.

Customer Service CV Personal Profile Example

Energetic and customer-focused school leaver with a passion for delivering exceptional service. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills demonstrated through previous volunteering and a work placement in the retail industry. Strong problem-solving abilities, with the ability to multi-task and manage time effectively. Quick learner, adaptable, and eager to contribute to a customer-centric team. Dedicated to providing positive experiences and building lasting relationships with customers.

School Leaver CV with No Experience Personal Profile Example

Proactive school leaver with a strong desire to become a Teaching Assistant. Demonstrated leadership through community service and volunteering. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills from public speaking and debate clubs. Proven dedication and strong work ethic with consistent academic achievements. Additional experience includes tutoring, assisting teachers, and participating in mentoring programs. Eager to develop professional skills in education and contribute to a learning environment.

Healthcare CV Personal Profile Example

Passionate school leaver eager to enter the healthcare sector through an Intermediate Apprenticeship (Level 2) after GCSEs. Aspire to train as a healthcare support worker assistant and aim to advance to an Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3). Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with experience engaging with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Previous volunteer work at local nursing homes and involvement in community outreach programs has instilled a genuine desire to support and improve the lives of others.Committed to positively impacting individuals’ well-being and pursuing a rewarding healthcare career.

Learn more about how to write a healthcare CV.

Looking to create a professional CV?

What skills to put on a school leaver cv.

Include a combination of hard and soft skills that covers everything mentioned in the job advert. When applying for your first job showcasing your skills through your education, volunteer experience, or hobbies and interests is beneficial. As with your personal profile, try giving examples of skills in the job advert relevant to your career goals.

A customer service role such as waiter/waitress or bartender requires cash handling, product knowledge, and time-management skills. Soft skills such as problem-solving, communication and active listening are important interact with customers, resolve conflicts, and manage transactions.

Job hunting often requires sending out numerous applications before hearing back from hiring managers. Since you have little to no experience, your CV skills' section will likely focus on soft skills. Once you start working, you will gain more technical and hard skills.

Highlight transferable skills from school projects, coursework, hobbies, or volunteering . You can develop your hard skills through additional courses or other relevant experience.

For more information, refer to our article on what skills to put on a CV.

How to write work experience on a school leaver CV

Writing a CV without work experience may feel like hard work, but it's possible to impress potential employers without it. If you do not have any previous work experience, list your transferable skills first. Consider creating a skills-based CV to show hiring managers how you can offer value to their company. If you have any relevant work experience, even for a short period, this can significantly enhance your CV.

Here are some tips to keep in mind for the work experience section:

Include any paid work experience, volunteer or internships.

Begin with your most recent job with accurate job titles, followed by all other roles in reverse chronological order.

Avoid including outdated experience; use this in an additional experience section and remove dates.

Include keywords relevant to the job application.

Provide measurable outcomes or key academic achievements from school, work placement, volunteering or internships in a bullet point format.

Emphasise transferable skills from relevant studies or other activities such as volunteering or hobbies. Keep this section short, clear and brief, focusing on the job you are targeting.

Enhance your CV with volunteering activities to add a dash of experience. This can also show your passion for a cause or organisation.Learn more about volunteer opportunities on the UK Government website.

Work experience CV example

Shop and Fundraising Volunteer, Mind Charity, London, UK, 2019-2020

Collaborate effectively with a diverse team to organise and execute fundraising events. Engage and interact with team members, beneficiaries, and visitors, demonstrating strong communication skills. Assist with event preparation, participate in training sessions, and contribute to a positive work environment. Motivate fellow volunteers, maintain morale, and provide customer support.

Successfully raised £800k through collaborative fundraising efforts, contributing to the charity's financial goals.

Assisted with implementing an efficient event planning system, resulting in a 10% increase in event productivity.

Received recognition from the charity for outstanding customer service skills.

In this 16-year-old CV example for work experience, highlighted are essential skills and qualities. There are references to soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. This demonstrates to potential employers an ability to contribute effectively to a team, handle challenges, and positively impact others. Learn more about how to write a CV with no experience.

If you have no work experience, use this gap as an opportunity to be proactive. Try volunteering with a local charity or business to gain some experience.

For more tips on this section, refer to our article on how to write work experience and achievements .

Education section on a school leavers CV: How to include it?

Including all relevant information about your education is essential. Listing education should include the following:

Name of your school or college

Year of attendance

Grades awarded from GCSEs, A Levels (England), or Highers (Scotland)

Any special awards you may received.

If applicable, add any other activities you participated in, such as sports teams, clubs or community volunteer work.

The education section will likely take priority if you have little to no work experience. But make sure you keep this section brief and concise. If your school grades are particularly relevant to the job you are applying for, it may be worth expanding on them. Such as including your A* Maths GCSE if you are applying for a bookkeeper role.

Here are some tips to consider:

List your most recent grades first such as GCSEs or Highers or BTECS.

Only include relevant education, such as GCSEs or A Levels, school name, and date. If you studied your GCSEs and A Levels at the same school, list them in one entry.

If you are still a student , you can put predicted grades on your CV.

How to format education your CV with examples

A-levels, BTEC, and NVQ:

[ School Name], [ School Location], [ Years Attended]

[ Qualification] [ Subject Name 1], [ Subject Name 2], [ Subject Name 3]

CVMaker School, Manchester, UK, 2016-2018

Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science

[ n] GCSEs (including Mathematics and English)

CVMaker School, Birmingham, UK, 2014-2016

10 GCSEs (including Mathematics and English)

Scottish Highers template:

Scottish Highers: [ Qualifications]

N5s: [ Qualifications]

CVMaker School, Edinburgh, 2015–2020

Highers: Maths (A), Physics (B), Chemistry (A), Computing Science (A)

N5s: English (C), Maths (A), Geography (B),  (A), Chemistry (A), Computing Science (B)

We recommend gathering references from your school teachers, tutors, or career counsellors. Add these details to your master CV and use your references if requested during an interview.

For extra guidance on this section, refer to our article about how to write education on your CV .

How to list courses and certificates on a school leaver CV

Courses and certificates can bring your CV to life and show your potential, especially if you have yet to gain experience. Courses are an additional section that will complement your hard skills and professional experience sections.

If there is a particular industry you want to work in , consider completing a course to develop your knowledge and skills. You will demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and it can set you apart from other candidates. For more inspiration, find a course with the National Careers Service .

List all relevant courses you have taken throughout your secondary and higher education. We advise keeping courses and certificates as brief as possible and keeping them one to two lines .

Courses and certificates CV examples for 16-year-old CV:

First Aid Certification, St. John Ambulance, 2021

Health and Safety in the Workplace, CVMaker Training Institute, 2020

Digital Marketing Fundamentals, Google Digital Garage, 2019

Introduction to Coding, Codecademy, 2018

Looking for courses can help you reach your career goals faster. Research the job requirements and determine if a course could leverage your application. Consider taking an online course if you would prefer to gain a certificate at home.

Learn more about how to list courses and certificates in your CV .

How to list hobbies and interests on a school leaver CV

Choose activities that align with your skills, interests, and career goals. This section is perfect for adding to your, as it will help you stand out.

School leaver CV examples for hobbies and interests include:

Volunteering

Community projects

Include activities that align with the requirements in the job description. These types of activites demonstrate you have the teamwork, leadership, organisation and communication skills that the employer might be looking for.

Key takeaways

Writing your first CV can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you're a recent student entering the workforce. But by following this guide, crafting a well-written CV and cover letter is much easier than before. This guide will help you step closer to your dream job, even without work experience. We understand that finding work is stressful in the current job market.

Next steps?

If you need some additional help, explore our CV Writing Service to save time. Our team of experts can assist in crafting a professionally polished school leaver CV tailored to your career goals. We also offer over 20 professional templates ready-made for you. Explore our blog for more ideas on achieving your dream career goals and finding your first job.

How to make a CV for a school leaver?

Your CV should focus on your education, transferable skills, and additional experiences such as courses, other activities, hobbies and interests. Use this step-by-step guide on making a CV for a school leaver in the UK.

How long should your school leaver CV be?

In general, your CV should be no longer than two pages. Avoid unnecessary details and only include relevant information, such as your education, transferable skills, and any relevant experience or achievements. Remember to use clear, concise language and highlight key points effectively. Learn more about CV length .

What is the best CV template for a school leaver CV?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the best school leaver CV UK template. It ultimately depends on your personal style and the job you're applying to. We recommend a clean and professional template with a clear structure.

How to add work projects to a school leaver CV?

Adding work projects to your CV is a practical way to showcase their relevant skills in a practical context. Include educational projects completed in secondary school for GCSEs or A Levels (England), Highers (Scotland), if relevant to your job application. We recommend adding work projects from school in your education section or additional experience.

How to write a CV for a 16-year-old school leaver in the UK?

You probably don't have a lot of work experience to add or a lengthy list of qualifications so leverage other sections. We suggest creating a compelling personal profile, highlighting a combination of skills, and including your achievements.

How to write a CV for a 16-year-old school leaver with no experience?

Writing your CV as a 16-year-old school leaver can be challenging. We suggest using a skills-based approach focusing on key skills and core competencies. Bring them to the top of the document instead of your employment history. Ensure the details are concise, easy to read, and relevant to the job you are applying to.

Learn more about your career options as a 16-year old school leaver here.

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School leaver CV example

As a school leaver you might not have much in the way of work experience but it's important not to sell yourself short when applying for a job. Take a look at our example school leaver CV to find out how to present yourself in the best light

Ellie Johnson 15 That Street, Thistown, XY99 9XP [email protected] 07777 888999

I'm planning a business degree, either part-time through an apprenticeship or on a full-time course. My aim is to go into finance. An online business summer school showed me what a vast and varied world this is. During my work experience, I saw how different jobs fit together in a finance department and how a company plans its finances and runs its business systems in the short, medium and long term. My part-time job at Big Stores gives me practical experience in a small branch of a large organisation.

Education and Qualifications

Thistown Central Academy - A-levels (2022)

Business A, Maths B, Computer Science B

GCSEs - Grades 9-4 (2020)

English  Language, French, Spanish, PE, Art and Design, Computer Science, History, Maths, Combined Science                 

Employment and Work Experience

Big Stores Minimart (2021 - present)

Starting as a shelf stacker I progressed to till operator and am now a team leader. I contribute to:

• Staff shift pattern, including early mornings and lates, making sure all areas are covered
• Security of premises, sometimes unlocking and locking up, including cash handling
• Customer service, including complaints and returns
• Monitoring sell-by dates and minimising waste, reordering and stock control.

Thistown College Business and Finance Summer School (July 2022)

Five-day online programme covering:

• Business models, economic theory and concepts, marketing and business strategy
• Seminars with business leaders
• Group work presentation on a business case study.

Thistown Engineering Ltd, Finance Department (July 2021)

Two weeks work experience in the finance department of a local SME:

• Helping with the migration of financial information across IT systems, using my IT skills
• Spending a day in different areas of the department, including shadowing the finance director.

Year 13 Charity Rep on School Council (2021-2022)

Working with reps from other year groups to organise the school’s charity fundraising. I was involved in:

• Getting suggestions from my year group about charities to support and which events to run
• Planning events and organising volunteers to help
• Being responsible for cash during events
• Reporting back to the Head after each event (what we learned, how would we do it next time).

References available on request

Please be aware that this is an example. Use it as a template to help generate ideas and structure your own CV but avoid copying and pasting. Your own CV needs to be original and tailored to the job you're applying for.

As a school leaver you might not have a lot of experience to flesh out your CV with, but employers don't expect someone who's just left school to have a massive amount of experience so don't worry about the length of your CV. Most CVs are two pages long but as a recent school leaver yours might only be one. As you gain experience, you'll be able to add to it.

Your personal profile should sit at the top of the page. Use it to summarise your 'best bits' - and tailor it for each application. It can be easier to write this after you've set out the other information so if you're struggling come back to this last.

As always, presentation is important so don't leave a couple of lines trailing onto another page. You can adjust the spacing, font size, margins etc depending on whether you have a lot to squeeze in, or less to say, which might need spacing out to fill the page.

Make sure every word counts and that all the relevant information is there. If you don't include it, no-one will know about it. However, it's just as important to consider what to leave out. Ask yourself 'Will this help me get a job?'   Include relevant hobbies, for example, caring for a family member on a nursing application or DIY projects for a construction apprenticeship. Socialising with friends is best left off. We all enjoy that, but it's unlikely to get you a job.

It's important to try and show what you've gained from your experiences, rather than just listing what you did - remember to relate the skills and knowledge you've gained to the job you're applying for.

Find out more

• View all example CVs .
• Discover  how to write a CV .
• Learn how to avoid the  top 7 CV mistakes .
• Take a look at how to write a personal statement for your CV .

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Home » CV Templates » School leaver CV template (2021)

School leaver CV template (2021)

CV template details:

• CV ref: #197
• File size: 20kb
• File format: .docx (MS Word)
• File name: School-Leaver-CV.docx
• Fonts required: The example uses Times New Roman but any professional font could be used.
• Price: Free download
• ATS CV: Yes*

About this CV template:

Our school leaver CV template offers real examples of the types of 'experience' you can include, even if you haven't had any formal work experience.

* Every effort has been made to design this CV template according to best practice so that your information can be read by ATS software correctly. However, all Applicant Tracking Systems are different and no guarantees can be offered.

Click here to view a preview of this CV template (PDF)

Click here for our CV editing guide

Don't like this CV template? Find another:

Review this cv template:, text preview of this cv template:.

This is a text-only preview - download the formatted Word file using the link above.

123, The Street, Nottingham NG1 234

07984 182182 ~ [email protected]

Personal statement

I am an 18 year old school leaver with an excellent academic record and strong soft skills acquired through a range of extra-curricular projects. I am confident dealing with the public, serving customers and resolving complaints. My strong communication skills, excellent presentation and friendly outlook make me well-suited to a customer facing role. I am looking for a full time position in a service business.

• I have developed strong communication skills from launching and managing my own community project together with various part time roles, coaching and refereeing. I am able to deal with the public effectively, resolve conflicts and speak clearly in groups.
• I have a very good level of literacy and numeracy, achieving As for most of my maths assignments.
• I am a confident written communicator and I have developed my written skills through freelancing in the local area.
• I had an excellent attendance record at school and my extra-curricular projects have demonstrated that I am reliable and trustworthy.
• I am IT literate with a typing speed of 45wpm and the ability to use most basic software packages to an intermediate level (Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint).

Freelance writer (January 2017 – date)

I am a confident writer, having prepared pages and blogs for my family’s business. In 2017 I started taking on freelance writing jobs for local firms, supporting both their website and print media content needs. I have completed 35 paid projects over the past two years, building my skills in written communication.

Browns Café, Nottingham Auctions (2016 – 2018)

For the past three years I have helped my mother to run the food and drinks cafe twice a month at the local Auctions. This involves serving customers, taking payment and giving change. I was given the responsibility of managing the café alone on numerous occasions and did so with confidence. Dealing with members of the public has developed my ability to speak with clarity, to listen carefully and to handle customer complaints.

Assistant Referee, Nottingham Woods Junior Football Squad (2016 – 2018)

Since 2016 I have acted as Assistant Referee to the local junior football team each Saturday. I also coach the junior team for half an hour before each match. This opportunity has helped me to develop a very wide range of skills including effective mentoring, clear communication, dispute resolution and attention to detail.

Keep the Green Clean (June 2015 – date)

I started a ‘Keep the Green Clean’ campaign in my village in June 2015. This included raising funds at local events, designing and distributing posters and leaflets to local businesses, and organising regular groups of local people to keep our village green clean. In driving this project forward, I have further developed my communication and leadership skills.

Young Entrepreneur Scheme (2016 –2018)

I took part in my school’s Young Entrepreneur scheme for three years. This involved making items such as Fimo jewellery to sell and running a stall every break time. Each year we have raised over £1,000 for local charities. Working with 9 other students, the project developed my problem-solving, communication and teamwork skills, and required a strong work ethic as tasks had to be completed outside of school time.

ABC Accountants (2014 – 2018)

During the school holidays I worked for 2 days each week at my father’s business, an accountancy firm. Tasks included typing, filing and taking post to the post office. Given the nature of the business, this placement required good organisation skills and attention to detail.

St John’s Ambulance (2013 – date)

I have been a St John’s Ambulance cadet since I was 13 and I regularly attend the local football team’s matches to provide first aid support alongside the St John’s Ambulance team. This helped me develop confidence in dealing with the public, working in a team, active listening and quick decision making where incidents occurred.

ABC College, Nottingham

2017 – 2019

A Levels in English (B), Maths (C) and Physics (C)

Attendance: 98.3%

ABC Academy, Nottingham

2013 – 2017

GCSEs in English (A), Maths (A), Physics (A), Geography (C), Economics (C), Biology (C), Business Studies (C), Graphic Design (C) and Art (C)

Attendance: 99.5%

Hobbies and interests

In addition to my various projects, I am also a brown belt in Aikido and attend classes on Monday evenings.

References  

Mary Jones, Form Tutor, ABC Academy, 456 The Street, Nottingham NG1 234

Claire Riley, St John’s Ambulance supervisor, 789 The Street, Nottingham NG1 234

Template details:

This school leaver CV template has a simple layout and includes lots of examples to help you put together your first CV. It is a two-page design that is flexible and easy-to-edit, should you only require one section or should you need to add in more headings.

In this guide we explain exactly what to include in each section of your school leaver CV:

Personal contact information

The employer needs to know your name (!) and have some way of contacting you. Start your CV off by providing your first and last name, and contact details (address, email and telephone number). Your name should typically be in a larger font and sit above your contact information.

Only provide a contact number that you can either answer instantly, or that will allow the employer to leave you an answer message that you can reply back to quickly. The answer message should be clear and concise, whilst remaining professional. Include your name in the message so there is no doubt they’ve rang the right number.

Use a professional email address – ideally your name. Avoid providing an email address that’s silly or meant to be a joke – [email protected] may not be as hilarious to the employer as it is to you. You need to take your application seriously, which means funny emails are definitely a bad idea.

EXAMPLE CONTACT SECTION:

This is sometimes called a career objective or personal profile.

It should be a snappy paragraph of about 2 – 4 lines which covers:

• Who you are
• What makes you suitable for the job (LOOK at the job advert!)
• What you’re looking for

EXAMPLE PERSONAL STATEMENT FOR A SCHOOL LEAVER CV:

With a school-leaver’s CV, it’s quite normal to see the skills section following the personal objective. This is because the CV is usually skills-focused in the absence of a great deal of work experience.

As a recent school leaver you may not have too many hard skills to add to your CV, and most employers at this stage will be expecting evidence of soft skills you’ve acquired that can be transferred to the workplace.

What is a soft skill?

Unlike a hard skill which is very specific (computer programming, Microsoft Office, fork lift truck driver), a soft skill refers to daily interactions and communication skills. A soft skill could also be described as a personal trait or attribute.

Interacting with others on a project, meeting deadlines, punctuality, team working skills, a strong work ethic – all of these are types of soft skills that an employer expects a school leaver to have to a good standard, in order to function effectively in a working environment.

Avoid merely stating on your CV that you have these skills without backing them up. An employer has no reason to believe your claims, and would always want to see proof via your education or prior voluntary/work experience.

How to prove your skills on a school leaver CV:

• Look back over the past few years and think of times when you had to use these skills and how those soft skills affected something positively – a school project, an essay, a dissertation (e.g. conducted research and met deadlines, writing skills), a presentation (e.g. communication). Give examples.
• Voluntary or part time work is a fantastic way of gaining those soft skills and will always look great on a school leavers CV, as it shows that you already have experience of a working environment. Again, use examples from that experience to show that you have already built up some of the important soft skills required to be efficient in a work place.
• Taking part in community projects are another way you can hone your soft skills and demonstrate them to an employer.
• Being a team leader, whether as part of a band or sports team, also demonstrates valuable skills employers are looking for.
• If you have hard skills such as programming, graphic design or writing, freelancing is a great way to build these into work experience you can give on your CV. Try sites such as People Per Hour and Fiverr to gain some experience.
• This  section works well bullet pointed to make it easier to read.

EXAMPLE SKILLS SECTION FOR A SCHOOL LEAVER CV :

Your potential employer won’t expect much formal experience for a school leaver job applicant. However, you are likely to have at least some non-traditional experience which can demonstrate skills that are transferable to the world of work.

If you have little to include, consider volunteering at a local charity shop or country park. Not only will you learn and develop lots of soft skills, you will also have some experience to add to your CV. An employer will always look favourably on a CV that has voluntary work. It shows that the candidate is happy to give up their free time to help a good cause, and is clearly someone who isn’t afraid of hard work.

You should always make good use of your spare time whilst you’re seeking employment or a training program. Trying to explain a gap between your education and seeking employment could be tricky, and the longer it takes to find employment the longer the gap gets!

Our school leaver’s example template has a range of examples. In practice, you’ll be unlikely to have quite so much experience! We’ve included a larger-than-typical section so you can see the type of experience that might be included.

EXAMPLE EXPERIENCE SECTION FOR A SCHOOL LEAVER CV :

If you do have a range of experience, you don’t have to list it chronologically. Andrew Fennell for the Guardian explains, where possible you should:

“Be selective when choosing the first roles you list to make sure recruiters can instantly see that you have relevant experience.”

One approach to the education section is to simply list all of your subjects and grades. This is fine if you have a fair bit to include in the skills and experience section.

If your experience and skills section is rather thin, a good approach is to expand on your achievements whilst in education. Highlight parts of your education (and grades) which are mandatory to apply for the role, or may be of interest to the employer.

Consider providing examples of your work and what you learned. For example:

• If you were applying for a role that required great writing skills, then you could consider attaching a copy of an essay or dissertation.
• Did you build a website or created some video content for a project at college? Provide a link for the hiring manager.
• Are good communication skills required for the role? Give details of a presentation you had to give at school, college or university.

Try to make everything as relevant as possible to the job you are applying for, so the employer can quickly see that you can apply skills that are transferable to their company.

Study the job advert to gain a further insight into what the employer is looking for. What types of soft skills would the employer need you to have? Focus upon these skills within your CV and how you achieved them during your education.

EXAMPLE – SIMPLE EDUCATION SECTION FOR A SCHOOL LEAVER CV :

EXAMPLE – MORE DETAILED EDUCATION SECTION FOR A SCHOOL LEAVER CV :

Hobbies and interests section

Although this section is not mandatory you could still use it to add value and credibility to your CV. However, be careful not to bore the employer with the standard hobbies such as going to the cinema, reading a book, and socialising on weekends with friends (the latter simply suggests a Monday morning hangover!)

The types of hobbies which would add value to your CV and potentially further demonstrate your soft skills are:

• Sports (communication, hard work, dedication and fitness)
• Music (creative, confidence, and performance)
• Arts and creative hobbies
• Website building (IT skills)
• Captain of sports team (leadership)
• Journalism (writing), and so on.

The hobbies section of your CV is often seen as the least important, and whilst this is true it doesn’t mean to say that you can’t take advantage of it. Remember, as a recent school leaver you may be struggling to complete a two page CV. Every section should be looked at as another way to add more value to your application.

Don’t be afraid to get creative when it comes to your hobbies, and delve deeper into what you like to do outside of work. There are lots of soft skills to be showcased within your hobbies – communication, writing skills, team work, leadership, and so on.

Are you struggling to see how your hobby adds value to your CV?

Grab a pen and paper and jot down your hobby or hobbies. What soft skills would you need in order to partake? Do you have to communicate with people in order to achieve success – like scoring a goal in football or a try in rugby? Why did you get chosen as the captain of your sports team?

Another fantastic way of allowing the employer to see more of your personality is to provide links to achievements. For example, if you play in a band you could provide a link to a YouTube video or your social media page. Playing in a band also shows confidence, which is a fantastic trait to have as a recent school leaver.

The final section of your CV will give two references. These might be, for example:

• Your school tutor or head of house
• If you’ve been volunteering, your supervisor
• If you’re involved in a sports team, the organiser / manager

For each reference, provide a name, address and email / phone number. Make sure you check with each person first that they are happy to provide the reference!

The finished school leaver CV : example

Here’s a complete example of a school leaver’s CV template, which you can download above:

NB: This CV template was originally published on 15th March 2019 and has been updated for 2021.

You may also find the following helpful for examples of how to write alternative types of experience on your CV:

Here are some other helpful templates and examples when writing a CV for a work experience placement:

• All student CV templates and guide
• Full guide on writing a CV with little or no experience (lots of examples)
• Apprenticeship CV example
• Example of a CV for a student in university
• CV for teenager: free CV template for a 13, 14 or 15 year old
• Alternative student CV template
• Work experience CV
• Skills based CV
• CV for a part time job (skills based)

Jen Wiss-Carline has been a Senior Manager and Consultant for several sizeable companies which included dealing with all aspects of staff management and recruitment. She is also a Solicitor and Chartered Legal Executive, having been admitted as a Fellow in February 2006.

7 thoughts on “School leaver CV template (2021)”

I don’t know what to write for the personal statement. I got my GCSES. I am 16 so not school leave age. But I don’t want to write that!

Hi Tom! Have a look at the example content. You could start with something like: “I am a 16 year old school leaver with [strong / excellent / good] academic results and strong soft skills acquired through [my studies / voluntary work / community projects / participating in sports]. Replace the words in brackets with something appropriate to you. Remember that most employers won’t expect school leavers to have a great deal of work experience! Your goal is to show them you have the soft skills that are needed to do the job. Have a think about what those might be (the job advert should give you clues) and how you’ve acquired them. The strongest CVs always show employers how the skills were acquired, rather than simply claiming to have them.

okay thanks yeah i’ve played in the local football team since I was maybe 8 so can I use that? I also work for my dad maybe like once every couple of weeks in his shop but he doesn’t pay me? (i think he should haha)

Playing sports will have helped you build a lot of soft skills that employers want to see. So that opening line might be: “I am a 16 year old school leaver with [excellent / good] academic results and strong soft skills acquired through helping in the family business and participating in my local football team.” (That’s just the first line – have a look at the guide for help writing the rest of it). Then under ‘Experience’ you can include both playing in the team and working in the shop under separate headers. So playing in the team might say, “I have played in my local football team since I was 8 years old. This has helped me develop my teamwork skills as I motivate other participants and assist the team with scoring goals! I also help lead the team as one of the more senior members. Playing football has also helped my strategic development and organisational skills. Each game requires a game plan and strategies to win. This means coordinating the team to ensure our efforts are effective and efficient. Finally, I’ve developed by self discipline and understanding. To be an effective team member I have to recognise the challenge at hand, my contributions to the team and make necessary improvements individually.” Obviously you’ll need to adapt this to your own circumstances but I hope this example gives you some ideas of how school leavers can demonstrate their skills, rather than just say they have them.

Wow! thanks so much that helps

Thank you for this helpful template

I don’t know what to write for the personal statement. I got my Grade 12result. I am 20 years old and i worked in my brothers shop as sells assistant

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School Leaver CV: How To Write A School Leaver CV

Writing a school leaver CV can feel tough at times – after all, you’ve just been through school, so how are you meant to write almost a page about your work history?

Well the good news is that you don’t have to, although any work experience you do happen to have is, of course, a bonus.

On a school leaver CV, you can focus more on your educational achievements, skills, ambitions, and even your hobbies.

You could also try to find a local volunteering role, perhaps at a nearby charity shop, to show some proactivity on your school leaver CV. 

In fact, 82% of people with responsibility for hiring say they’re more likely to choose a candidate with volunteering experience, according to Deloitte.

Here’s how to write a school leaver CV without worrying about whether you have enough experience yet.

School leaver CV format

Don’t worry if you haven’t any paid employment experience to write about – usually, a CV for a school leaver doesn’t have anything to include here.

Once you’ve taken your first step on the career ladder, you can start thinking of using a CV with a chronological employment history format. 

For now, a functional or skills-based CV template is much more likely to meet your needs.

This format emphasises your skills and achievements from your educational, personal or professional life, while de-emphasising the focus on work history.

Contact details and personal statement

At the top of your school leaver CV, put your contact information including your name, phone number and email address.

You might have your own website or online portfolio of articles or photographs – if it’s relevant to the job you want, you can add the link here too.

Next, write a short personal statement . This should be tailored to the role you’re applying for and summarise your most relevant achievements, strengths and career ambitions.

For a school leaver CV, just three to four sentences should be long enough – quality over quantity – but try to support your claims with examples if possible.

Often, it’s easier to only write this part once the rest of your CV is complete. 

Skills and education sections

Your skills section can consist of:

• Hard skills: these are quantifiable and specific e.g. qualifications or achievements, completed courses or foreign language experience
• Soft skills: these are more personal, relating to individual characteristics or qualities e.g. problem solving or leadership

For soft skills in particular, try to back these up with an example.

In your education section, include your number and level of subject grades (or expected grades), as well as any other academic achievements from GCSE level onwards.

If you have A-Levels (or equivalent), start with these and then go in reverse chronological order back to your GCSEs. 

Depending on which part looks stronger, you can choose whether to put your skills or education section first on a CV for a school leaver.

Work experience and volunteering sections (optional)

Either, or both, of these can be omitted if you don’t have any work or volunteering experience to write about.

If you do, cover these in reverse chronological order, including details such as the company or charity name, your role and the dates you worked or volunteered there.

Then list any relevant responsibilities, ideally tailored to the job description. For example, if you’re applying for a receptionist role, mention any customer service experience you have.

You could also sign off by writing ‘references available on request’ at the end of your school leaver CV, something which you won’t need to do in future years. Read our blog for more information about putting references on your CV .

In general, seeking out volunteering opportunities is a great way to demonstrate your proactivity and lengthen your school leaver CV if you haven’t had any work experience yet. 

Hobbies and interests

Later in your career, this final part will be brief. However, on a school leaver CV, it’s a nice chance to show employers how the things you do in your spare time make you a good fit for the role.

As before, try to only include hobbies and interests that are relevant.

For example, music grades could help show that you’re used to practising a skill and then performing it under pressure.

Group sports could also allude to good communication or teamwork skills – but leave out any pastimes which have no relevance to working, like ‘seeing my friends’.

You could also sign off by writing ‘references available on request’ at the end of your school leaver CV, something which you won’t need to do in future years . 

If your application is successful and you’re asked for a reference, but don’t have any work or volunteering experience, then one of your teachers could be a good option for a referee.

Final thoughts: how to write a school leaver CV

That’s how to write a CV for a school leaver – focus on your skills and education to date. 

Don’t worry if you have to leave out the work experience section, but think about how you could impress employers by being proactive, perhaps by volunteering or taking a course.

To stand out from the crowd, you could consider writing a cover letter – even if you’re not asked for one – to show employers just how ambitious you are.

For more information about work and internship opportunities after leaving school, there are lots of resources out there – start by visiting the relevant National Careers Service pages .

If you have any questions for us about writing a school leaver CV – or if you’d like us to write your CV – then please don’t hesitate to get in touch .

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CV Personal Statement:  Examples and Actionable Tips

Fact: recruiters spend only 6 seconds reviewing each CV. So poorly organized CVs inevitably get discarded. 

Having an effective CV layout is the first step to attracting their attention. And the second step is topping that CV with a compelling personal statement (also known as a personal profile, personal summary, or executive summary).

What is a Personal Statement in a CV? 

A personal statement for a CV is a short and compelling paragraph that summarizes why you’re the most qualified person for the offered role. It tells the reader who you are and what valuable qualifications you will be bringing to their company.

NB : Opening statement, personal profile, personal summary, or executive summary are the other common names for a personal statement. 

Many believe that the work experience section is the most important element of a CV. Yet, it is your personal statement that can end up making or breaking the success of your job application. 

Because it provides the reader with a quick answer to one question they have on their mind: Are you qualified for the job or not? 

Remember: You’ll be directly competing with numerous other applicants with similar skills and work experiences. A compelling CV statement sets you apart by giving the reader a condensed snapshot of who you are as a person. 

Do I Need To Include a Personal Statement On My CV?

The short answer is YES! A personal statement entices the reader to read your entire CV by giving them a preview of your most valuable skills. It also helps you differentiate from other candidates by explaining your background, motivation, and personal character traits concisely. 

In essence, a personal statement helps you express why you are the right choice for the job in one condensed paragraph.

Where Should a Personal Statement Go in a CV?

A personal statement goes into the header area of your CV. Include it right under your name and contact details as a separate, highlighted area. A good personal statement is about 3-4 sentences long and occupies not more than 1/4th of the page. 

Alternatively, you can design a two-column CV and allocate the upper sidebar area for your personal statement. As a recent survey found, 77% of recruiters prefer two-column CVs to single-column ones.

Sample personal statement placement on a CV template

What Do You Write in a CV Personal Statement?

A compelling personal statement summarizes your professional and educational background; highlights the main skills and accomplishments. It can also express your career objectives and/or interest in the particular industry or subject if you’re a current student or recent graduate.  

Personal Statement Examples for CV 

To give you an idea of how to write your statement, let’s look at some examples.

Remember: You need to write a unique personal statement for your CV. Simply copying and using these examples may not be the best move because the sample CV statements won’t reflect your unique experiences and personality. 

Good CV Personal Statement Examples

Employers want to see experts. Therefore, your personal statement must speak directly to your most marketable skills. 

You should never come off sounding desperate or diminish your worth (even if you have been recently laid off ). Use a confident tone with first-person implied and strong verbs to describe your core competencies and other benefits you can bring to the workplace. 

General Jobseeker Personal Statement Example

Highly motivated, fully trained engineer with 15 years of experience in the telecoms industry. Worked with XYZ Telecoms Ltd, Cool Mobile Carrier, and Acme Telco as a field engineer and project team leader. Successfully managed large commercial telecom infrastructure installations. Currently unemployed due to the relocation of the company. Open to new opportunities in NOC. 

Personal Statement CV Example For an Administration Position 

Adaptable and resourceful facilities manager with experience in supporting enterprise-sized organizations in real estate, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing industries. Strong organizational skillset: Six Sigma, standardized method of procedure (MOP) policies implementation. Was responsible for facilities operations on 2.4 million square feet in a 20-building chemical manufacturing campus, serviced by a 20+ people team of building engineers, electricians, HVAC technicians, and cleaners.

Accountant Personal Statement CV Examples

Below are two samples for a senior and a junior accountant. 

Chartered Accountant 

ACCA-certified accountant for mid-market and enterprise-sized companies. Conducted due diligence and tax audits for FTSE 500 companies. Commenced for a 100% accuracy track record in financial reporting, as well as fast turnaround on complex analytical reviews. Provide on-demand advisory on trust setup, company incorporation, and tax deferrals. 

Account Assistant 

Detail-oriented, certified accounting assistant with experience in payroll administration. Familiar with Gusto, Xero, and Intuit software. Effectively process payroll, benefits, taxes, and social contributions for over 1500 employees per month. Possess a strong foundation in employee classification,  tax reporting, and financial management. 

CV Personal Statement Examples for Students

Whether you’re applying for an internship or looking for a part-time job , a compelling personal is a must-have for a student CV. 

Since your work experience history may be a bit “thin”, you need to persuade the employer via other means — your transferable skills, academic interests, and personal traits. A personal CV allows you to spotlight all of these. 

Remember that you are bringing your energy, dedication, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn to the table. As you will not have any employment history, you need to make sure to get your personality and your soft skills over in your statement.

CV Statement for a Student Looking for a Full-Time Summer Job 

Junior copywriter, enrolled in a BA Writing Program at the University of Manchester (graduation date: fall 2025). Alumni of the 2022 Copywriting Bootcamp program from Matters Agency. Well-versed in target audience analysis, brand positioning, and editorial campaign planning. Writing clips for eCommerce and SaaS brands are available in my portfolio.  

CV Statement for an Internship 

Second-year mechanical engineering student at the University of Leeds, seeking to apply theoretical knowledge in safety system design. Proficient in AutoCAD and completed a series of blueprints for fire and water safety systems as part of my coursework. Fast learner, self-starter, and team player, I’m excited to contribute my technical expertise to a dynamic engineering team.

CV Statement for a Student Looking for a Part-Time Job 

Junior front-end developer (React, Angular JS), seeking a part-time programming position in the Great London area. Current availability is 10-15 hours per week, preferably with hybrid work arrangements. Solid understanding of design systems and UX/UI best practices. Past work experience in finance and eCommerce sectors. 

CV Personal Statement Examples for 16-Year-Olds

Joining the workforce straight after high school makes sense if you want to take a gap year or pursue trade education later on. The wrinkle, however, is that most employers may be wary of your age and lack of experience.

The goal of a personal statement is to dispel those doubts by showing that you’re a serious, mature, and hard-working candidate, eager to learn and hone your craft. 

Personal Statement for a Barista Position 

Genuine coffee lover and frequent guest at Maddie’s Cafe, I would love to join the barista team. As a former head of the prom planning committee, I understand the importance of good teamwork, efficient planning, and following instructions. My main objectives are to learn more about beverage prep and deliver exceptional experiences to customers. 

CV Personal Statement Examples For A Graduate

Your personal statement should focus on your main educational attainments and experiences. If you are applying before you have had your degree results, it is fine to give a projected grade. You can also mention any specific modules you have studied that are relevant to the job on offer and how much you enjoyed working on them.

Remember: Your goal is to explain why you’re interested in this role and what you could bring to the table. 

Graduate Personal Statement Example

Business administration graduate with a 1:1 honors degree from XYZ University. Interested in an entry-level merchandising position within your Commercial Sales Department to expand my knowledge in retail merchandising, procurement, and inventory management. Looking to apply my analytical and data modeling skills for merchandising strategy optimization. 

Personal Statement for High School Graduate 

Energetic and enthusiastic high school graduate (June 2023) with top A-levels grades in English, Maths, and French. Seeking an entry-level role in sales, where I can make use of and develop my language skills. My long-term career goal is to further my language qualifications and position myself as a European sales manager living and working overseas for a global company.

Personal Statement Examples for CV With No Experience

Lack of experience in a particular role or industry should never discourage you from applying. Although you may not tick all the criteria boxes, you still have transferable skills and unique work experiences to showcase.

Moreover, ongoing talent shortages are prompting employees to reconsider their hiring criteria, plus invest more in new hire training and upskilling. Four in five companies now struggle to fill in open vacancies, which is the highest number in the past 17 years. 

So take your chances and apply even if you don’t have sufficient work experience. 

Personal Statement Example with No Relevant Work Experience 

Former front-desk hotel employee, looking for an opportunity to leverage strong service orientation and organizational skills in new roles (Customer Success or Customer Support). Familiarity with appointment booking software, digital chat apps, and CRM software. With my strong commitment to personal growth and my adaptable nature, I believe I could be a valuable asset to customer-centric teams.  

Personal Statement Example with No Industry Experience 

Self-starter with a BA degree in Communication and experience in corporate event management seeking a transition to music festival management. Experienced in organizing off-site events for 100+ people (including location scouting and travel coordination). I thrive in fast-paced environments and am eager to build a strong network of new partners. 

Discover even more personal statements from our collection of CV examples . 

CV Personal Statement For A Career Change

Career change is a big decision, but it can lead to a more fulfilling professional life. Besides, you’re not completely starting anew. Many of the hard and soft skills are quite universal. There is any number of different jobs that need the same set of skills that you have developed, so always try to lead with these and use real-life examples of your experience.

Career Change Personal Statement Example:

Working for the past 10 years as a regional sales manager has allowed me to develop keen skills in building strong working relationships and lucrative networks. Communication skills I developed during my time at my current employer enabled me to win vital contract wins that increased sales revenue by 20% over three years. I am now ready to take on a new challenge and want to work in the charity sector so that I can use my skills to give something back for the direct benefit of others.

How To Write A Strong Personal Statement for a CV 

An effective personal statement summarizes your skills and experience in a relevant way i.e., it indicates how you can be of help to the employer. 

In short, a compelling CV personal statement: 

• Lists your most marketable skills and qualifications 
• Highlights your industry knowledge and work experiences 
• Mirrors some of the key phrases, used in the job description 

And here’s how to write a personal statement that makes a mark.

1. Review the Job Description Once Again 

As you go through the role description, pay attention to the words, used by the employer, to describe the candidate’s requirements, duties, and personality. Keep those in the back of your head. 

These are the keywords you’d want to use all around your CV — in the personal statement, work experience, education, and skills areas. 

2. Do a Mental Tally of Your Skills 

Try to remember the times in your previous work roles when you accomplished notable objectives, went above and beyond expectations , or otherwise did better than your peers.  

Note down everything that springs to mind including your years of experience in a similar role, challenges you took on and the positive results achieved, new projects you kick-started – anything that has close relevance to this new position.

3. Make a Draft Personal Statement 

Write down a sample personal statement. Don’t worry about the length – just put as many details as you’d like on paper. Once you’re done, revisit the job description. See how your personal statement compares to the description. Does it paint a picture of someone who would fit the role? 

4. Edit for Clarity and Briefity 

A good CV personal statement shouldn’t be longer than 3-4 sentences. Take a critical look at your draft version and condense it to the bare essentials: 2-3 main skills, a major accomplishment, and a note on your motivation and/or personal traits. 

Other things that don’t belong in your personal statement are:

• Explanation of employment gaps or present unemployment status 
• Information about hobbies or personal interest 
• Any mention of references or recommendations 
• Irrelevant skills or work experiences 

Want to stand out even more? Add a persuasive opening statement that highlights your strengths as a candidate. 

A compelling personal statement can be the key between your CV making the ‘yes’ pile or the reject bin. Take some time to get your statement right and always write a new one for each job you apply for by mirroring the employer’s language. 

Finally, to give your CV a polishing touch, try out one of our fancy, but free CV templates , coming in multiple styles: professional, modern, simple, and creative!

Elena runs content operations at Freesumes since 2017. She works closely with copywriters, designers, and invited career experts to ensure that all content meets our highest editorial standards. Up to date, she wrote over 200 career-related pieces around resume writing, career advice... more

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