What is a CV?
A CV is a document that gives employers an overview of your skills, experience, qualifications, and achievements. It is usually the first thing an employer reads when deciding whether to invite you to an interview.
How long should my CV be?
Most CVs should be no more than two pages long. Focus on the information that is most relevant to the role you are applying for.
I’ve never had a job. What can I put on my CV?
Many learners worry about this, but employers don’t just value paid work experience. You can include:
- Volunteering
- Courses and qualifications
- Caring responsibilities
- College projects
- Community involvement
- Hobbies and achievements
- Transferable skills gained through everyday life
All of these can demonstrate valuable skills and experience.
What are transferable skills?
Transferable skills are skills you can use in different jobs and situations.
Examples include:
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Organisation
- Customer service
- Time management
- Leadership
- IT skills
These skills can come from work, study, volunteering, or personal experiences.
Should I include volunteering on my CV?
Yes. Volunteering can be included alongside paid employment and can demonstrate valuable skills, commitment, and experience to employers.
What is a personal statement, and do I need one?
A personal statement is a short introduction that explains:
- Who you are
- Your strengths
- Recent learning or experience
- Your future goals
A personal statement is recommended. Try to keep it brief and focused.
Should I include my full address, date of birth or a photo?
No. UK employers generally do not expect these details on a CV.
Include:
- Your name
- Town or city
- Email address
- Phone number
Avoid including:
- Full home address
- Date of birth
- Marital status
- Photographs
How can I make my CV stand out?
To create a strong CV:
- Tailor it to the job you’re applying for
- Use clear headings
- Highlight relevant skills and achievements
- Use bullet points
- Keep formatting simple and professional
- Check spelling and grammar carefully
A clear, targeted CV is often more effective than a complicated design.
What if I am changing careers?
Focus on your transferable skills and explain how your existing experience relates to the new role or sector. Many employers value life experience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.
What if I have gaps in my employment history?
Employment gaps are common and nothing to be embarrassed about. You can briefly explain periods spent:
- Studying
- Caring for family
- Volunteering
- Managing health conditions
- Looking after personal responsibilities
Where appropriate, focus on the skills and experience you gained during this time.
English is not my first language. Can I still get help with my CV?
Absolutely. We provide inclusive careers support and can offer guidance for ESOL learners. We can help you identify your skills, improve your CV, and understand UK recruitment processes.
I have a disability or additional support need. Can I receive help?
Yes. Our Careers and Progression service is committed to providing accessible support. We can discuss reasonable adjustments, signpost relevant services, and help you understand your rights when applying for jobs.
How often should I update my CV?
You should update your CV whenever you:
- Complete a course
- Gain a qualification
- Start or finish a job
- Complete volunteering
- Develop new skills
- Change career goals
Keeping your CV up to date makes applying for opportunities much easier.
Can someone check my CV before I apply for jobs?
Yes. We can provide feedback and guidance to help strengthen your CV and improve your job applications during drop-in hours.
How do I book CV support?
You can contact the Careers and Progression Team for one-to-one support:
Email: robyn.dawes@fircroft.ac.uk
Phone: 07984 444750
We can support you with CV writing, job applications, interview preparation, volunteering opportunities, further study, and career planning.
Example CV
Take a look at our example CV to see what a strong CV looks like. It shows you how to organise your information and present your skills clearly to employers. In this example, Charlie Smith is a fictional learner studying at Fircroft College who is hoping to start a career in the green sector.
Template CV
Why not create your own CV? Download our editable CV template and use it as a starting point. Simply add your own skills, experience, and qualifications to build a CV that’s right for you.
Further Support
How to write a CV | National Careers Service
Job application support – Nottingham Trent University
How to create a CV | Step-by-step guide | The King’s Trust
How to write your CV | Civil Service Careers – if you are thinking about a job in the civil service
Help with your CV and job applications | Young Women’s Trust
