How to ace your apprenticeship application with a stand-out CV

Georgia Williamson

Level 6 Digital Marketing Apprentice, Youth Employment UK

Whether you’re starting your career, changing industries or climbing the career ladder, an apprenticeship is a great way to gain a qualification and valuable experience.

Along with studying, you will also be employed, which is why you will need a curriculum vitae (CV) to apply. It shows off your transferable skills, the qualifications you already have and why you are interested. Any CV needs to include a cover letter, personal statement and information about your education, skills and experience. Let’s explore how to get your CV ready for an apprenticeship application:

Tailor your apprenticeship CV

If you are applying for more than one apprenticeship, make sure you tailor your CV. Even if you are applying for apprenticeships in the same industry, the skills and experiences expected by the employer may differ.

Take a look at each job description, find out what essential and desired skills and experiences they are looking for and adjust your CV. You do not need to rewrite the whole CV for each application; you can show off a key skill or trait that will make you shine, and highlight what you can bring to each company.

Find out what essential and desired
skills and experiences they are
looking for and adjust your CV.

Show you can balance your time

You will spend your time working and studying, spending 20% of your time completing off-the-job training. It can be a lot of work, which is why managing your time is essential. You can highlight your grades and achievements and evidence of successful time management. If you do not have work experience, your ability to study while juggling other commitments such as clubs, hobbies or volunteering could be a good example.

Highlight your passion

Your interest in the apprenticeship is important, and you will need to be enthusiastic about your learning. In your cover letter and personal summary, include a sentence that shows you are passionate about your development in the industry.