How to support your students making an apprenticeship application

Apprenticeships are more competitive than ever, so supporting young people with how to write winning applications will stand them in good stead.  

With National Apprenticeship Week just around the corner in February 2025, traditionally many organisations will choose this time of year to advertise the apprenticeships they have on offer.  

Five top tips to share with your students

1. Do your research
   If you want to impress, you need to show you’ve done research into the role and the company but make it specific and relevant. It’s important an applicant doesn’t just memorise the date the company started or who the founder is. What employers want to know is how the company aligns to your interests, values and goals, and vice versa.
2. Make your application specific
   Be sure to tailor your application to the role you are applying for. Act like a detective and pick out key words and competencies which are important to the employer, and then tailor your application accordingly. Pick out specific examples and skills you have which are relevant and avoid using generic statements like ‘good team player’ with no examples to back it up. 
3. Remember it is competitive 
   Apprenticeships are not the easy alternative to university, they require equal amounts of effort and are highly competitive. Why should that employer pick you rather than someone else? Keep this in mind as you complete your application and fill it with examples of how you have completed similar activities or used the same skills they’re asking for. It’s not enough to say you’ve done those things, give examples and talk about the value you added. 
4. Follow the instructions
   It’s always good to have a winning CV to hand in case an employer wants it but if they want you to fill out an application, write a personal statement, or send a video, follow those instructions.  And if they say you can contact them in advance to discuss the role, it’s always a good idea to do that.  They’ll remember you when you do apply, and you’ll get a feel of what’s really important to them in an application.
5. Tell a story
   Whether it’s writing a cover letter or crafting a personal statement, tell that employer the story of you.  Talk about your journey so far, what relevant activities you like doing and why your experiences fit their apprentice position. The employer will be keen to find out what you can bring to the role.

• Share the latest guide on apprenticeships with parents.
• The new application apprenticeship guides are a great starting point for your students considering applying.
• Your students can find apprenticeship vacancies and sign up to receive relevant matches in their UCAS Hub.

The UCAS CV builder is designed to help your students create stand-out, professional CVs that showcase their skills, experience, and achievements.

Perfect for job, internship, or apprenticeship applications, this tool provides step-by-step guidance to craft polished CVs that make an impact.

Find out more