CV Tips for School Leavers — How to Get Your First Job in 2026
Your School Leaver CV Structure
As a school leaver, you likely don't have much work experience — and that's fine. Your CV should lead with education, then bring in any part-time work, volunteering, or extracurricular activities that show the skills employers want.
Contact Details
Full name, phone, email, and location. Create a professional email address if you don't have one (firstname.lastname@gmail.com).
Profile Summary
2-3 sentences: what you've just completed (e.g. A-levels), what type of work you're looking for, and what makes you reliable and motivated.
Education
List your most recent school/sixth form first. Include: institution name, dates, and qualifications with grades (GCSEs Grade C+ and above, all A-level results).
Work Experience
Any part-time work, Saturday jobs, holiday work, or work experience counts. Even if it's just 2 weeks, include it.
Activities & Responsibilities
Sports teams, music groups, Duke of Edinburgh, school council, prefect roles — all evidence of skills and reliability.
What Employers Want From School Leavers
Employers hiring school leavers are not expecting polished professionals. They want to see enthusiasm, reliability, and coachability. Show up on time, communicate clearly, and take direction well — and you'll get hired.
Your First CV Is One Click Away
Our school leaver CV template is free to edit and download as PDF — no experience needed to get started.