choices

Making Applications

If you are applying to school, college, work based learning or a job read information below for tips and advice.

Applying to sixth form
Applying to college
Applying to work based learning
Applying for jobs
Forms and interviews
CVs

There is no rule to say that you cannot apply to more than one option if you are undecided. Just remember it is polite to let people know if you don't intend to take up your place as soon as you can so that they can offter your place to another applicant.

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Applying to sixth form

All High Schools

• produce a Sixth Form Prospectus with course details and information about the way the Sixth Form is run.
• hold a Sixth Form information evening where you can talk to teachers and other staff and ask questions.
• Each school has its own admissions system; they will advise you how to apply. Usually prospective students have an interview to discuss which courses they are planning to take.

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Applying to College

• College prospectuses give you a lot of information about courses and some departments also produce leaflets.
• Open days are held once or twice a year, they are usually advertised in the local papers. If you miss the open days, get in touch with the department you are interested in and arrange your own visit.
• You’ll need to complete the college application form available from the college or your local Connexions Centre. You can usually put down more then one choice of course on your application form if you wish.
• Some colleges then ask you to attend a pre course interview before meeting members of the department.

Colleges let you know as soon as they can whether or not you have been offered a place. If you are worried because you haven’t heard the result of an interview, then why not give them a ring?

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Applying to Work Based Learning

Your Personal Adviser will be able to tell you about work based learning opportunities in Northumberland (and some neighbouring areas), give you application forms and information about how to apply.

You may be given an appointment to see them in school if they know that this option interests you. Or go along and see them – in school or at your local Connexions Centre - to find out what is available to you.

You should hear directly from the Learning Provider about your interview time. Interviews take place in Connexions Centres or on the Learning Provider’s premises. Often you will have an interview with an employer as well as a Learning Provider, though not necessarily on the same day.

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Applying to jobs

• Some employers ask for a CV. If you don’t know what one is or don’t have an up to date one, ask your Personal Adviser for help, or call in at your local Connexions Centre.
• Find out as much as you can about the employer before the interview.
• Remember to take along your Progress File or Record of Achievement if you have one.

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Forms and interviews

Do your best with your form, use your neatest writing and get someone to check it over for you before you give it in. Check that you have filled in all the sections and have followed all the instructions. Try to read your form as if you were the person receiving it. What would you think?

Interviews

• Ask questions. Interviews are as much about you finding out about the job/placement as the employer/Learning Provider finding out about you.
• Try and look smart but comfortable.
• Prepare for the kinds of questions that you expect to be asked – 'Why do you want to do this course/job?' is the most common. Write down what you’d like to say if it helps.
• Take your Progress File or Record of Achievement with you.

Most interviewers are not trying to trick you or make you feel uncomfortable. They want to see you at your best and realise that you may not have had any interviews before – a few nerves are only natural, but don’t worry too much!

Don’t worry – your Personal Adviser will be pleased to help you.  

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CVs

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a summary of your achievements at school, college and work. Use it to sell yourself and your skills and experience.

• Keep it short – 1-2 sides of A4.
• Word process it using a standard font and clearly divide sections.
• Include personal details (name, address, phone number), your education and qualifications, relevant skills, experience and interests.
• Be positive.
• Be truthful.
• Include details of referees, but check with them first. Referees could include school (maybe a teacher) or someone you have worked for, if you have done work experience or have a part time job.
• Check spellings.
• Send a covering letter with your CV.
• Keep an electronic copy that you can adapt to the job you are applying for.

Use our CV template to help you get started.

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