Students warned to start building life skills

York St John University’s Standout initiative aims to get 16-year-olds to think about how they can improve the personal statement section of their CV to set them apart.

They warn many talented young people could miss out on their chosen university because they have failed to show how their personal interests demonstrate passion, commitment and organisational skills.

Now the university has developed a package of support material to help young people make the most of hobbies, part- time jobs and voluntary work on their CV and in the personal statement of their Universities and Colleges Admission Service (Ucas) application forms.

Schools and youth groups are also being invited to a series of workshops being held in Hull, Leeds, Newcastle, Nottingham and Sheffield over the next two months.

Professor David Fleming, vice chancellor of York St John University, said: “Academic success is very important but young people often overlook the skills gained from out of school activities that help them to stand out.

“Despite fee increases there will be high competition for university places next year and we expect many applications for each place. Five key qualities that universities and employers look for in their recruits are initiative, team-work, organisation, passion and effective communication.

“A student who helps their local theatre group with stage design can demonstrate these skills. Of course academic achievement is a requirement but someone who gets up every Saturday to help others regardless of the weather demonstrates to us that they have the determination and right attitude to succeed at university.”

The campaign has been by backed by students who have just completed their final year at York St John.

Lewis Newton, 23, from Rotherham, is about to spend a year teaching in Austria through a British Council placement after studying for a degree in primary education at the university.

He said he hoped this would set him apart when he returns to the UK to find work next year.

“Your personal statement is what you use to sell yourself to the university so you need to show that you are passionate about the subject you’re applying for.

“I knew that if I wanted to do teaching I would need to show that I was enthusiastic and committed to a career as a teacher.

“When I was in sixth form I went into schools and did quite a lot of voluntary work on things like sports days and helping out at open afternoons.

“This gave me the opportunity to see what it was like working with children and observe teachers from a different perspective.

“Not only did it help me decide that teaching was what I wanted to do but it gave me plenty to draw on in my personal statement – and a head start when I got to university.”

Counselling studies graduate Amy Charlton, from Leeds, said: “There are lots of things you can do to build up your skills and experience while still at school.

“The English department at my school ran a dyslexic class and I volunteered my time to do a training course on how to help children with dyslexia to read and write.

“It really helped to boost my personal statement and CV.

“Even if there are no opportunities at school, voluntary organisations are always looking for people who are eager to get some experience – so put yourself forward to help out.”