Help with a Writing Personal Statement With thanks to Abbey Grange High School who provided these notes

Writing Personal Statements A personal statement is a chance to reflect on what you have achieved and learnt. A chance to say what is special about you. It is used on Post 16 applications to school, college or employment. The following slides show a suggestion of what topics should be covered within your personal statement

Writing Personal Statements Introduction - brief background about yourself – for example: “I am a student in Year 11 at …… School and my target grades for GCSE’s are mainly C’s and D’s. I am hoping to go on to do a course in beauty therapies “I am a student in Year 11 at ….. School and my target grades for GCSE’s are all A’s and A*’s. I am hoping to go on to do A-levels in possibly Art, Economics, Music and Geography.

Writing Personal Statements Involvement in School Life – for example: – Sports teams – Drama – Music – Organising events – Assist at open evenings – School magazine – Environmental projects – Take part in school trips

Writing Personal Statements Interests and Hobbies – for example: –Playing or watching sport –Drama classes –Walking –Reading –Charity work –Computer games –Fishing –Keeping fit

Writing Personal Statements Positions of Responsibility – for example: –Team captain –Form representative –School council member –Role within any other school group –Member of any organising committee –Assist with any younger youth group e.g. scouts

Writing Personal Statements Other Qualifications/Certificates/Awards – for example: –Music awards e.g. grade 3 piano –Sports awards/trophies –Drama examinations –Queen’s Scout Award –Work placement awards

Writing Personal Statements Work Experience/Part Time Work – for example: –What you did in year 10 –Babysitting –Paper round –Other part time employment –All of these can contribute to skills acquired or personal qualities e.g. responsibility

Writing Personal Statements “Something Extra” / Achievements you’re most proud of ! – for example: –Involved in voluntary work –Involved in charity fundraising –Organised a major event –Gained outstanding sporting, music or drama achievements –Helped out as a mentor/youth worker with younger children –Managed a special achievement like running a marathon or the 3 peaks walk

Writing Personal Statements Personal Qualities – for example: –Reliable –Responsible –Hardworking –Well organised –Able to meet deadlines –Sociable –Good sense of humour –Caring and helpful –Honest –Helpful