CV Template UK (2026)
Use this simple UK CV template layout to structure your CV properly — with a formatted example you can follow. When you’re ready, build it instantly in the CV builder (no subscriptions).
Clean formatting
Clear headings, bullet points, easy to scan.
UK-friendly structure
Personal statement, experience, education, skills.
What a UK CV template should include
A strong UK CV template is simple and consistent. Recruiters scan quickly — so your structure matters more than design. Here’s the core layout most UK employers expect.
1) Header
Your name, phone number, email, town/city (not full address), and optional LinkedIn.
2) Personal statement
A short, tailored intro (3–5 lines). Focus on role fit + strengths.
3) Work experience
Latest first. Use bullet points with impact (what you did + results).
4) Education
Schools/college, qualifications, and dates. Keep it relevant and clean.
5) Skills
A short skills list tailored to the job advert. Avoid generic fluff.
6) Optional sections
Certifications, volunteering, licences, or interests (only if they add value).
Formatted UK CV template example
This is a clean, UK-friendly CV layout. You can follow the structure exactly — then build it instantly in the CV builder.
Example layout (replace with your details)
UK CV Template (Clean)
YOUR NAME Town/City • 07xxx xxxxxx • you@email.com • LinkedIn (optional) PERSONAL STATEMENT Reliable and hardworking [job title/target role] with experience in [industry/skills]. Known for [strength 1] and [strength 2]. Looking to bring strong work ethic and attention to detail to [company/role]. KEY SKILLS • Skill 1 (relevant to the job) • Skill 2 • Skill 3 • Skill 4 • Skill 5 • Skill 6 WORK EXPERIENCE Job Title — Company Name (Town/City) | Month YYYY – Month YYYY • Bullet point describing responsibility + outcome (numbers if possible) • Bullet point describing responsibility + outcome • Bullet point describing responsibility + outcome Job Title — Company Name (Town/City) | Month YYYY – Month YYYY • Bullet point describing responsibility + outcome • Bullet point describing responsibility + outcome EDUCATION Qualification — School/College | Year • Key subject(s) / grade(s) (optional) CERTIFICATIONS / LICENCES (optional) • Forklift / SIA / First Aid / Driving Licence (only if relevant) REFERENCES Available on request
Tip: Keep the layout simple and focus on strong bullet points. If you want help writing a personal statement, use our examples page.
Simple CV template (minimal layout)
If you want the simplest possible structure, use: header → personal statement → experience → education → skills. Keep it clean, and only include what helps you get interviews.
Best for
Entry-level roles, retail, warehouse, hospitality, admin, and most general jobs.
Avoid
Over-designed templates, heavy graphics, and long paragraphs.
UK CV template with no experience
If you don’t have work experience yet, don’t panic. Keep the same structure, but move skills and education higher, and include volunteering, projects, or school achievements.
What to include instead
- • School projects and responsibilities
- • Volunteering or helping family business
- • Clubs, sports, leadership, achievements
- • Short skills list matched to the role
Keep it strong
- • Use action verbs in bullet points
- • Show reliability, teamwork, and effort
- • Keep it to one page
- • Tailor the personal statement
Common UK CV template mistakes
Too much design
Heavy graphics can reduce readability. Keep it clean and professional.
No results
Add outcomes: speed, accuracy, targets, improvements, praise, reliability.
Long paragraphs
Bullet points scan better. Keep each point 1–2 lines.
Not tailored
Match your statement + skills to the job advert (even small changes help).
Build your UK CV using this template
Use the template structure above, and turn it into a clean CV in minutes. No subscriptions — export when you’re happy.
FAQ
What is the best CV template in the UK?
The best UK CV template is a clean, reverse-chronological layout with clear headings, bullet points, and simple formatting. Aim for 1 page (most roles) or 2 pages (senior/technical), and prioritise results and responsibilities.
Should I use a fancy design CV template?
Usually no. Most UK employers and recruiters prefer simple, readable templates. Fancy graphics can distract and may not pass well through ATS (applicant tracking systems). Use clean sections, consistent spacing, and clear bullet points.
What sections should a UK CV include?
Typical UK CV sections are: Name + contact details, personal statement, work experience, education, skills, and optional sections like certifications, volunteering, or interests (if relevant).
How long should a CV be in the UK?
Most UK CVs should be 1 page. 2 pages is common for more experienced candidates, technical roles, or when you have multiple relevant positions to include.
Do I need a cover letter with my CV?
Often yes. A short, tailored cover letter can increase your chances — especially for competitive roles. You can generate a free cover letter on CVCraft and match it to your CV.