Your CV is your first impression and we want it to land with impact. Whether you’re applying for flexible nursery shifts or a permanent role, here are 12 things that don’t need to be there.
Think of it as a tidy-up checklist before you hit send:
1. Jobs that don’t fit
That summer stint scooping ice cream? Lovely but not relevant – leave out the detail and stick to giving dates only. Expand only those role that show off your childcare or teamwork skills.
2. Irrelevant qualifications
Stick to qualifications that will support your application, keep it current and focused on the role you’re applying for.
3. Your age or date of birth
Not needed and best left out to avoid bias. Let your experience do the talking.
4. Full home address
Postcode and town are plenty. No need to include your full street details until you are moving forward with an application.
5. A profile photo
Unless you’re applying for a role that requires a picture, skip the selfie. It’s not a standard requirement in UK CVs.
6. “I” and “My”
CVs work best without personal pronouns. Instead of “I supported children,” go with “Supported children in early years settings.”
7. Funky email handles
Keep it professional. If your email includes nicknames or numbers, consider switching to something simple like firstname.lastname@gmail.com.
8. Duties without impact
Don’t just list tasks, show what you achieved. “Managed rotas” becomes “Improved rota system to reduce shift gaps.”
9. Salary expectations
Save this for later. It’s not a CV thing.
10. Random hobbies
Love baking or hiking? Great! But only include hobbies if they show off teamwork, creativity or leadership.
11. References
You don’t need to write “References available on request.” Employers will ask when they’re ready.
12. Over-the-top formatting
Skip the glitter fonts and rainbow colours. Clean, clear and easy-to-read wins every time.
Once you’ve cracked these basics your polished CV will shine among others in the recruiters inbox. Good luck with your application from the KiddyKare team!
Author: Jodi Walden
