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A campaign was launched to encourage students acquiring their GCSE grades to start developing their talents and gather experiences in order for them to have the edge in university and employment applications in the future. York St. John University’ Standout’s goal is to persuade 16-year-old students to start thinking about how they are going to improve their personal statements and their CVs.

They warned that universities might pay no attention to applicants that were unsuccessful in expressing their passion and organizational skills, even if they are young and talented. York St. John has made a support material package that may facilitate the construction of the students Ucas (Universities and Colleges Admission Service) application forms.

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The Vice Chancellor of York St John University vice chancellor Professor David Fleming 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, organization, 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.”

York St. John students openly support this campaign.