UK Model CV: Examples, Template & Format for Modelling

It takes a lot more than striking looks to become a successful model—hard work, discipline, high resistance to stress and criticism, and a goal-oriented mindset are just the start of the long, long list. And then there’s all that competition to deal with for every opportunity! 

Since you’re here, though, it’s safe to assume that none of the above discourages you from following your dream. And that’s a good thing—modelling wouldn’t be the same if it didn’t require determination and effort. Let’s go over the process of writing a high-end model CV to help you on your way. 

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Model CV Sample

Now you know what a professional CV should look like, complete with a couple of optional CV sections. Now, let’s take it one step at a time—here’s how to write a CV, specifically a model CV, of your own: 

1. Include a striking personal statement on your model CV

Sure, you could go straight into your experience, but for best results, start your CV with an eye-catching introduction. Often called a CV personal statement or profile paragraph, it should be between 2 and 4 sentences long and composed only of relevant information. Its purpose is to provide the reader with a set of highlights from your application. 

Write a CV summary that answers at least some of these questions: 

• Who are you? What type and extent of experience do you have? You can share your body type and measurements here—the reader will be looking for this information, so it makes sense to open with it. 

• What can you offer to the employer? Mention critical skills that make you stand out and, if you want, state how you would use them to the new employer’s benefit. The idea is to focus on what the agency gets from hiring you, not vice versa. 

• What are some of your most significant accomplishments? Outline some of your proudest modelling achievements, such as collaboration with a luxury brand, many completed projects, excellent feedback or reviews, etc. 

What you put in the final point—achievements—will depend on your experience level. It'll be easy if you’ve worked as a model before, but you’ll need to get a bit more creative as a newcomer. Think of transferable skills you can use to your advantage, such as adaptability or teamwork, and lean on accomplishments from personal projects if need be. 

Model CV: personal statement example

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2. Showcase your work experience

Next comes your work experience CV section, where you’ll outline your career so far. Along with your portfolio, this is likely the most essential part of your application, so it’s worth some extra time to perfect it. 

First things first, though—start by outlining your employment history. Open with your current or most recent job, then list previous ones. For each entry, you’ll need your job title, the name and location of the company, and time frames. Months and years will be enough; you don’t necessarily need the exact dates. 

For each job, write up to 6 bullet points, but skip duties and responsibilities—instead, focus on what you achieved and how you showed your skills. Be specific in your CV achievement statements, starting with a verb and including plenty of numbers to impact your writing. 

As you think about which parts of your experience to highlight, use the job advertisement to guide you, if there is one. The ad likely mentions specific skills and types of experience the agency or company is after, which should appear on your CV. Targeting your application to each employer like this will help you stand out. 

Work experience on a model CV—UK example

3. Make the most of your education

Every CV should include an education section—the information you include there will depend on your work experience. 

Suppose you have a few years of modelling experience that shows relevant skills. In that case, you can limit your education section to the bare minimum: an outline of your schooling, including where and when you completed each stage. If you have tertiary education, such as an NVQ or a uni degree, then mentioning GCSEs and A-levels is not obligatory. 

However, for aspiring models writing a CV with no experience in the industry, it’s often a good idea to expand the education section with added details. This isn’t just to bulk out your CV, though—the point is to use your schooling and extracurricular activities on your CV to highlight specific skills. 

You can rely on coursework, completed projects, clubs and meetings you attended, or any other experience that can work to your advantage. Here’s an example from an entry-level candidate: 

Model CV education example

4. Describe your most relevant modelling skills

Every part of your CV so far is based on relevant skills. Time to also give them a section of their own. 

Your CV skills section should include the most essential abilities, ideally those mentioned in the ‘requirements’ part of the job ad. For each skill, include a short sentence providing some context. Which parts of your experience point to this skill? When have you developed or used it? What do you understand each skill to mean? 

Take a look at this example model CV skills section: 

Model CV skills—UK example

5. Provide additional information in optional sections

What else can you share with the recruiter that proves you’d be a great asset to their agency or team? What additional experience or qualities would make you stand out? That’s what optional CV sections are for—highlighting your individuality.

Popular optional sections include foreign language skills, certifications, volunteering experience, and hobbies. If you decide to list your interests on a CV, make sure they’re in some way relevant to your modelling career. If they aren’t, you’re better off skipping this section altogether. 

You can also think outside the box and add a custom section to your CV if that’s what’s necessary to make the most of your application. For example, suppose you’ve worked with several big brands or with well-known photographers. In that case, you can add a separate section with a clear heading (e.g., Brands and Collaborations) and list them there, with a sentence against each describing your experience. 

Additional sections on a model CV

6. Write a model cover letter to complete your application

With your portfolio ready and your CV virtually perfect, there’s just one more step before you’re ready to apply: writing a great cover letter. Make sure to familiarise yourself with proper cover letter formatting—it should look like a formal, business-style letter with a professional header. 

Address the cover letter directly to the person heading recruitment, if possible, and open with an achievement to hook the reader’s interest. Use the body of the letter to draw their attention to your most relevant strengths, proving you’re a suitable candidate for the role. End your cover letter on an offer to discuss your skills further and a complimentary close (Best regards or Yours sincerely). 

7. Keep these CV formatting and content tips in mind

Your model CV should be visually pleasing, filled with achievements, and easy to read. Whether you’re using a CV template or building your document from scratch, these final CV tips will come in helpful: 

• Add your details to your CV in an eye-catching header or sidebar. Under your contact information, make sure to include a link to your online modelling portfolio. Avoid including unnecessary details such as your exact address.
• Use a CV font that’s easy to read at a glance. Go with something that wouldn’t look out of place in a high-end magazine: Arial, Helvetica, Georgia, or Calibri will do just fine. 
• Remember that a CV should be one page in most cases. Longer CVs are only appropriate if you have 10+ years of highly relevant experience, and your portfolio will speak for itself. 
• Go for a reverse-chronological CV format. Remember to start each section with a heading. Headings give your CV a clear structure and make it easier to navigate. For the same reason, include some white space around each section of your CV layout.

And that’s all there is to it! If all goes well, you should be ready for interviews and auditions in no time. 

You don’t have to be a CV writing expert. In the LiveCareer CV builder you’ll find ready-made content for every industry and position, which you can then add with a single click.

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Thanks for reading. Do you have any questions about writing your model CV? Did you run into any issues we haven’t covered? Perhaps you’re in a position to offer some advice of your own? Let’s chat in the comments section! 

How we review the content at LiveCareer

Our editorial team has reviewed this article for compliance with Livecareer’s editorial guidelines. It’s to ensure that our expert advice and recommendations are consistent across all our career guides and align with current CV and cover letter writing standards and trends. We’re trusted by over 10 million job seekers, supporting them on their way to finding their dream job. Each article is preceded by research and scrutiny to ensure our content responds to current market trends and demand.