At Suffolk New College, our ePASS programme helps learners develop the skills employers value most, including communication, teamwork, leadership, self-management and confidence. These are transferable skills that can support success in work, apprenticeships, university and everyday life.
This Month’s ePASS Focus: Stand Out From The Crowd
Employers often tell us that attitude, motivation and confidence are just as important as qualifications. ePASS encourages learners to recognise their strengths and communicate them effectively.
10-Minute Future Planning Activity
What Are You Proud Of?
Spend 10 minutes discussing this with family or friends:
- What achievement are you most proud of from the last year?
- What skill helped you achieve it?
- How could that skill help you in a future career?
Examples:
- Completing a project = Organisation
- Helping a friend = Communication
- Learning a new skill = Motivation
- Balancing studies and hobbies = Time Management
Challenge: Write down three strengths and keep them somewhere visible.
CV Tip of the Month
Don’t Just List Skills. Prove Them! Employers prefer evidence rather than claims.
Instead of writing:
“Good team player”
Try:
“I worked collaboratively with four classmates to organise a fundraising event that raised £250 for charity.”
Use the formula: Skill + Example + Result
This helps employers understand what you can actually do.
Conversation Starter for home:
“What skill do you think will be most important in the workplace in 2035 and why?”
There are no right or wrong answers. The aim is to encourage discussion about future careers, emerging industries and personal development.
Labour Market Insight
Many employers are increasingly looking for candidates who can demonstrate strong soft skills alongside technical knowledge. Skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability and self-management are consistently valued across sectors.
The good news?
These skills can be developed every day through:
- Part-time work
- Volunteering
- College projects
- Sports and hobbies
- Caring responsibilities
- Community activities
Every experience counts.