Apprenticeship glossary

STAR method

What does STAR method mean?

A way to answer 'give an example' questions: describe the Situation, the Task, the Action you took and the Result.

Find out more

Guide Cover letters and application questions How to write a cover letter that sounds like you, and strong answers to written application questions, using official careers advice and real examples from employers we've researched. Applies to: All of the UK
Cover letter
A short letter, usually three to five paragraphs, sent with an application to explain why you want the job and what you'd bring. Write a new one for every application.
Competency question
An interview or application question asking for an example of something you've done, like 'Tell me about a time you worked in a team'. The STAR method helps you answer.
Store manager
The person who runs a shop, its team and its results. Lidl's and M&S's retail programmes are designed to train future store managers.
Strengths-based interview
An interview that focuses on what you enjoy and are naturally good at, rather than what you've done before. There are no wrong answers, so be honest.
Student loan (Plan 5)
The loan system for new university students in England. You repay 9% of your income over £25,000 a year, and anything left is written off after 40 years. Apprentices don't need one, because they don't pay tuition fees.
Supply chain
Everything involved in getting products from suppliers to customers, from buying materials to delivery.

Definitions are our own plain-English summaries. Where we give figures, they come from the official sources listed on the linked guide or profile. Rules can change, so check the official source before you make decisions.